Sala Bagdad: A night to remember at one of Barcelona’s most historic clubs

On the border of El Raval and Poble Sec, around Avinguda Parallel, lies Barcelona’s old theatre land, which once hosted an array of concert halls, cabaret shows and entertainment clubs. Today, while few of them have survived, one is still going very strong – Sala Bagdad.

One of Barcelona’s most historic and erotic nightclubs, Sala Bagdad first opened in 1975 and has built up a reputation to become one of the most renowned clubs of its kind in the whole of Europe.

As the name belies, the club is decorated in an exotic Persian style. Step into an opulent reception decorated with geometric tiles, elegant columns and ornate doorways, then head downstairs into the underbelly of the club itself. Bathed in red light, it’s decked in glittering chandeliers, mirrored ceilings, dance poles and images of Bagdad’s girls. At its centre sits a circular rotating stage – the heart of the club.

Sala Bagdad is not only one of the most famous nightclubs in the city; it’s one of the most unique, too. This is not your average club: here, it’s all about one main event – the two-hour live erotic show, which is said to be one of the best in Europe. Here, the audience gets to enjoy not only exotic dance performances and strip teases, but also the chance to participate in the show. Absolutely nothing here is left to the imagination. “Because of its interactive nature, no two of our shows are the same, and the experience completely changes each time you visit,” says the club’s director Juani de Lucia. She has been at Sala Bagdad since its inception and is involved in everything from the choreography and the booking of new talent, to making sure its clients are well looked after.

Given its 90-euro entrance fee, the clientele is more mature than found in your average city club, and its stage attracts stars from around the world. “We even have legendary icons from the United States performing here,” continues Juani de Lucia.

From its opulent décor and unique performers to its interactive live show, a night at Sala Bagdad is an experience you won’t forget in a hurry.

www.bagdad.com