In modern times this has been demonstrated by the influence of General Franco, an incredible story, relayed so wonderfully in Ernest Hemmingway’s “Homage to Catalonia”. So where does the elgordo lotto fall  in to this rich tapestry and social fabric? Well, in the most true sense of things Spanish and as intrinsic as Paella, Tapas, Matadors, it certainly fills a distinct and charismatic role.

So let me explain. As a land Spain enjoys the pomp and ceremony of its fantastic Christmas lotto draw El Gordo. As an entity it is perhaps one of the utmost lotteries in the world and protrudestall among the major European Lotteries, not only from the perspective of its massive prize funds and jackpots but also how it is lovedby its people, the Spanish public. The inherent value it conveys is seen in many different arenas from literature, the famous work “ Hoy es Fiesta”  through to the whole series of concerts and shows which fill the severaldays before the Xmas draw.

The introduction of television and media communication in recent times has escalated the event to a land grabbing and worldwide status which gives the El Gordo Lottery platform a world wide stage and arena. During the few days leading up to drawing of lots from the golden bowls by children of the San Isdro orphanage, the chat is of the fabulous dream, the unbelievable win. Images and passions fully demonstrated in the leading literature work, Hoy es Fiesta” mentioned earlier. Whole villages have taken partand won, syndicates and groups of individuals sharing and daring to dream have been answered with amazing prizes building up to millions of Euros.

Such is the exhibition that Spain commits to have high level lottery draws through out the calendar year, the main ones being, El Nino in January and the Sorteo Extraordinario in July. This of course suggests and further adds weight to the sheer passion and excitement Spain gives to its thirst for lotteries, quite stunning when compared to some of the other European countries. Although there are some main lotteries such as the UK National Lottery and Euro millions they are somewhat different, early in their evolution in comparison. May be over time they will offer similar traits, however, being Spanish is being Spanish.

In conclusion what can one assume for the future? I can only intimate that the devotion for such an event will continue. It is so engrained within the Spanish way of life, it ironically  demonstratesone of the few unifying  common denominators for Spaniards, given recent separatist movement activity.

El Gordo is all things Spanish, it carries an air of dignity and respect yet presents and fashions a wonderful joyous occasion. I can only congratulate and the Spanish Lottery commission ONLAE for continuing this amazing tradition and truly incorporating it in to all things Spanish.