Friday, November 20, 2009

La Tertulia

Strange name you may think, but let me enlighten you.
"A Tertulia is a social gathering with artistic, political or literary overtones specifically in Spain or Latin America. The term is originally Spanish and has little currency in English in describing Latin cultural contexts. It is similar to a Salon but in recent centuries has been a regularly scheduled event in a public place such as a bar or cafe. Participants share their recent creations such as poetry, songs, writings, artworks or even opinions. Usually, but not always, the participants in a regular scheduled tertulia will be in some respects, like minded individuals with similar politics, literary tastes etc."
That is roughly what a tertulia is and we felt it encompassed the sort of place we want to have. So to describe the feel of the cafe (and remember, this is still some way down the track so we will see what materialises) I will try and visualise it: a rustic room with a mish mash of different tables and chairs. Big tables for big groups and small tables for intimate chats. Couches, settees, lounges, call them what you want, for comfort. Ceiling high shelves filled with books and magazines and newspapers. Great coffee, healthy breakfasts, tapas and nice wine. Good music, also live (mags!) and people having a good time.... hopefully lots of them. This is our vision so far.