Totallympics Annual International Song Contest 2023

[Cobi 981]

 

MADRID BEARS

 

Madrid is the capital and largest city of Spain, located in the center of the Iberian Peninsula. The city has a long and rich history, dating back to the 9th century.

 

 

In the 16th century, Madrid became the capital of Spain under the reign of King Philip II, who made the city a center of culture and politics. During this time, many of Madrid's most famous landmarks were built, including the Royal Palace of Madrid and the Plaza Mayor.  Throughout the centuries, Madrid has played an important role in Spain's history, including during the Spanish Civil War in the 1930s. The city was heavily bombed during the war, but it was later rebuilt and has become one of Europe's most vibrant and modern cities.

 

Today, Madrid is home to over 3 million people (6.5 million if we consider the metropolitan area) and is known for its rich culture, art, and cuisine. It is also one of the world's most important financial centers and is home to many multinational companies and organizations. Tourists flock to the city to explore its historic landmarks, including the Prado Museum, the Retiro Park, and the Puerta del Sol.
 

 

The bear is a symbol of Madrid because of a legend that dates back to the Middle Ages. According to the legend, the city's founder, King Alfonso VI, was out hunting in the forests near the city when he saw a group of bears. The sight of the bears inspired him to choose the area as the site for the city of Madrid.

 

Over the years, the image of a bear has become closely associated with Madrid, and it is now the city's official emblem. The bear is often depicted standing on its hind legs and leaning against a tree, while eating the fruit from the tree with its front paws. This image can be seen on the city's coat of arms, on street signs, and in many other places throughout Madrid.

 

 

 

TYPICAL FOOD:

 

Madrid is known for its delicious and hearty cuisine, which includes a variety of traditional dishes. Some of the most popular dishes of Madrid include:

 

• Cocido Madrileño: A stew made with chickpeas, vegetables, and different types of meat, such as pork, beef, and chorizo.
• Huevos rotos: Fried eggs served on top of a bed of potatoes and sometimes ham or chorizo.
• Callos a la Madrileña: A stew made with tripe, chorizo, and morcilla (blood sausage).
• Bocadillo de Calamares: A sandwich filled with fried squid rings.
• Churros con chocolate: Fried dough pastries served with a thick hot chocolate dipping sauce.
• Patatas bravas: Fried potatoes served with a spicy tomato sauce.

 

These dishes are often accompanied by a glass of tinto de verano (a refreshing wine-based drink) or a caña (small glass of beer). Madrid is also known for its tapas culture, where small plates of food are served with drinks in bars and restaurants, making it an excellent place to try a variety of traditional Spanish dishes.

 

 

MEMBERS OF THE TEAM:

•  ITALY @SteveParker@Pablita @Henry_Leon
•  SERBIA @NikolaB
•  POLAND @rybak
•  UKRAINE @Illya
•  SWEDEN @Belle

[Cobi 981]

By the way, the Opening Ceremony will take place tomorrow Friday 17th at 20:30 (Central European Time). It will last between 60 and 75 minutes and will have a traditional structure starting with the Parade of Nations, an artistic section as the main part of the ceremony and it will finish with the protocolary part, including the Oaths and the presentation of the Scoreboard for Saturday's Grand Final.

 

The ceremony, in line with the rest of the edition, will showcase Spanish culture and history and it will also celebrate the Jubilee Edition of the Totallympics International Song Contest.

[konig 1,504]

1 hour ago, Cobi said:

 

MADRID BEARS

 

Madrid is the capital and largest city of Spain, located in the center of the Iberian Peninsula. The city has a long and rich history, dating back to the 9th century.

 

 

In the 16th century, Madrid became the capital of Spain under the reign of King Philip II, who made the city a center of culture and politics. During this time, many of Madrid's most famous landmarks were built, including the Royal Palace of Madrid and the Plaza Mayor.  Throughout the centuries, Madrid has played an important role in Spain's history, including during the Spanish Civil War in the 1930s. The city was heavily bombed during the war, but it was later rebuilt and has become one of Europe's most vibrant and modern cities.

 

Today, Madrid is home to over 3 million people (6.5 million if we consider the metropolitan area) and is known for its rich culture, art, and cuisine. It is also one of the world's most important financial centers and is home to many multinational companies and organizations. Tourists flock to the city to explore its historic landmarks, including the Prado Museum, the Retiro Park, and the Puerta del Sol.
 

 

The bear is a symbol of Madrid because of a legend that dates back to the Middle Ages. According to the legend, the city's founder, King Alfonso VI, was out hunting in the forests near the city when he saw a group of bears. The sight of the bears inspired him to choose the area as the site for the city of Madrid.

