How rural Spain spent its free time

In rural Spain, free time was scarce, and leisure was mostly confined to Sundays, winter evenings and festive days. People made the most of these moments to chat, sing, play cards, dance or attend pilgrimages and fairs.

The farming calendar

Sowing and harvesting shaped the year. During the busiest months, there was barely any rest; in winter, the long evenings were spent by the fire.

Evening gatherings

Neighbours would gather in a house or stable to spin thread, shell grain or simply chat. They told stories, sang and sometimes brought out a pack of cards. We explore this in how our grandparents entertained themselves.

Sundays and festivities

After Mass, the men went to the bar or social club, while families strolled around the square. We explain more in village social clubs and how people played games in village squares.

What remains

Migration to the cities emptied many villages, but summer card games, when those who left return, remain a tradition.