Joaquin Cortes the very famous (and may I add the very sexy) flamenco dancer from Cordoba is a treat for the eye. Born in 1969 to a gypsy family, started his dance training at 12 years old and soon joined the National Ballet of Spain where through the years became a soloist for the well known company. Now as a solo performer he has traveled all around the world and performed with such prestigious dancers as Maya Plisetskaya, Silvie Guillem, Peter Schauffuss, to name a few.

His roots are well established in Spain and he is considered one of the best flamenco artist of his time. Around the world he has been able to use his talent (and yes his looks) to help make Spain´s most famous art a must see affair for all. His dancing is hypnotic, strong and affectionate. I´m in awe when I watch him move and don´t want it to ever end.

He has been recently named Romes ambassador to the EU, which should make the south of Spain proud as can be.

What would Spain be without Flamenco? I´m not really sure, but I do know that Flamenco is the soul of Spain and it is a passion that not only can be seen and heard it is felt from deep inside the veins of any Spaniard.

The roots of Flamenco can be traced back for centuries. Born from the expression of a persecuted people, most notably, the Gypsies of Southern Spain, flamenco, in general, consists of three artistic elements: the singing (cante), the dance (baile) and the guitar

(guitarra) all with the addition of hand clapping (palmas) which help and add to the rhythm and beat of flamenco.

Flamenco is everywhere in Spain and if you are visiting this country you need to experience a flamenco show for yourself. Flamenco org offers you lists of different flamenco spots and festivals so you are sure not to miss any excitement.

photo | flckr

more information | flamenco world

more about this | article (in spanish)
wikipedia bio | Lola Flores (in english)
a web about flamenco | flamenco-world