Seminci: A Peek Behind the Scenes of the Film Week

Seminci traditionally takes place in October and marks a crucial date on the international festival calendar. The Golden Spike (Espiga de Oro) is the coveted main award, which has historically been granted to cinematic icons such as Ingmar Bergman, Luis Buñuel, and François Truffaut, long before they were celebrated in Hollywood.

A Touch of History: From Religion to Auteur Cinema

The history of Seminci is intrinsically linked to the cultural evolution of Spain. The festival was founded in 1956, initially under the name Semana de Cine Religioso de Valladolid (Valladolid Religious Film Week). The focus was initially on films with strong religious and moral values.

Historical Milestones:

• 1956: Founded as Semana de Cine Religioso.

• 1960s: Thematic opening begins with the renaming to Semana Internacional de Cine Religioso y de Valores Humanos (International Week of Religious and Human Values Film).

• 1973: Following a cultural shift, the festival radically transforms and receives its current name, Semana Internacional de Cine de Valladolid, focusing strongly on auteur cinema and independent film. This change established Seminci as a crucial platform for works that are often avant-garde and critically engaged.

• 1974: The Espiga de Oro (Golden Spike) becomes the main prize, symbolising the agricultural heritage of the Castile and León region.

Today, Seminci is regarded as one of the most important addresses for sophisticated European and international productions. It is known for launching careers and premiering films that subsequently gain global recognition.

The Festival Experience: Programme and Atmosphere

The core of Seminci is the Sección Oficial (Official Section), where films compete for the Espiga de Oro. However, the festival offers a rich variety of other categories:

• Punto de Encuentro (Meeting Point): A section dedicated to debut works and productions by independent filmmakers, focusing on narrative style and themes.

• Tiempo de Historia (Time of History): Documentary films that address current social and historical issues.

• Miniminci: A special section designed to inspire children and young people with cinema.

The atmosphere during Seminci is intense and elegant, yet simultaneously warm and accessible. Screenings primarily take place at the Teatro Calderón and its adjacent cinemas, centrally located in the city. The daytime is dominated by press conferences and industry talks, while the evenings revolve around galas and world premieres.

Your Journey with BLISSAIR: Comfort and Elegance

Your trip to Valladolid should begin as relaxed as the festival itself. BLISSAIR offers flexible and comfortable travel options to reach the heart of Castile.

Key Airports for Arrival

Valladolid has its own small airport, the Aeropuerto de Valladolid (VLL), also known as Villanubla Air Base. However, direct international flights may be limited. The most convenient options for BLISSAIR guests are:

1. Madrid-Barajas Adolfo Suárez Airport (MAD):

   • Distance to Valladolid: Approx. 160 km (100 miles).

   • Advantage: MAD is the largest and best-connected airport in Spain. BLISSAIR offers numerous direct flights from major European cities to Madrid.

   • Onward Travel: From Madrid, the fastest and most comfortable way to reach Valladolid is via the high-speed AVE (Alta Velocidad Española) train. The journey takes as little as 55 to 65 minutes and is a relaxing alternative to driving. The Madrid-Chamartín station offers the best AVE connections.

2. Valladolid Airport (VLL):

   • Distance to the City: Approx. 13 km (8 miles).

   • Advantage: The shortest distance.

   • Onward Travel: A taxi or the local bus shuttle (Linecar) will take you directly to the city centre in about 15 to 20 minutes.

BLISSAIR Tip: We recommend arriving via Madrid (MAD) and continuing with the AVE train. Enjoy a refreshment at the BLISSAIR Lounge in Madrid after your flight before boarding the high-speed train, which brings you almost silently to the Castilian capital.

Accommodation for the Stars: Hotel Recommendations for Seminci

During the film festival, demand for central and stylish accommodation is high. Here are a few recommendations that combine comfort, elegance, and proximity to the festival venues.

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BLISSAIR Service: Our concierge service can pre-book the best suites at these hotels for you to ensure your ideal festival stay.

Culinary Castile: Restaurant and Tapas Recommendations

Valladolid is not only a film city but also a culinary stronghold, famous for its traditional Castilian cuisine, its tapas culture, and the excellent wines from nearby regions like Ribera del Duero and Rueda.

