BTN News: From the early days of black-and-white screens to the age of digital platforms, Spanish television has played a significant role in shaping the cultural memory of its people. Now, the history of Spanish TV is celebrated in an exciting exhibition titled “Las Series de Nuestra Vida”, organized by the SGAE (Spanish Society of Authors and Publishers) at the Palacio de Longoria in Madrid. This exhibition spans over seven decades of Spanish television, offering visitors a chance to experience firsthand the shows that have defined generations. The exhibition is open to the public until November 3, 2024.
Celebrating Seven Decades of Spanish Television
The “Las Series de Nuestra Vida” exhibition offers a rich journey through the history of television in Spain. Showcasing over 40 iconic series, the exhibition is organized into different sections, each representing a key era in Spanish TV. Visitors can expect to see original objects, costumes, and set pieces that bring beloved characters and moments from classic shows to life.
A standout piece from the early years of television is the original drawings by Antonio Mingote for the 1966 series Historias para no dormir, one of the most iconic shows from the black-and-white TV era. Visitors will also see the original Álvaro de Luna costume worn by the character “El Algarrobo” in the 1976 hit series Curro Jiménez. The exhibit offers both a nostalgic trip for older generations and a discovery opportunity for younger visitors unfamiliar with these classics.
From Classic to Contemporary: The Evolution of Spanish TV
As television has evolved, so too has its role in Spanish culture. According to Jorge Sánchez-Cabezudo, creator of El Crematorio (2011) and La Zona (2017), Spanish television has often connected with audiences more deeply than cinema. He highlights how today’s digital platforms have enabled a shift in episode structure, moving away from the strict 70-minute formats once dictated by advertising needs. “Before, you had to fit into a format,” Jorge reflects, “but now, narrative flexibility is key.”
The exhibition not only looks back at the golden age of Spanish television but also highlights contemporary hits that have gained international fame. Shows like “La Casa de Papel” and “Élite” demonstrate how Spanish productions have taken the world by storm in recent years, earning global viewership on streaming platforms like Netflix. These modern series redefine what Spanish TV can be, expanding the country’s cultural reach far beyond its borders.
Iconic Objects and Memorabilia: A Look Behind the Scenes
For fans of specific series, the “Las Series de Nuestra Vida” exhibition holds a treasure trove of items that will delight enthusiasts. For example, you can find the wedding dress worn by Lydia Bosch in the final episode of Médico de Familia, preserved for over 25 years. Also on display is the original pharmacy counter from the 1991 hit series Farmacia de Guardia, on loan from the University of Alcalá de Henares.
Other featured items include the original paintings used in El Ministerio del Tiempo (2015) to give the appearance of historical portraits in the office of the subsecretary. Fans of classic literary adaptations like Las cañas y el barro (1978) and Fortunata y Jacinta (1980) will appreciate seeing props and costumes that helped bring these beloved works of Spanish literature to the screen.
A Cultural Retrospective for All Generations
One of the exhibition’s goals, according to curator Lorenzo Mejino, is to bring together visitors of all ages. He envisions younger audiences coming with their parents or grandparents to share in the nostalgia and stories that shaped each generation. The Palacio de Longoria, a historic modernist building, provides a fitting backdrop for this journey through time, offering both a visually stunning space and a rich historical context.
As Jorge Sánchez-Cabezudo aptly puts it, “Television has been both a witness and narrator of the country’s transformations.” This exhibition underscores that role, showing how Spanish television has not only reflected societal changes but also helped shape the cultural identity of the nation.
Visiting the “Las Series de Nuestra Vida” Exhibition
Running until November 3, 2024, the exhibition is located at the Palacio de Longoria in Madrid. Admission is free, and the event is open daily from 4 PM to 9 PM, making it easily accessible for both locals and tourists.
Whether you grew up watching these iconic series or are simply curious about the role of television in Spanish culture, this exhibition promises a rich, engaging experience for all visitors. Don’t miss the chance to walk through seven decades of TV history and discover how Spanish series have touched the hearts and minds of viewers for generations.
