Ownership & classification
Founded: 1978
Ownership
El Periódico de Catalunya was launched in Barcelona on 26 October 1978 by Antonio Asensio Pizarro's Grupo Zeta. Since Prensa Ibérica bought Grupo Zeta in 2019, the paper is owned by Editorial Prensa Ibérica, the regional-press conglomerate founded and controlled by the Javier Moll family (Prensa Ibérica became, alongside Vocento, one of Spain's two largest regional newspaper groups). It is published in parallel Catalan and Spanish editions.
Funding
Financed commercially through print sales, advertising and a digital subscription/paywall model. Like other regional Spanish dailies it also receives some institutional advertising and public subsidies (Catalan/Spanish administrations), and Prensa Ibérica has carried significant debt.
Affiliation & stance
Editorially progressive/centre-left, traditionally close to the Catalan Socialists (PSC/PSOE). It is classified INDEPENDENT because it is privately and commercially owned by the Moll family's Prensa Ibérica rather than controlled by a party, church or the state, even though its line leans centre-left.
Editorial lean
- Our estimate
- Lean Progressive
- Measured from coverage
- Centerbased on 457
75/100
Factual
70/100
Objective
566
Articles
566
reports
Factual: How accurately its articles report the facts, judged against primary sources and the cross-outlet consensus. Only articles that cite their sources are counted.
Objective: How neutral the writing is — whether reporting keeps the writer’s own preferences and opinions out of the article.
Recent coverage
29N forces Junts and ERC to redefine their electoral strategies against the clock
The early November 29 general election call by Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has forced Catalan parties to quickly adjust their electoral strategies. Junts, led by Jordi Turull, Miriam Nogueras, and Mónica Sales, had previously withdrawn support from the government but now faces pressure to redefine its approach amid uncertainty over whether exiled leader Carles Puigdemont might run. Meanwhile, ERC (Esquerra Republicana de Catalunya) is dealing with internal divisions between its leadership in Catalonia and the faction controlled by Gabriel Rufián in Madrid. The PSC (Socialist Party of Catalonia) is facing declining poll numbers, while the Comuns (Catalan Left) remain uncertain about their positioning. The situation highlights the complex dynamics within Catalan politics as parties navigate the challenges of forming alliances and defining their platforms ahead of the snap election.

Frente Amplio again eludes Podemos's primaries and bases an agreement on its joining the alliance
Frente Amplio, now known as Sumar, has once again avoided participating in open primaries proposed by Podemos for October 14–15, insisting that any agreement would require Podemos’s incorporation into their alliance. The alliance claims this collaboration has been built over a long period. Ernest Urtasun, Minister of Culture, stated they would not engage in public debates but welcomed proposals from others. Irene Montero, Podemos’s candidate, had suggested holding the primaries soon before the deadline for registering coalitions, which was triggered by the Prime Minister earlier this week. Urtasun emphasized that Frente Amplio consists of many organizations working together and would only consider agreements if Podemos joined them. During a joint appearance with Mónica García, Verónica Barbero, and Antonio Maíllo, Urtasun stressed that on November 29, when general elections will take place, Spaniards will choose between advancing rights or retreating under those who spread hatred. Mónica García noted that Frente Amplio supports Sánchez’s decision to call early elections and aims to include all groups within their coalition, including Podemos, Compromís, Mès, and Chunta Aragonesista.
Feijóo launches pre-campaign with promise to reward companies with less medical labor shortages
Alberto Núñez Feijóo, leader of Spain's Popular Party (PP), has launched his pre-election campaign by promising to reward companies that reduce medical sick leave among their employees. Speaking to business leaders in Madrid, Feijóo stated that he finds the current rate of absenteeism 'unreasonable' and emphasized that workers' justified medical absences are one of Spain's main problems. He announced plans to allow private insurance providers collaborating with the National Social Security Institute to grant medical discharges in certain illnesses, though specifics were not provided. Feijóo outlined a potential 'bonus model' for businesses that maintain low sick leave rates through good medical care, employee motivation, and workplace climate. The announcement comes amid early elections called by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, which Feijóo claims were triggered by Sánchez’s personal interests rather than national needs. He accused Sánchez of using fear from ongoing legal investigations to divide Spanish society.
Macias withdraws his report on Turull because he does not want his ruling to urge the Supreme Court to apply the amnesty as the majority demands
Judge Macias has withdrawn his proposal regarding Turull to prevent his ruling from encouraging the Supreme Court to apply amnesty, as requested by the majority. The decision reflects concerns over the potential implications of such a legal action. This development is part of ongoing discussions around amnesty laws and their application within the judicial system. The move highlights the sensitivity surrounding this issue and the influence of majority opinion in shaping legal decisions.
The electoral advance catches tens of thousands of Spaniards abroad with their vote frozen in a judicial and consular limbo
The early election has left tens of thousands of Spaniards abroad with their votes frozen in a legal and consular limbo. The issue arises due to the accelerated electoral process, which has created complications for overseas voters who were unable to cast their ballots before the new deadline. Many of these individuals are now facing uncertainty regarding whether their votes will be counted or if they will need to go through additional bureaucratic procedures. This situation highlights challenges in ensuring equal participation for citizens living outside Spain during national elections.

