Exploring Barcelona Through Podcasts: A Cheeky Guide
If you think Barcelona is just sun, sea, and sangria, you need to look a little deeper. And guess what? Podcasts are your ticket to getting the insider scoop, faster than you can say “Tapas”! So, grab your headphones—this is going to get interesting!
Cover photo: Josbel A. Tinoco
The Popular Olympics Against Fascism
First things first, Barcelona isn’t your average city; it’s got a history packed with rebellion against oppression that would make Batman proud. While the Nazis were busy throwing a party in Berlin back in 1936, Barcelona organized the *Popular Olympics*. That’s right! Instead of gold medals, they had a hard-hitting message against fascism. Imagine being at a sporting event where the only thing being thrown was a middle finger at the regime!
Fast forward to July 2024—there’s a podcast documentary on the way called “La Fabrique de l’histoire.” It explores this almost mythical event and the fierce spirit of the Catalans. Who needs a boring history book when you can get all the juicy bits in an audio format? Listen here.
The Enigmatic Catalan Independence
Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: Catalan independence! Barcelona is like the friend who can’t stop talking about their complex identity crisis. In 2018, journalist Caroline Gillet decided to dive into this ongoing debate and, spoiler alert, she found people on both sides who could talk your ear off about nationalism and pride. Her podcast “Barcelona Laboratory” breaks down the nuances of the city’s ever-evolving identity. Talk about being caught in the middle of a soap opera! Listen here.
French Culture in Barcelona: Oui! Oui!
If you thought Barcelona was all about Spanish culture, think again. The French Institute in the city serves its baguette-loving clientele with a podcast channel that showcases everything from literary salons to café-philos insights. It’s like a leisurely stroll through a Parisian café, except you’re sipping your café con leche instead of an espresso. Listen here.
Literary Barcelona: A Bookworm’s Paradise
For the literature buffs, it’s time to rejoice! The likes of Pierre Ducrozet, Mathias Énard, and Javier Cercas leave their literary footprints across the pages of Barcelona. From Raval to Eixample, you’ll uncover tales that make you feel like you’ve wandered straight into a plot twist. Quite possibly, your next book recommendation fest could come straight out of this podcast. Listen here.
The Dark Side of the City: Spooky Stories!
If you’re the type that gets a kick out of spooky tales, the story of Enriqueta Martí, also known as the *Vampire of Barcelona*, is right up your alley. She turned Raval into her personal horror story playground in the late 19th century. Child kidnapping, murder—it’s almost like a plot from a cheap horror flick, but this one will send shivers down your spine! Listen here.
Equinox Podcasts: The Cherry on Top!
Lastly, don’t forget to check out Equinox Podcasts. You’ll find everything from success stories to interesting anecdotes about life in Barcelona. Whether you’re plotting your next adventure or just feeling a bit nostalgic, there’s something for everyone. Listen here for all episodes!
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Barcelona brims with vibrant culinary experiences, lively drinks, and an eclectic audio landscape. Whether you’re a resident of the Catalan capital or an aspiring expatriate, Equinox has curated a selection of podcasts to deepen your connection with this dynamic city.
Cover photo: Josbel A. Tinoco
Popular Olympics against fascism
One of the first aspects that sets Barcelona apart is its long-standing reputation as a bastion of alternative culture. This spirit dates back to 1936, when, in stark contrast to the Summer Olympic Games held in Nazi-occupied Berlin, rebellious Barcelona hosted the Popular Olympics. This event arose as an outspoken anti-fascist declaration, challenging the oppressive German regime, even as the city braced itself for attacks from Franco’s forces.
In July 2024, “Les nuits de France Culture” will air a documentary titled “La Fabrique de l’histoire,” originally recorded in 2000, exploring the captivating but ultimately thwarted history of these revolutionary games.
What is Catalan independence?
Catalan independence remains a heated subject in Barcelona, although the intensity of discourse has noticeably softened in recent years. In 2018, journalist Caroline Gillet ventured to Barcelona with France Inter to dissect and define the complexities of Catalan identity.
During a pivotal moment where loyalties were fervently divided between independence supporters and those advocating for national unity, she engaged with individuals from both camps, providing a richer understanding of Barcelona’s multifaceted identity. The outcome of her endeavor was the compelling documentary “Barcelona Laboratory,” which showcases the city as a significant hub of independence thought on a global scale.
Focus on French culture in Barcelona
The French Institute, dedicated to promoting French culture within Barcelona, boasts its own podcast channel. Offering a range of episodes from engaging literary discussions to thought-provoking café-philos, listeners are invited to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of the French community thriving in the city.
Literary Barcelona
Writers such as Pierre Ducrozet, Mathias Énard, Michèle Gazier, Daniel Vázquez Salles, Javier Cercas, and Rafael Argullol Murgadas feature prominently as they narrate the story of literary Barcelona across four engaging episodes.
This France Culture program journeys through various neighborhoods, from Raval to Eixample and Poblenou, while connecting literary giants like Buñuel and Genêt to the city that served as their muse.
The dark side of the city
No city is without its shadows, and Barcelona possesses its share. For those intrigued by tales of the macabre, the story of Enriqueta Martí, known as the vampire of Barcelona, is a chilling must-listen.
This notorious figure, who was a child kidnapper, pimp, and murderer, turned Raval into her domain at the close of the 19th century, and her grim legacy is further explored in this podcast by Le Coin du Crime.
Equinox Podcasts
In addition to the aforementioned, we highly recommend delving into Equinox podcasts, which are accessible across all major streaming platforms.
Explore success stories through “All roads lead to Barcelona,” enjoy a treasure trove of anecdotes in “The 1001 stories of Barcelona,” or take a literary escape in “Leaving it all to travel.”
All our podcasts can be listened to here
What are some must-listen podcasts about Barcelona’s literary scene?
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Literary Barcelona: A Bookworm’s Paradise
Barcelona’s literary scene is vibrant and varied, with authors like Pierre Ducrozet, Mathias Énard, and Javier Cercas leaving their indelible mark on the city. From the blossoming streets of Raval to the elegant avenues of Eixample, these writers weave tales that make the city come alive. For book lovers, there’s no better way to explore these literary routes than through curated podcasts. This auditory journey might just spark your next reading list! Listen here.
The Dark Side of the City: Spooky Stories!
If horror tales thrill you, dive into the chilling story of Enriqueta Martí, the infamous *Vampire of Barcelona*. During the late 19th century, she turned the Raval district into her own horror narrative, involving ghastly crimes that would make even seasoned horror writers shudder. This story is both unsettling and fascinating, a true testament to the darker tales lurking within Barcelona’s history. Listen here.
Equinox Podcasts: The Cherry on Top!
Lastly, be sure to check out Equinox Podcasts. They offer an extensive array of stories—from inspiring success tales to entertaining anecdotes about life in Barcelona. Whether planning your next getaway or simply reminiscing, Equinox has something for every listener in this dynamic city. Listen here for all episodes!
