A pincho (Spanish; literally “thorn” or “spike”), pintxo (Basque) or pinchu (Asturian) is a small snack, typically eaten in bars, traditional in northern Spain and especially popular in the Basque country, Navarre, La Rioja, Cantabria, and Asturias. They are usually eaten in bars or taverns as a small snack, in the company of friends or relatives; thus, they have a strong socializing component, and, in the Basque country and Navarre, they are usually regarded as a cornerstone of local culture and society. They are related to tapas, the main difference being that pinchos are usually ‘spiked’ with a skewer or toothpick, often to a piece of bread. They are served in individual portions and always ordered and paid for independently from the drinks. It is not impossible, however, for the same item to be called pincho in one place and tapa in another. read more…
The tarte Tatin is a pastry in which the fruit (usually apples) is caramelized in butter and sugar before the tart is baked. Named after the Tatin sisters who invented it and served it in their hotel as its signature dish, it originated in France but has spread to other countries over time. read more…
Parmigiana, is an Italian dish made with fried, sliced eggplant layered with Parmesan cheese and tomato sauce, then baked. The origin of the dish is claimed by the regions of Sicily, Campania, and Emilia-Romagna. In Italy, the dish is known under the names parmigiana di melanzane, melanzane alla parmigiana, and in the United States and Canada as eggplant parmesan. read more…
The Vondel Church (Dutch: Vondelkerk) was a church building located on Vondelstraat in Amsterdam-West. From 1880 to 1977, the building—designed by architect Pierre Cuypers—served as the Church of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus for the Roman Catholic parish of the same name. After its deconsecration, the central nave was used for purposes including concerts, while surrounding spaces were rented out as offices. read more…
The Théâtre des Champs-Élysées is an entertainment venue standing at 15 avenue Montaigne in Paris. It is situated near Avenue des Champs-Élysées, from which it takes its name. Its eponymous main hall may seat up to 1,905 people, while the smaller Comédie and Studio des Champs-Élysées above the latter may seat 601 and 230 people respectively. read more…
Maulbronn is a city in the district of Enz in Baden-Württemberg in southern Germany. Founded in 1838, it emerged from a settlement, built around a monastery, which belonged to the Neckar Community in the Kingdom of Württemberg. In 1886, Maulbronn officially became a German town and was an administrative centre until 1938. The return of many displaced persons following the Second World War significantly raised the local population. read more…