Jesuits expel priest Francesc Peris for abusing more than 20 minors
The Jesuit order has expelled Father Francesc Josep Peris Boixeda, aged 84, after confirming allegations of sexual abuse against more than twenty minors in Catalonia and Bolivia between the 1970s and 2005. The decision follows internal investigations by the Company of Jesus, which concluded that the abuses were proven. The expulsion marks the end of Peris' tenure within the religious order, reflecting serious disciplinary action taken against him.

ERC bets as candidate to 29-N for Rufián, but the deputy and spokesman in Congress asks for "a minimum of conditions"
The article discusses the Spanish political party Esquerra Republicana de Catalunya (ERC) considering Gabriel Rufián as their candidate for the upcoming general elections on November 29. Elisenda Alamany, ERC's secretary general and spokesperson, has expressed support for Rufián to lead the electoral list, stating he is the best option available. She mentioned they will start the internal process to announce the full candidacy on October 17. The article notes that Oriol Junqueras, the party leader, does not intend to run as a candidate but wants to become president of Catalonia's regional government. It highlights tensions within ERC between Rufián and the party leadership, particularly regarding the formation of a left-wing coalition. Sources close to Rufián suggest he still believes in a provincial-level alliance against the rise of far-right politics, while the party leadership has distanced itself from such ideas.
The most beautiful spa in Spain in autumn is in Cantabria and has healing waters for the nerves: at the foot of a cave World Heritage, surrounded by forests and perfect for a getaway
The article highlights a beautiful spa in Cantabria, Spain, known for its therapeutic waters that soothe nerves. It describes the location as being at the foot of a World Heritage Cave, surrounded by forests, making it ideal for a short getaway. The piece emphasizes the natural beauty and wellness benefits of the site during autumn.
It has less than 5,000 inhabitants, but receives almost 20,000 tourists on vacation: the 13th century whaling village accessible by the Bilbao metro, with the only underwater winery in the world
The article highlights a small village with fewer than 5,000 residents that attracts nearly 20,000 tourists during holidays. Known as a 'whale village' from the 13th century, it is accessible via the Bilbao metro system and features the world's only submerged winery. The piece emphasizes the unique blend of historical heritage, modern infrastructure, and tourism appeal of this remote location.
Patricia Conde, on the city of Castilla y León where her roots are: "At the moment, it has never crossed my mind to return"
Patricia Conde, una figura pública española, expresó en una entrevista que, hasta el momento, no le ha venido a la mente regresar a la región de Castilla y León, donde nació y tiene sus raíces. La declaración surgió durante una conversación en la que reflexionaba sobre su vida y decisiones personales. Aunque no se especificaron las razones detrás de esta decisión, la frase sugiere un vínculo emocional con su lugar de origen y una posible preferencia por mantenerse en su actual entorno. La entrevista destacó su conexión con su tierra natal, pero también resaltó su elección personal de permanecer en otro lugar.
The oldest functioning Roman lighthouse in the world is in Galicia and has a 13-kilometer promenade: it is a World Heritage Site and its entrance costs less than 4 euros
The article reports that the oldest functioning Roman lighthouse in the world is located in Galicia, Spain. It highlights the site's status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and mentions that visitors can enjoy a 13-kilometer coastal promenade nearby. The entry fee is noted to be less than 4 euros, emphasizing accessibility and affordability.
The forest full of nicalos and perfect for walking in October, considered "the paradise of Spain's mycology": it is one of the largest pine forests in Europe
The article highlights a forest in Spain renowned for its abundance of mushrooms such as níscalos and boletus, making it an ideal destination for mushroom enthusiasts during October. This forest is described as 'Spain's paradise of mycology' and noted as one of Europe's largest pine forests. The piece emphasizes the natural beauty and ecological significance of the area, particularly during the autumn season when mushroom hunting is at its peak.
Ángel Arroyo, a "savage" on his bicycle
The article titled 'Ángel Arroyo, un ‘salvaje’ sobre la bici' by El Periódico features a profile of Ángel Arroyo, a cyclist known for his aggressive riding style. The headline uses the term 'salvaje,' which translates to 'wild' or 'savage,' suggesting a portrayal of Arroyo as a fierce competitor. The piece likely discusses his performance in recent races, his reputation within the cycling community, and possibly controversies surrounding his riding behavior. While the article focuses on his athletic achievements, the choice of words implies a subjective perspective that emphasizes intensity and risk-taking.






