Art and Culture in Spain, Italy and Portugal

Over the years, Claudine Bhatti has had the opportunity to travel all across the globe. She has particularly enjoyed traveling through Europe to explore its rich art and culture.

For Claudine Bhatti, traveling to Europe is such an interesting experience with a mix of different cultures all packed together in one continent. From food and art, to music and architecture, countries like Spain, Italy, and Portugal are full of wonderful things to learn and discover. Read on for a little taste of what the culture and art scenes are like in each of these countries to help you decide which ones to add to your travel bucket list.

Spain

Art & Architecture by Antoni Gaudi

-Art: Spain has been an epicenter for art since prehistoric days. Influenced by neighboring countries during the neoclassical and Baroque periods, Spanish art began to take over with its own distinct characteristics. At various points throughout history Spain was the center of Iberian Sculpture, Celtic art and Baroque architecture. The Spanish art world has given us Goya, Picasso, Dali and Antoni Gaudi, some of Europe’s most renowned artists and architects.

-Culture: The Spanish culture is well rounded and quite distinct. With the literature side producing the well loved tale of Don Quixote, the sect of cinema also has put out some English language films such as the Machinist, The Others and Basic Instinct 2.

Italy

Leaning Tower of Pisa

-Art: With Byzantine art, the Italian Renaissance and neoclassical styles, Italian art has been leading the way in the art scenes of Europe and the Western world. Pumping out famous artists such as Michelangelo, Raphael and Leonardo Da Vinci, Italy has become a hub for international art enthusiasts.

-Culture: The culture of Italy is especially well known for its cuisine and fashion. With pizza, pasta and gelato permeating into the international culinary scene, Italian food is well known by nearly everyone. It’s architecture like the Colosseum, Leaning tower of Pisa and the Florence Cathedral are identifying works known throughout the world.

Portugal  

Portrait of Master Sculptor, Machado de Castro

-Art: The art scene in Portugal spans across many sects, most importantly being sculpture. Their Baroque sculptures made of wood are said to have influenced other countries. Religious art has also played a large role with artists such as Machado de Castro leading the way. Azulejos, glazed tiles, are also a significant part of the Portuguese decorative arts.

-Culture: The Portuguese culture has a long history and has been affected by various countries and people throughout time. Visitors will find a strong café culture, interest in bullfighting and a passion for folk dancing. Winemaking is quite popular and the Fado music genre is widespread around the country.

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