Fine Dining & Tradition: Main Courses

1. Trigo (Michelin Recommended):

   • Category: Haute Cuisine with Local Flair.

   • Focus: Located centrally, Trigo offers sophisticated, creative cuisine rooted in Castilian tradition. The tasting menu provides an exquisite culinary journey.

2. El Taller Arzuaga (in Quintanilla de Onésimo):

   • Category: Gourmet, Michelin Star (2025).

   • Focus: Avant-garde cuisine with deep Castilian roots, situated within the Arzuaga winery. An unforgettable culinary experience that pairs perfectly with a wine tasting.

3. La Parrilla de San Lorenzo:

   • Category: Traditional Castilian.

   • Focus: A must-visit for lovers of Lechazo Asado (roast suckling lamb), the true specialty of Castile. The meat is tender and prepared traditionally in a wood oven. A deep, authentic flavour experience.

The True Spain: Tapas Culture

Valladolid thrives on its tapas culture, which mainly unfolds around the Plaza Mayor and the nearby side streets, especially Calle Pasión and Calle Correos. The tapas (pinchos) here are often small, artistic creations.

• Los Zagales: This venue has won numerous prizes in local and national tapas competitions. Be sure to try their award-winning, creative pinchos.

• Jero: Famous for its Tapa de Solomillo (Beef Tenderloin Tapa). A classic that always impresses.

• Villa Paramesa: An upscale tapas bar that reinterprets traditional recipes with modern techniques.

BLISSAIR Wine Recommendation: Be sure to accompany your meals with a robust red wine from the Ribera del Duero D.O. or a crisp white wine from the Rueda D.O. – both regions are just a short drive from Valladolid.

Excursions and Sights: Valladolid and the Surrounding Area

When the screenings take a break, Valladolid offers a rich history and architecture waiting to be discovered.

City Highlights in Valladolid

1. Plaza Mayor:

   • One of the largest and oldest main squares in Spain. It is rectangular and serves as the central meeting point and heart of the city. Perfect for observing the lively bustle over a coffee.

2. National Museum of Sculpture (Museo Nacional de Escultura):

   • Housed in the Colegio de San Gregorio, one of the most stunning examples of late Gothic Spanish architecture (Isabelline style). It holds one of the world's most important collections of Spanish polychrome wood sculptures – a major cultural highlight.

3. Valladolid Cathedral (Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción):

   • A monumental Renaissance structure, designed by Juan de Herrera (the architect of El Escorial). Although unfinished, its sheer size and style are impressive.

4. Campo Grande Park:

   • The "Large Field" is the city's main park, a green oasis with romantic gardens, a pond, and numerous peacocks roaming freely.

Day Trips to the Region: Castile's Treasures

Valladolid’s central location makes it an ideal base for exploring the Castile and León region.

1. Ribera del Duero Wine Region:

   • Activity: Visit one of the world-famous wineries (Bodegas) in Peñafiel, such as Pago de Carraovejas or Bodegas Protos, for a tour and tasting. The region is known for its exquisite Tempranillo red wines.

   • Sight: The impressive Castillo de Peñafiel, perched high on a hill and housing the Provincial Wine Museum.

2. Segovia:

   • Distance: Only about one hour by car (or reachable via AVE train).

   • Sights: The breathtaking Roman Aqueduct, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the majestic Cathedral, and the fairy-tale-like Alcázar (Castle). A day trip not to be missed.

3. Salamanca:

   • Distance: About 1.5 hours by car.

   • Sights: One of Europe's most beautiful university cities. The Plaza Mayor is widely considered the finest in Spain.

The Semana Internacional de Cine de Valladolid is a profound tribute to cinematic art, unfolding in the heart of historical Spain. It offers the perfect blend of cultural depth, film innovation, and authentic Castilian lifestyle.

With BLISSAIR, you travel comfortably and in style, enjoy the best accommodation and unforgettable gastronomy, while immersing yourself in the captivating world of international auteur cinema.

Book your exclusive flight to Spain with BLISSAIR now and experience the magic of Seminci!