The Local Spain

Why is the Spanish flag red and yellow? Wed, 05 Jun 2024 14:57:27 +0200 Naval history, 18th century fabrics and printing technology, dynasties and kingdoms. There's a lot of history in 'la rojigualda’, Spain's iconic red and yellow flag.

Why do homes in Spain not have mosquito screens? Mon, 12 Oct 2026 12:31:25 +0200 Have you ever wondered why mosquito or fly screens are not very common in houses in Spain? What's the reason behind this?

EXPLAINED: Why is Spain called Spain? Thu, 26 Sep 2024 09:47:09 +0200 You may have never stopped to think about it, but where does Spain - or España - get its name from?

How Spain celebrates its National Day (and why many aren't happy about it) Wed, 09 Oct 2019 09:00:00 +0200 Monday October 12th 2026 marks National Day in Spain, a day of celebrations and events across the country. But what's Spain's 'Día de la Hispanidad' all about and why do some critics want it banned?

Today in Spain: A roundup of the latest news on Monday Mon, 12 Oct 2026 10:05:46 +0200 Madrid prepares for National Day parades, four people die in traffic accidents since the start of the long weekend, hotel cleaners demand early retirement and more news from Spain this Monday October 12th.

Proposed EU budget cut back in search for Christmas deal Sun, 11 Oct 2026 17:17:41 +0200 Ireland, which holds the EU's rotating presidency, suggested Saturday slashing the bloc's next proposed budget by 140 billion euros ($155 billion), in a quest to bridge deep divisions and reach a deal by the end of the year.

Last Ceuta migrant camp removed ahead of Spanish king's visit Sun, 11 Oct 2026 12:30:33 +0200 Police on Sunday cleared the last major migrant encampment in Ceuta, two days before a visit by Spain's king and queen, AFP reporters at the scene and the interior ministry said.

What's different about Spain's new housing laws compared to the rejected ones? Thu, 08 Oct 2026 09:19:13 +0200 Following Parliament's dissolution after the PM called a snap election for November, the Spanish government has brought back two key housing bills but with changes, including extra restrictions on vulture funds and more financing for buyers.

Which regions in Spain will have a day off this year for National Day? Thu, 02 Oct 2025 10:32:09 +0200 Spain's National Day (October 12th) falls on a Monday this year, does this mean that everyone gets the day off?

Spanish PM begins election campaign overshadowed by housing protests Sat, 10 Oct 2026 09:25:49 +0200 Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez aimed to pull off another unlikely comeback as he began campaigning on Saturday for a snap vote dominated by housing protests that have shaken the country.

'The feeling of isolation is worse': Foreigners in Spain recount their loneliness Wed, 07 Oct 2026 12:30:19 +0200 Loneliness is a recurring theme in online groups for foreigners in Spain, a mental health issue which is almost taboo in a country known for being sociable. The Local spoke to a Spain-based therapist to find out why.

Seven reasons why autumn is the best season to visit or travel around Spain Wed, 06 Nov 2019 10:00:09 +0100 It may not feel like it just yet, but autumn is already underway. From festivals and wine to cooler temperatures, here are the reasons why it's the best season to travel to or around Spain.

Fiestas del Pilar: Everything to know about Zaragoza’s biggest celebration Fri, 09 Oct 2026 12:12:04 +0200 Zaragoza, the capital of Spain’s Aragón region, is gearing up to celebrate its most important festival, which coincides with Spanish National Day on October 12th. Here's what you can expect.

Spanish Word of the Day: 'Puente' Mon, 22 Oct 2018 10:34:21 +0200 If you live and work in Spain then this will undoubtedly be one of your favourite words!

The changes to Spain’s IRNR non-resident property tax in 2027 Fri, 09 Oct 2026 16:09:53 +0200 If you're a non-resident who owns a second home in Spain, you should know that from next year there will be some changes to the tax forms you file and their deadlines.

Bank of Spain raises 2026 growth forecast Fri, 09 Oct 2026 14:01:17 +0200 Spain's economy is set to grow faster than previously expected this year, the central bank said Friday, as the government heads into a snap general election on November 29th.

Which Spanish elections can foreigners vote in? Thu, 26 May 2022 10:04:08 +0200 Can you vote in Spanish elections if you aren’t Spanish? The short answer is yes, although only certain ones, and it depends on factors such as your nationality and residency status.

Madrid mourns evicted retiree, 'icon' of Spain housing protests Fri, 09 Oct 2026 09:57:30 +0200 Tens of thousands of mourners marched through Madrid on Thursday in tribute to a Spanish pensioner whose eviction sparked national housing protests that culminated in the calling of early elections.

What you should know about Spain's general strike in November Thu, 08 Oct 2026 13:54:37 +0200 Spurred by calls for housing reform and the high-profile eviction case of Maricarmen Abascal, Spanish unions have joined forces with tenants groups for the first general strike in Spain since 2012.

Spain’s far-right Vox unveils plans to privatise public pension system Thu, 08 Oct 2026 15:20:24 +0200 Under proposals by Spain's hard-right party and possible next coalition government member, pensioners would need a private top-up to their state pension.