Spain’s world-famous “El Gordo” lottery recently awarded a record-breaking €4 million top prize worth $2.8 billion, marking one of the largest lotteries in the world. The traditional Christmas draw took place at Madrid’s Teatro Real opera house, attended by around 400 spectators who had queued for hours to participate.
Established over 200 years ago, Spain’s lottery is considered the oldest in the world and attracts millions of participants globally, including foreigners who buy tickets online. Despite the massive prize fund, the top prize remains relatively modest at €4 million per ticket.
This year’s El Gordo draw will be paid out 193 times, with residents of the northern city of Logrono set to share the top prize. Those who own a fraction of the winning number will receive up to €400,000. The lottery has become a Christmas tradition in Spain, where relatives and friends often buy tickets or fractions together.
The tradition dates back to 1812 during the Napoleonic Wars and today, proceeds after operating costs are donated to social causes. With millions of euros at stake, Spain’s El Gordo lottery remains one of the world’s most popular and enduring lotteries.
Source: https://www.dw.com/en/spain-worlds-biggest-lottery-el-gordo-awards-billions/a-71136729