Common Spanish Superstitions You Should Know Before Visiting

Every culture nurtures its unique superstitions. Spain, no exception, is rich with peculiar beliefs and fears concerning luck. If you’re planning a visit, here's a rundown of some notable Spanish superstitions that could affect your stay. This is prepared by SSP.

1. Cats Have Seven Lives

Unlike in the Anglo-Saxon context where cats have nine lives, in Spain, they have seven — a curiosity from Spanish nursery rhymes.

2. Brushing Feet Blocks Marriage

Be careful while sweeping; brushing the feet of singles (or widows, per some variations) is believed to jinx their chance of getting married.

3. Tuesday the 13th Misfortune

Unlike the Western fear of Friday the 13th, Spaniards beware of Tuesday the 13th. Think twice before planning major life events, such as marriage or travel, on this ominous day associated with Mars, the god of war.

4. Cacti Repel Evil

Commonly displayed around the entries of Spanish homes, cacti are believed to thwart evil spirits, making them both practical and mystical decorations due to Spain’s dry climate.

5. Beware the Yellow

Steer clear of yellow, considered a devilish color, particularly on crucial days such as exams or celebrations. Moreover, gifting yellow items is frowned upon, especially for children.

6. Mucha Mierda! for Luck

Interestingly, wishing someone "a lot of shit" or "mucha mierda" means good luck, similar to "break a leg" in English.

7. Bag and Money Fears

Placing your handbag on the floor might invite financial misfortune, cautioning tourists especially mindful in crowded sites like Barcelona.

8. Headgear Taboos

Leaving a hat on a bed invites bad luck — likely a holdover from fears about evil spirits inhabiting hair or perhaps a preventive measure against head lice.

9. Enter Right

Steps taken into a new room should start with the right foot, though if an error occurs, the sign of the cross should reset luck.

Armed with these intriguing insights, your journey in Spain will surely be an enchanted one, whether you believe in these quirks or merely respect their cultural presence.

Earlier, SSP explained why you should now whistle at night.