Travelers from all over the globe flock to Spain for delectable plates of fresh Mediterranean seafood, grilled potatoes with spicy bravas sauce and the world´s best jamón, all served in small portions known as tapas. Spain is so proud of its small bites of food that the country has asked UNESCO to protect the cuisine by declaring Spanish tapas an intangible cultural heritage.
The tradition of the Spanish tapa comes from the south of the country when Spaniards would sample a small plate of food paired with a glass of wine or beer. To prevent flies from getting into their drinks during the hot summers, diners would place their plate of food on top of their drinking glass, forming a lid, or in Spanish a tapa.
Over time, Spain´s style of eating evolved from this practice as many Spaniards consume small meals at more frequent hours throughout the day. The people of Spain identify so strongly with this tradition they are proposing international recognition and protection from UNESCO.
Spain´s Ministry of Culture and the Royal Academy of Gastronomy will formally present their case to UNESCO in hopes the cultural cuisine will receive protection and designation as a global specialty.
Other items on Spain´s list of intangible cultural heritage include flamenco dancing and castells, or human towers.
Read This Next
Top 5: Free Tapas Bars in Madrid
Europe
Oct 6, 2014#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedHotel
Nov 19, 2024Hilton, Universal Pictures Debut Suite Inspired by Wicked
Hilton and Universal Pictures invite fans of Wicked to indulge in a spellbinding stay in a new, spectacular themed suite. From Nov. 21–Jan. 5, travelers can ‘Stay Like’ Wicked at New York Hilton Midtown.
Sponsored Content
Seoul: Your Favorite Worldwide City
Seoul is the place for your next bleisure destination.
Dining/Entertainment
Nov 19, 2024Go Teepee Dining on the Beach at This Puerto Vallarta Resort
During a recent trip to Puerto Vallarta, I stayed at Casa Velas, where we also had access to all of the restaurants, experiences and events going on at its sister property Velas Vallarta. One night for dinner, our group put on our best tropical attire and headed to Velas Vallarta for a Teepee Dinner right on the beach.
Slideshow
Nov 19, 20247 Must-See Sites in Phoenix, Arizona
It’s time to start dreaming of your next trip. Here are seven must-see sites in Phoenix, Arizona.
Sponsored Content
Discover Greece’s Tower Towns: A Journey Through History
Greece's tower towns offer a captivating blend of history, architecture and stunning landscapes that make them perfect for curious travelers. These towns, particularly found in the Mani region of the Peloponnese, are defined by stone towers built during the medieval period. Constructed for both defense and as symbols of family pride, the towers stand as a testament to the region's turbulent history and its residents’ resilience.
Destinations / North America
Nov 18, 2024Catch Denver’s New Nightly Holiday Drone Show
Starting Nov. 22 and running through Dec. 31, travelers to downtown Denver will be able to witness a brand-new holiday drone spectacular. This new drone-powered light show will include more than 400 drones taking to the Denver skies, stretching across 400 feet of airspace, 500 feet in the air, for 15 minutes. The shows kick off each night at 7 p.m., with special shows Dec. 2, Dec. 25 and Dec. 31, and will celebrate and depict not only holiday favorite scenery, but also Denver icons such as the Blue Bear and the city’s professional sports teams.
ShareThis