Page 27 - (DK Eyewitness) Travel Guide - Spain

A POR TR AIT OF SP AIN  25

striking transformations in
modern Spain has been in the
birth rate, from one of the highest
in Europe, at 2.72 children for
every woman in 1975, to 1.49
children for every woman in 2016.
Catholicism is still a pervasive
influence over Spanish society,
although church attendance
among those under
the age of 35 has
been declining The windmills and castle above Consuegra, La Mancha
and now stands at
below 10 per cent. The Hollywood for audiences, and the actress
images of saints watch Penélope Cruz won an Oscar in 2009.
over some shops, bars The overall level of reading has risen,
and lorry drivers’ cabs. and contemporary literature has steadily
Church feast days gained a wider readership, with a number
are marked by of internationally recognised Spanish
Virgin of Guadalupe count less traditional names lining bookshop shelves. The per-
in Extremadura fiestas, which are forming arts have been restricted by a
enthu siastically lack of facilities, but major investments
maintained in modern Spain. have provided new venues, regional arts
centres and new symphony orchestras.
Sport and the Arts The country has produced many
Spanish cultural life has been remarkable opera singers, including
experiencing a renaissance. Spanish-made Montserrat Caballé, Plácido Domingo
films – notably those of cult directors and José Carreras. Spain has also excelled
Pedro Almodóvar and Alejandro Amenábar in design, particularly evident in the
– have been able to compete with interior furnishings shops of Barcelona.

Crowds in Barcelona browsing book stalls on Sant Jordi’s Day, in April, when it is customary to exchange literary gifts

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