 

Over the years, the image of a bear has become closely associated with Madrid, and it is now the city's official emblem. The bear is often depicted standing on its hind legs and leaning against a tree, while eating the fruit from the tree with its front paws. This image can be seen on the city's coat of arms, on street signs, and in many other places throughout Madrid.

 

 

 

TYPICAL FOOD:

 

Madrid is known for its delicious and hearty cuisine, which includes a variety of traditional dishes. Some of the most popular dishes of Madrid include:

 

• Cocido Madrileño: A stew made with chickpeas, vegetables, and different types of meat, such as pork, beef, and chorizo.
• Huevos rotos: Fried eggs served on top of a bed of potatoes and sometimes ham or chorizo.
• Callos a la Madrileña: A stew made with tripe, chorizo, and morcilla (blood sausage).
• Bocadillo de Calamares: A sandwich filled with fried squid rings.
• Churros con chocolate: Fried dough pastries served with a thick hot chocolate dipping sauce.
• Patatas bravas: Fried potatoes served with a spicy tomato sauce.

 

These dishes are often accompanied by a glass of tinto de verano (a refreshing wine-based drink) or a caña (small glass of beer). Madrid is also known for its tapas culture, where small plates of food are served with drinks in bars and restaurants, making it an excellent place to try a variety of traditional Spanish dishes.

 

 

MEMBERS OF THE TEAM:

•  ITALY @SteveParker@Pablita @Henry_Leon
•  SERBIA @NikolaB
•  POLAND @rybak
•  UKRAINE @Illya
•  SWEDEN @Belle

The "oso y el madroño" and the "Museo Del Jamon", what a memories of this beautiful city.

[Cobi 981]

 

BARCELONA DRAGONS

 

Barcelona is the capital city of the Catalonia region in northeastern Spain. The city has a long and fascinating history that can be traced back over 2,000 years. It was founded as a small Roman colony in the 1st century BC, and later became an important trading center during the Middle Ages.

 

 

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Barcelona experienced a period of rapid growth and modernization, becoming the most important industrial and cultural center in Spain. During this time, many of the city's most famous landmarks were built, including the Sagrada Familia, the Park Güell, and the Gothic Quarter.

 

Barcelona has also played an important role in modern Spanish history. In 1936, at the beginning of the Spanish Civil War, the city became a stronghold of the Republican forces and was heavily bombed by the Nationalists. After the war, Barcelona experienced a period of economic and cultural growth, becoming a center of the arts, literature, and music.

 

Today, Barcelona is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe, attracting millions of visitors each year. The city is known for its stunning architecture, vibrant culture, and beautiful beaches.

 

 

Dragons have played an important role in the history and culture of Barcelona. In fact, the dragon is the most iconic symbol of the city and can be found in many different forms throughout its streets and landmarks.

 

The legend of the dragon of Barcelona dates back to the Middle Ages when the city was under the rule of the Count of Barcelona, Wilfred the Hairy. According to the legend, a fierce dragon had been terrorizing the people of the city, killing livestock and causing widespread destruction. In order to put an end to the dragon's rampage, Wilfred the Hairy decided to take action.

 

He tracked down the dragon and fought it in a fierce battle that lasted for hours. Finally, he was able to slay the dragon and free the city from its reign of terror. As a result of his bravery, Wilfred the Hairy became a hero in the eyes of the people of Barcelona, and the dragon became a symbol of the city's strength and resilience.

 

 

 

TYPICAL FOOD:

 

Barcelona has a rich culinary tradition with a variety of delicious dishes that reflect the city's Catalan heritage. Some of the most popular foods in Barcelona include:

 

• Escalivada: A dish made with roasted vegetables, such as eggplant, red peppers, and onions, often served with bread.
• Fideuà: A seafood dish made with short noodles, similar to paella, but with noodles instead of rice.
• Botifarra: A type of sausage made with pork and spices, often served grilled or as part of a stew.
• Crema catalana: A creamy dessert similar to crème brûlée, flavored with cinnamon and lemon zest.
• Canelons: Pasta shells filled with a variety of meats, such as chicken or beef, often served as a Christmas dish.
• Coca de recapte: A type of flatbread topped with roasted vegetables, such as eggplant, peppers, and onions.

 

Barcelona is also known for its wide variety of fresh seafood, which can be found in many of the city's restaurants and markets. The city is also home to many excellent wineries, producing a variety of local wines that pair well with Catalan cuisine.

 

 

 

MEMBERS OF THE TEAM:

•  GERMANY @catgamer
•  BULGARIA @Federer91
•  MEXICO @mrv86
•  HUNGARY @Vektor
•  DENMARK @Wumo @Agger

[Cobi 981]

 

VALENCIA BATS

 

Valencia is a city located on the eastern coast of Spain, in the region of Valencia. It is the third largest city in Spain after Madrid and Barcelona, with a population of over 790,000 people. Valencia is known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and as a hub for trade and commerce.

