Primitiva

Primitiva, commonly referring to La Primitiva, is a traditional Spanish lottery run by Loterías y Apuestas del Estado (SELAE). It is among the oldest lotteries in Spain, with origins in the 18th century as a state-run game intended to raise public funds.

Players select six numbers from 1 to 49. Draws occur twice weekly, typically on Thursdays and Saturdays. In each draw, the six winning numbers are announced, and a complementary number is drawn from the remaining pool to determine higher-tier prizes.

Prizes are awarded for matching all six numbers (the jackpot) and for other combinations, such as five numbers plus the complementary number, as well as five numbers, four numbers, and three numbers. When the top prize is not won, the prize pool can roll over to future draws, creating a larger jackpot.

La Primitiva is administered by SELAE, and tickets are available through authorized retailers and online platforms. Results are published by SELAE and other media. Prizes are subject to taxation under Spanish law, with the payout amount received by winners determined after withholding where applicable.

The Primitiva forms part of Spain’s national lottery ecosystem alongside other games such as EuroMillions and El Gordo. It retains a strong cultural presence in Spain, reflecting a long tradition of state-sponsored gaming and public revenue generation.