Lucía Benavides is a Barcelona-based reporter, producer and writer. Originally from Argentina, she was raised in Texas from a young age. She has years of experience in radio reporting, feature writing and international coverage — having filed from Spain, Italy, Ireland, Senegal and Russia. Before Barcelona, Lucía worked at the NPR affiliate in Austin, Texas.
How US sailors kicked off Barcelona's tourism industry in the 1950s
At first, sailors with the US 6th Fleet brought in a flair of modernity and freedom. Over time, public opinion toward their influence in Spain changed.
Catalonia pardons women accused of witchcraft 400 years ago
Residents remember their losses as they rebuild from La Palma's volcanic eruption
Feminist tango collectives take center stage in Argentina
Barcelona celebrates a very merry 'scatological' Christmas
From Argentina to US to Spain: A personal history told through childhood audio diaries
Long forgotten tape cassettes from the first 13 years of her life carry reporter Lucía Benavides back to childhood memories of her original home in Argentina.
How the Beatles inspired a rock revolution in Argentina
The birth of Argentine rock coincided with a turbulent time in Latin American history when many countries fell under military dictatorships.
Foragers in Catalonia embrace a new mushroom-hunting season after last year’s strict lockdown
This year, mushroom-hunting season is more anticipated than ever after last year’s strict quarantine measures kept most people in their own municipalities for the entire winter. The tradition is particularly strong in the northeast region of Catalonia.
Biden proclaimed Oct. 11 Indigenous Peoples’ Day. But Spain still honors Columbus as part of its National Day.
The holiday celebrates Spanish national pride. But many scholars say it marks the start of one of the biggest genocides in history.
Spain vows to help rebuild La Palma after devastating volcano eruption
Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has announced approval for a $239 million recovery plan for La Palma during his third visit to the island since the volcano erupted.
San Marino votes to legalize abortion, ending a 150-year-old ban
After a highly charged campaign in the small republic, the “yes” vote to legalize abortion won with 77% of votes — and a voter turnout of over 60%.
As energy prices soar in Spain, residents seek renewable alternatives
Across Spain, electricity costs have steadily risen at historically high rates since early this summer — and it’s expected to climb even higher. Experts say the price hike is primarily due to the increase of the price of natural gas and CO2 emission costs.
Abortion is illegal in Malta. Activists are trying to increase access.
On the predominantly Catholic island, abortion is illegal under all circumstances. During the pandemic, activists have strengthened networks to increase access to abortion information and services.
Catalonia’s temporary tele-abortion services are a game-changer for women with limited access
New legislation introduced during the pandemic in Europe, including Spain's northeast region of Catalonia, allows women to conduct nearly every abortion appointment online.
Protesters in Spain say rapper’s arrest is an attack on freedom of expression
Over the past week, thousands of protesters rallied in rapper Pablo Hasél’s defense while hundreds of artists — including Spanish filmmaker Pedro Almodóvar and actor Javier Bardem — signed petitions calling for his release.