 

 

Valencia has a long and complex history, with evidence of human habitation dating back to the Neolithic era. The city was founded by the Romans in 138 BC and was named "Valentia Edetanorum." It played an important role in the Roman Empire as a strategic location for trade and commerce.

During the Visigothic period, Valencia became an important center of Christianity and culture, and in the 8th century, it was conquered by the Moors. Under Moorish rule, Valencia became a major center of agriculture and trade.

 

In 1238, Valencia was conquered by the Christian King James I of Aragon, marking the end of Moorish rule in the region. Valencia experienced a period of growth and prosperity during the Middle Ages, with the development of trade and the expansion of agriculture. In the 15th century, Valencia became a major center of arts and culture, with the emergence of the Valencian School of Painting and the construction of numerous palaces and public buildings.

 

Today, Valencia is a vibrant and dynamic city, known for its cultural heritage, historic landmarks, and modern amenities. Its attractions include the City of Arts and Sciences, the Central Market, the Valencia Cathedral, and the Turia Gardens, among many others. Valencia is also famous for its cuisine, including paella, a rice-based dish that originated in the region.

 

 

The bat is an important symbol of Valencia, and it can be seen on the city's coat of arms, flag, and many other emblems and logos. The origins of the bat as a symbol of Valencia are uncertain, but there are several legends and theories about its meaning.

 

One legend suggests that during the 13th century, King James I of Aragon was besieging the city of Valencia, and the defenders of the city were able to repel his army by using bats as weapons. The bats frightened the horses and caused chaos among the enemy ranks, allowing the defenders to gain the upper hand.

 

Another theory suggests that the bat is a symbol of good luck, as it is believed to have protected the city from a plague of locusts during the Middle Ages. According to the legend, the bats flew into the city and ate the locusts, saving the crops and preventing a famine.

 

Whatever its origins, the bat has become an important symbol of Valencia and is celebrated in many ways. The city holds a festival called Las Fallas each year in March (this weekend), during which giant sculptures of bats and other figures are displayed throughout the city and then burned in a spectacular display of fireworks and flames. 
 

 

 

TYPICAL FOOD - LA PAELLA:

 

La paella is the most famous dish from Valencia, and it has become the most popular dish in Spanish cuisine. It is a rice-based dish that is typically made with a variety of seafood, meat, or vegetables, depending on the region and the season.

 

The classic Valencian paella is made with rabbit, chicken, green beans, white beans, and saffron, which gives the dish its characteristic golden color and unique flavor. Other variations may include seafood, such as shrimp, clams, mussels, or squid, or vegetables such as artichokes, peppers, and tomatoes.

 

The preparation of paella is a traditional social activity in Valencia, often involving large groups of family and friends who gather around the dish as it cooks over an open flame. The rice is cooked slowly and evenly in a wide, shallow pan, allowing the flavors to blend together and the rice to develop a crispy crust on the bottom, known as socarrat.

 

 

In addition to paella, Valencia is also known for its other traditional dishes, such as arroz al horno (baked rice), fideuà (a noodle-based dish similar to paella), and all i pebre (a seafood stew made with eels and potatoes). Other local specialties include horchata, a refreshing drink made from tiger nuts, and buñuelos, a type of fried dough pastry that is typically served with hot chocolate.

 

Overall, the food of Valencia reflects the region's agricultural heritage, with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients and traditional cooking techniques that have been passed down through generations of Valencian cooks.
 

 

 

MEMBERS OF THE TEAM:

•  LITHUANIA @Werloc
•  SLOVENIA @justony
•  NORWAY @vkristijan
•  NEW ZEALAND @Wanderer

[Werloc 3,169]

5 hours ago, Cobi said:

 

VALENCIA BATS

 

Valencia is a city located on the eastern coast of Spain, in the region of Valencia. It is the third largest city in Spain after Madrid and Barcelona, with a population of over 790,000 people. Valencia is known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and as a hub for trade and commerce.

 

 

Valencia has a long and complex history, with evidence of human habitation dating back to the Neolithic era. The city was founded by the Romans in 138 BC and was named "Valentia Edetanorum." It played an important role in the Roman Empire as a strategic location for trade and commerce.

During the Visigothic period, Valencia became an important center of Christianity and culture, and in the 8th century, it was conquered by the Moors. Under Moorish rule, Valencia became a major center of agriculture and trade.

