The Smurfs’ Spanish invasion

SPAIN is to get its second Smurf-themed town.

The Andalucian village of Juzcar is already known around the world for its bright blue houses, painted as a publicity stunt for The Smurfs in 3D movie in 2011. Villagers decided to keep the blue paint instead of reverting back to being a typical ‘pueblo blanco,’ and as a result the village has attracted more than 200,000 tourists with its unique colour scheme.

Now, the city of Lleida is set to become home to the world’s first Smurf theme park. Lleida Town Hall has announced that the establishment of the €47 million park is expected to attract revenues of around €14 million in its first year.

The Smurfs – known as ‘pitufos’ in Spain – are a favourite with Spanish kids and the theme park is aimed at families with children aged between two and 12, according to Spanish daily 20 minutos. The Smurfs are a Belgian creation and have spawned cartoon series, toys, movies and video games.