“Barcelona vs Real Madrid: Football, Politics and Passion” explores the iconic rivalry between Real Madrid and Barcelona, ​​known as “El Clásico”, delving into the rich history, legendary protagonists and defining moments that have defined the clash over the decades. From the origins of the clubs and the cultural and political differences between Madrid and Barcelona to the epic clashes between figures like Messi and Ronaldo, the narrative offers a comprehensive overview of the matches that transcended football and became a global phenomenon. In addition to revisiting the great derbies and their heroes, the book also examines the impact of “El Clásico” on popular culture, the commercialization of the rivalry and the new generations of players who continue to fuel its flame. With a detailed look at tactics, playing styles and the influence of regional politics, this work is essential reading for anyone passionate about football and the history of this defining clash.

From the origins of the clubs and the cultural and political differences between Madrid and Barcelona to the epic clashes between figures like Messi and Ronaldo, the narrative offers a comprehensive overview of the matches that transcended football and became a global phenomenon. In addition to revisiting the great derbies and their heroes, the book also examines the impact of "El Clásico" on popular culture, the commercialization of the rivalry and the new generations of players who continue to fuel its flame. With a detailed look at tactics, playing styles and the influence of regional politics, this work is essential reading for anyone passionate about football and the history of this defining clash.

An investigation of the intrigue, politics and culture behind El Clásico - the hard-fought, long-running contest between two of the world's biggest football clubs - explaining the place sport's greatest rivalry has in Spanish life and the world of football.

‘A history of modern Spain told through one of world football's most intense rivalries’ Independent ‘Sports Book of the Year’ Sunday Times It’s Messi vs Ronaldo, it’s Catalonia vs Castilla. It’s the nation against the state, freedom fighters vs Franco’s fascists. It’s majestic goals and mesmerising skills, red cards and bench brawls. It’s the best two teams on the planet going face to face and toe to toe. It’s more than a game. It’s a war. It’s Barcelona vs Real Madrid. Only, it’s not that simple. From the wounds left by the civil war to the teams’ recent global domination, historian and expert on Spanish football, Sid Lowe lifts the lid on sport’s greatest rivalry. Lowe has spoken to the biggest names and the forgotten heroes who defined their clubs. Men like Alfredo Di Stéfano and Johan Cruyff as well as the only survivor of the most politically charged game in history, the Barcelona striker who knocked Madrid out of the European Cup for the first time ever, and the president who celebrated his club’s defining moment by taking a midnight dip in the Thames. By exploring the history, politics, culture, economics and language, while never forgetting the drama on the pitch, Lowe demonstrates the symbiotic nature of the relationship between these two football giants. In doing so he reveals the human story behind this explosive rivalry.

Whether you want to admire the quirky architecture in Barcelona, watch swirling flamenco dancers in Seville, or kick back on the sun-kissed sands of Mallorca, your DK Eyewitness travel guide makes sure you experience all that Spain has to offer. From the golden beaches on the Mediterranean coast to the wild peaks of the Pyrenees, Spain's varied landscape is a treasure trove for outdoor enthusiasts. But its cities are just as enticing. Discover architectural wonders, Roman ruins, captivating museums, and, to top it all off, a tantalizing cuisine complemented by world-class wine. You'll discover: -Our pick of Spain's must-sees, top experiences and hidden gems -The best spots to eat, drink, shop and stay -Detailed maps and walks that make navigating the country easy -Easy-to-follow itineraries -Expert advice: get ready, get around and stay safe -Color-coded chapters to every part of Spain, from Barcelona to Madrid, Bilbao to Seville -A lightweight format, so you can take it with you wherever you go Our updated guide brings Spain to life, transporting you there like no other travel guide does with expert-led insights, trusted travel advice, detailed breakdowns of all the must-see sights, photographs on practically every page, and our hand-drawn illustrations that place you inside the country's iconic buildings and neighborhoods. Only visiting Barcelona? Try our DK Eyewitness Barcelona

Discover Spain - a compelling country filled with must see sights Whether you want to explore Granada's spectacular Alhambra palace, watch swirling flamenco dancers in Seville or walk through lush countryside on the epic Camino de Santiago, your DK Eyewitness travel guide makes sure you experience all that Spain has to offer. From the golden beaches on the Mediterranean coast to the wild peaks of the Pyrenees, Spain's varied landscape is a treasure trove for outdoor enthusiasts. But its cities are just as enticing. Discover architectural wonders, Roman ruins, captivating museums and, to top it all off, a tantalizing cuisine complemented by world-class wine. Our recently updated guide brings Spain to life, transporting you there like no other travel guide does with expert-led insights and advice, detailed breakdowns of all the must-see sights, photographs on practically every page, and our hand-drawn illustrations which place you inside the country's iconic buildings and neighborhoods. You'll discover: - our pick of Spain's must-sees, top experiences and hidden gems - the best spots to eat, drink, shop and stay - detailed maps and walks which make navigating the country easy - easy-to-follow itineraries - expert advice: get ready, get around and stay safe - color-coded chapters to every part of Spain, from Barcelona to Madrid, Northern Spain to Southern Spain - our new lightweight format, so you can take it with you wherever you go. Planning a city break? Look out for our DK Eyewitness Barcelona and Catalonia or our DK Eyewitness Madrid.

Real Madrid versus Barcelona is regarded by many as the most captivating fixture in world football. But it is not only the on-pitch battles that have forged their rivalry. From General Franco and bloody civil war to the Catalan city of Barcelona's lukewarm reaction to Spain's recent World Cup and European Championship triumphs, bitterness is never far from the surface. In El Clásico, Richard Fitzpatrick charts the key political and historical flashpoints between the two clubs. With exclusive interviews with key figures, including Luís Figo, Hristo Stoichkov, Joan Laporta and Vicente del Bosque, El Clásico is the definitive guide to football's greatest feud.