2. Spain’s Siesta Isn’t a Myth, But It’s Evolving
Spain’s infamous midday nap tradition still exists, but it’s not as widespread as outsiders think. The classic two-hour siesta came from an agricultural past when extreme heat made midday labor unbearable. Today, in major cities like Madrid or Barcelona, most professionals skip the nap. However, in smaller towns, shops still shut down between 2 and 5 PM, and families often pause for meals and brief rest. Interestingly, even with this daytime nap culture, Spain’s bedtime is among the latest in Europe. Spaniards may start sleeping at midnight, but they still average about seven hours of rest by blending day and night routines.
