Luis García Montero, director of the Cervantes Institute and renowned poet and writer, recently embarked on a visit to Istanbul, marking an important milestone in Turkiye’s burgeoning relations with the Spanish-speaking world. Montero’s observations highlight the growing interest in Spanish language and culture within the bustling metropolis of Istanbul, as well as strategic efforts to deepen cultural exchanges between the two countries.
“There is no longer a dialogue between Europe and Asia, but rather a dialogue between cultures, cities in motion, and peoples coming and going. And here (in Istanbul) the Cervantes Institute has fulfilled its mission of preserving interculturality and culture.” “I am very happy to welcome the “Spanish and Latin American tradition in cultural dialogue,” he said.
In particular, when I mentioned the growing popularity of the Spanish language and culture in Turkiye, Mr. Montero specifically pointed out that the data presented in Turkiye also show a positive trend in this direction. .
“Well, based on the data that I am working with and the numbers that are available, I can confirm that in Turkiye the interest in Spanish is very pronounced and attracts a lot of attention among the younger generation. Interest is growing. Well, Spanish is the second most spoken language.” In this year’s Spanish Yearbook, we have the largest number of native speakers in the world after Chinese. , we published the numbers: 500 million native speakers, 600 million speakers overall, and if you include those who have learned Spanish and those who have learned Spanish, that’s 600 million. “He said.
“This makes Spanish an attractive language for job searches for people who want to travel the world, are looking for work abroad, and are interested in culture, globalization, and international relations. , which is why Spanish is becoming more popular to study in Turkiye and other countries,” he added.
Particularly since last year, the Istanbul branch, led by Director Fernando Martínez-Bara de Rey, has rapidly gained momentum and maximized the cultural exchange between the two countries through numerous events aimed at promoting Spanish culture.
“We have a way of working and we always say we are proud of the work we do in Spanish defense, but we don’t want to become complacent because there is always more to do,” Montero elaborated. Told.
“In that sense, for example, the reason for this trip is to open the Cervantes Institute in Ankara so that everything that is already being done in terms of Spanish language education, teacher training and Spanish culture can be done in Ankara. “Spanish is spoken from Istanbul to Ankara. And here, for example, I think the relationship with all the Latin American embassies is very important. “It is very important to know that Spanish is the language of a large international community, in which of course Latin America plays a very important role,” he said.
cultural connections
Spanish and Turkish cultures share a remarkable closeness built on historical contacts, geographical proximity, and common cultural values. Despite their different backgrounds, both countries are deeply rooted in Mediterranean traditions and value warmth, hospitality, and strong family ties.
The historical ties between the Ottoman Empire and Spain have also left a lasting mark on the cultures of both countries, as evidenced by architectural influences, culinary exchanges, and linguistic borrowings. Additionally, a shared appreciation for music, dance, and vibrant festivals emphasizes a mutual enthusiasm for life and celebration. From the intricate tilework of the Alhambra to the bustling streets of Istanbul, the cultural affinity between Spain and Turkey transcends borders and reflects the enduring bonds of shared experience and cultural heritage.
Currently, in Spain, Turkish television series have become another medium of this cultural exchange, being mainly watched and in high demand. Turkish TV series have been a sensation in Spain since they were first exported to Turkey in 2018, according to José Antonio Anton, vice president of Atremedia Group, which is responsible for importing Turkish dramas in Spain. That’s what it means.