Updated Mar 24 2023
Of course flamenco originated in the south of Spain, so this art form, which combines dance, tap and song isn’t as popular in Barcelona or the rest of Catalunya as it is in some other regions of Spain. However, because of the great migration of flamenco from the South up to Catalunya in the second half of the 20th century, this style of dance and music established itself both in Barcelona and throughout the region of Catalunya. This is the reason why so many Catalans are fans of the art of flamenco today, declared an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO, and that even many well-known flamenco artists were born in Catalonia.
Although there are many theories and opinions surrounding the origin of flamenco, it’s likely that it started in some of the southern regions of Spain (for example Andalusia, Extremadura and Murcia) during the 18th century.
Often the association of “flamenco = gypsy community” is made, and although there are links between flamenco and the gypsies, it’s not a fair association at all, because the birth of flamenco was in fact the result of a fusion of cultures and traditions. The rhythms and music that were typical of a gypsy community mixed with those of the Andalusian culture, and those of other southern towns and villages, giving rise to the flamenco tradition. Many of the most well-known artists in the history of flamenco, and those who are famous nowadays, are from a gypsy background, but many others are “payos” (non-gypsies), so it’s accepted that the fusion between diverse cultures and traditions that created flamenco still exists today.
The best flamenco shows
Nowadays it’s possible to enjoy many flamenco shows in Barcelona, some of which take place in authentic flamenco ‘tablaos’ (small bars in which flamenco traditionally takes place), and some in venues that have a rich musical tradition, such as the Palau de la Música Catalana, or of great historical charm such as the Palau Dalmases. In spite of the fact that the vast majority of flamenco shows in Barcelona are aimed at tourists who want to see this true art form live, that’s not to say that the quality of these shows isn’t as high as you would expect – quite the opposite, in fact. Out of all the flamenco shows that Barcelona has to offer, below we’ve given you a list of some of the best, all of which are authentic and of good quality.
Details of the Flamenco show
Details of the Flamenco show
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Details of the Flamenco show
The vast majority of souvenir shops sell various articles that are related to flamenco, most of which being magnets and figurines. You’ll also be able to find flamenco dresses, especially for women, and all sorts of other articles, although you’ll find it difficult to find anything of good quality.
Therefore, if what you want is a simple typical flamenco gift and you don’t want to spend much money, we recommend you buy something in any of the many souvenir shops, whereas if you’re looking for dresses or accessories (castanets, fans, shoes, boots etc.) of better quality, we suggest visiting La Tienda de Flamenco Flora Albaicín (c/ street 3, Barcelona. tiendaflamenco.com). You could also go to the Atelier de Flamenco de Mercedes Mestre (c/ Pere Mitjà 69, Barcelona), who is a designer and stylist who, in her small shop, offers a wide range of high-quality flamenco dresses, accessories and articles. Another option is to go to one of the places that put on flamenco shows, as they often sell similar items.
Details of the Flamenco show
If flamenco is the product of a fusion of cultures and musical rhythms, the Catalan rumba is no less. This specific musical genre, whose birth goes back to Barcelona in the 1940s and 1950s, has traditional flamenco as its basis, but with a more upbeat rhythm and a sound reminiscent of the Cuban rumba, and even of Rock ‘n’ Roll.
There’s quite a major debate surrounding who actually created the Catalan rumba. Although the names of “El Pescaílla” or “Peret” are often quoted, actually it’s more plausible that these two well-renowned artists popularised what was until then a novel musical rhythm that some artists of gypsy origin started to play in the districts of El Raval and Gràcia.
If you’d like to experience Catalan rumba in Barcelona: La Rumbeta
Details of the Flamenco show
Details of the Flamenco show
The Feria de Abril (Seville Fair and literally “April fair”) is a celebration originating in Seville that takes place every year, with the idea of marking the start of spring. Because of the large Andalusian community in Barcelona, the city started organising its own Feria de Abril many years ago, and during the fair you can enjoy many musical performances, good flamenco, quality food and without doubt a lot of fun and entertainment. + info.
info abut the Catalonia’s April Fair in Barcelona.