Ghosts of Spain – Giles Tremlett
If you want to understand Spain and the Spanish – their quirks, culture, contradictions and passions, then Giles Tremlett’s comprehensive analysis is available on the Casa Uno bookshelf.
Running to some 450 pages, this is a substantial read. The book covers the aftermath of the Civil War and the scars that still run deep with many today. It discusses the political tensions that rage in some parts of the country that are seeking independence from Spain and provides some interesting food for thought. As an example the most vociferous and occasionally violent of these separatist regions is the Basque Country (autonomous community). In this region only approximately do 30% of the people speak the Basque language Euskera. Paradoxically, 80% of the Gallegos from the Galicia region of north west Spain speak their historic language and yet undoubtedly see themselves as Spaniards.
The countries passion for flamenco is covered in detail as is an apparent acceptance of easily recognised and gawdy lit brothels that litter the motorways of Spain. Our own local Scandalo even gets a mention.
This book will give you a very good understanding of Spain and may also excite you enough to visit many of the places mentioned. The book focuses on the 2 Spain’s that seem to have been ever present particularly since the Civil War.
A good read.
Other posts you may enjoy :

Favourite Places – The Lounge
The lounge is another part of the house that has undergone a significant transformation under new ownership. The room has been equipped with sufficient seating to accommodate a house full of guests, but it does

Bookshelf – The Creek
The Creek – LJ Ross If you are looking for a nice easy summer read then check out The Creek by LJ Ross on the Casa Uno Bookshelf. This book is undoubtedly a holiday book,

Spanish Steps No. 3 – Banderas, Almodóvar and Cruz
This picture features three people who have done much to put the Spanish film industry on the map. Like others in our Spanish steps series the original can be found in the house along with

Bookshelf – The Ghosts of Spain
Ghosts of Spain – Giles Tremlett If you want to understand Spain and the Spanish – their quirks, culture, contradictions and passions, then Giles Tremlett’s comprehensive analysis is available on the Casa Uno bookshelf. Running

Under New Management
We are delighted to have purchased Casa-Uno – a house that we have loved from afar for many years. While the house is already beautify we plan to make a few cosmetic changes to make

Spanish Steps No. 1 – Paco Peña
Visitors to Casa Uno can view our version of the Spanish Steps ! The staircase which runs from the indoor dining area feature a series of photo’s of significant Spanish people, places and events. Each