New Liberal and Laidback Social Landscape…
Spain's transition towards democracy and tolerant values following General Franco's death in 1975 has had its setbacks along the way. These days, however, the country is one of the most liberal in Europe. In 2005, for example, it became the third nation to legalise gay marriage, after the Netherlands and Belgium.
Homosexuality is generally well accepted and public approval of gay marriage is widespread, even in the still traditionally patriarchal, religious or “macho” pockets of society. Of course, it is wise to exercise discretion in some environments – particularly away from the resorts and larger cities – but this is the same for pretty much every country in the western world.
Spain's most cosmopolitan areas are some of the most gay-friendly destinations in the world, highlighted by Sitges in Cataluña and the Costa del Sol's own Torremolinos resort.
For more information about the LGBT+ community in your local area or elsewhere in Spain, these three links are among the most authoritative:
Wilt U uw Spaanse droomhuis vinden?