Locas Pasiones was a unique section of EL PAÍS’ weekly magazine from 1987 to 1988 that featured Spanish public figures posing as their favorite historical characters. Photographer Luis Magán captured former Spanish prime minister José María Aznar dressed as the medieval knight El Cid in 1988 at the castle of Villafuerte de Esgueva. The photo session was inspired by the epic Spanish poem El Cantar del mio Cid,. The snapshot of Aznar became the cover of the book Una, grande y rara: Diccionario ilustrado de la España alucinante y alucinada.
The book delves into the bizarre and oddities of Spanish nationalism, exploring figures like El Cid, Franco, and mythical characters. From stories of dignity to overcoming adversity, the book covers a wide range of intriguing narratives. It also features tales of pop culture, music, and even gruesome episodes such as the murder committed by a former singer. The book encapsulates Spain’s complex identity, blending history, folklore, and the unconventional.
Buffalo Bill in Barcelona
The book also narrates fascinating stories like the controversial exhibition of the “Black man of Banyoles” and Buffalo Bill’s fateful trip to Barcelona in 1889. These historical accounts shed light on cultural clashes and obscurities from Spain’s past. With a touch of darkness and intrigue, Una, grande y rara offers a captivating journey through the stranger side of Spanish history.
Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAÍS USA Edition