On Ancha de Lucena street, the El Cortijo bar has achieved something unique for celebrate your 40th birthday: accept payments in pesetas, the official currency of Spain until 2002. For one day, customers could enjoy prices reminiscent of the bar’s golden years. A beer costs only 25 pesetas, a wine tasting 50 and a portion 200.
pesetas from 40 years ago
The idea came from Rafael, owner of the establishment, who wanted to revive the box he had made 40 years ago during its inauguration. “That day we exceeded 5,000 pesetas, an impressive figure for the time.“. Inspired by this memory, he decided to give neighbors the opportunity to use a currency that no longer has value on the market, but still arouses affection.
El Cortijo is much more than a bar steeped in history. Over time, she managed to establish herself as one of the best rated in Lucena. Its specialty, rice, attracts both tourists and locals, who also appreciate its warm setting. Albero Patio. In summer, this space becomes an ideal refuge for Cordovan nights, combining good cuisine and a relaxed atmosphere.
Although pesetas have ceased to have legal value in 2021when the deadline to exchange them at the Bank of Spain expired, the residents of Lucena did not miss the opportunity. Many have emptied their piggy banks to pay with coins and notes They are now just collectibles.
The day was a complete success, both for Rafael and for the customers who lined up to take part in this special tribute. Even though pesetas no longer have a place in the Spanish economy, El Cortijo has demonstrated that the value of souvenirs is priceless.