 

In 1238, Valencia was conquered by the Christian King James I of Aragon, marking the end of Moorish rule in the region. Valencia experienced a period of growth and prosperity during the Middle Ages, with the development of trade and the expansion of agriculture. In the 15th century, Valencia became a major center of arts and culture, with the emergence of the Valencian School of Painting and the construction of numerous palaces and public buildings.

 

Today, Valencia is a vibrant and dynamic city, known for its cultural heritage, historic landmarks, and modern amenities. Its attractions include the City of Arts and Sciences, the Central Market, the Valencia Cathedral, and the Turia Gardens, among many others. Valencia is also famous for its cuisine, including paella, a rice-based dish that originated in the region.

 

 

The bat is an important symbol of Valencia, and it can be seen on the city's coat of arms, flag, and many other emblems and logos. The origins of the bat as a symbol of Valencia are uncertain, but there are several legends and theories about its meaning.

 

One legend suggests that during the 13th century, King James I of Aragon was besieging the city of Valencia, and the defenders of the city were able to repel his army by using bats as weapons. The bats frightened the horses and caused chaos among the enemy ranks, allowing the defenders to gain the upper hand.

 

Another theory suggests that the bat is a symbol of good luck, as it is believed to have protected the city from a plague of locusts during the Middle Ages. According to the legend, the bats flew into the city and ate the locusts, saving the crops and preventing a famine.

 

Whatever its origins, the bat has become an important symbol of Valencia and is celebrated in many ways. The city holds a festival called Las Fallas each year in March (this weekend), during which giant sculptures of bats and other figures are displayed throughout the city and then burned in a spectacular display of fireworks and flames. 
 

 

 

TYPICAL FOOD - LA PAELLA:

 

La paella is the most famous dish from Valencia, and it has become the most popular dish in Spanish cuisine. It is a rice-based dish that is typically made with a variety of seafood, meat, or vegetables, depending on the region and the season.

 

The classic Valencian paella is made with rabbit, chicken, green beans, white beans, and saffron, which gives the dish its characteristic golden color and unique flavor. Other variations may include seafood, such as shrimp, clams, mussels, or squid, or vegetables such as artichokes, peppers, and tomatoes.

 

The preparation of paella is a traditional social activity in Valencia, often involving large groups of family and friends who gather around the dish as it cooks over an open flame. The rice is cooked slowly and evenly in a wide, shallow pan, allowing the flavors to blend together and the rice to develop a crispy crust on the bottom, known as socarrat.

 

 

In addition to paella, Valencia is also known for its other traditional dishes, such as arroz al horno (baked rice), fideuà (a noodle-based dish similar to paella), and all i pebre (a seafood stew made with eels and potatoes). Other local specialties include horchata, a refreshing drink made from tiger nuts, and buñuelos, a type of fried dough pastry that is typically served with hot chocolate.

 

Overall, the food of Valencia reflects the region's agricultural heritage, with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients and traditional cooking techniques that have been passed down through generations of Valencian cooks.
 

 

 

MEMBERS OF THE TEAM:

•  LITHUANIA @Werloc
•  SLOVENIA @justony
•  NORWAY @vkristijan
•  NEW ZEALAND @Wanderer

R.I.P. Valencia Tortoises 

 

We're bats now 

[Werloc 3,169]

 AUSTRALIA 

 

One of the absolute gems that I've uncovered this year just browsing music - Australian singer JOY.

If you like the vibes, I highly recommend to listen to her other songs, for example: "Anime" or "Out of Love"  

 

JOY. - Alone On The Moon

 

 

[Hipooo 639]

I can't wait on tomorrow contest!!! TAISC fever is starting. How about you? 

[Werloc 3,169]

Lol, I looked at the voting times, got a little bit confused, but at the end of the day, I got a little history fact out of it.

 

When I googled what time is it in Spain right now, to check why we're only one hour apart and how is that possible  

 

One of the first suggested searches was "Why is Spain 1 hour ahead of UK", so I'm glad that I was not the only one confused.

 

It's funny that one fascist government decided to change timezones and everybody went along with it for over 70 years now  

[Cobi 981]

2 minutes ago, Werloc said:

Lol, I looked at the voting times, got a little bit confused, but at the end of the day, I got a little history fact out of it.

 

When I googled what time is it in Spain right now, to check why we're only one hour apart and how is that possible  

 

One of the first suggested searches was "Why is Spain 1 hour ahead of UK", so I'm glad that I was not the only one confused.

 

It's funny that one fascist government decided to change timezones and everybody went along with it for over 70 years now  

Yeah. Having a timezone that doesn't match the solar time is one of the reasons why we have a different schedule compared to the rest of Europe. For example in Spain we usually have lunch at 14:30-15:30 and dinner at 21:00-22:00.

 

The discussion about changing the timezone or not is relatively popular here and it will probably happen at some point in the future.