Flamenco Barcelona
Flamenco is an Andalucian form of folk art, made up of cante jondo (melodramatic song), guitar and dancing. Its origins date back to the gypsies who entered Andalucia during the 15th Century. During this time anti-gypsy laws were in place, so their music and dance was performed and perfected in secret. It wasn't until the 19th Century that it began to flourish and become widely accepted, as it is today. The original origin of the gypsies was in Northern India, so the sounds and style of Flamenco probably echo those of ancient Indian music.

Flamenco is a beautiful dance to watch, with the dancers clothed in bright ruffled skirts and elegant matching shoes. The dances can vary from lively to slow and deliberate, and are extremely dramatic. The choreography often illustrates a story, so be sure to watch the facial expressions and hands of the dancers: these are tools they use to show the mood of their tale. Performers will also often shout out jaleo or words of encouragement.

If you will be in Barcelona during the Fiesta Nacional de Catalunya, you will be able to experience some of the best flamenco that the country has to offer. During all other times of the year, try Los Tarantos (Placa Reial 17). La Paloma (Carrer Tigre 27) offers salsa and tango music as well as classic Flamenco in its turn-of-the-century dance hall.