Unlock the Secrets of La Primitiva: A Complete Guide to One of the Oldest Lotteries in the World
These days La Primitiva draws one of the biggest jackpots in its history and the next millionaire may be very close. Find out how to be you!

Are you intrigued by the allure of winning a life-changing sum of money? Have you ever wondered about the secrets behind one of the world's oldest lotteries, La Primitiva? If so, you're in the right place! In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the fascinating world of La Primitiva Lottery, exploring its history, rules, and strategies for maximizing your chances of winning. Let's go!
Introduction
Lotteries have been a part of human history for millennia, serving various purposes from funding public works projects to providing entertainment and hope for a better future. Among these, La Primitiva stands out as one of the oldest and most prestigious lotteries still in operation today.
What is La Primitiva Lottery?
La Primitiva Lottery is a Spanish lottery game that dates back to the 18th century. The name "La Primitiva" translates to "The Primitive One", reflecting its long-standing tradition. It is managed by SELAE (Sociedad Estatal Loterías y Apuestas del Estado), the Spanish public entity responsible for conducting various lottery games. La Primitiva is known for its large jackpots, with the record standing at a staggering €101.7 million won in October 2015.
History and Curiosities of La Primitiva
La Primitiva was first introduced in 1762 as the Royal Lottery, in order to raise more money for the state coffers without creating a new tax, making it one of the oldest lotteries worldwide. It has undergone various changes over the centuries, evolving into the modern version of the game that we know today, which began in 1985. Over the years, La Primitiva has paid out hundreds of millions of Euros in prizes, creating countless millionaires and changing lives forever.
How to Play La Primitiva Lottery
Playing La Primitiva Lottery might seem complex at first glance, but it's actually quite straightforward once you understand the rules. Here, we'll break down the steps to participate in this exciting game.
Rules and Regulations
First and foremost, it's important to note that players must be at least 18 years old to participate in La Primitiva Lottery. To play, you simply choose six main numbers from a pool of 1-49 and one additional number, known as the 'Reintegro' (translated as 'Refund'), from a pool of 0-9. To win the jackpot, you must match all six numbers and the 'Reintegro'. If there are multiple jackpot winners, the prize is shared equally among them.
Choosing Your Numbers
When choosing your numbers for La Primitiva, you can opt to select your own or use the Quick Pick feature to have them randomly generated for you. Some players prefer to use significant dates or numbers, while others prefer the randomness of the Quick Pick option. Remember, each combination of numbers carries the same odds of winning, so choose the method that brings you the most enjoyment!
Prizes at stake
The first thing you should understand about La Primitiva prizes is that there are several categories of prizes, depending on the number of numbers you match. In total, there are 5 prizes plus the special prize and the Reintegro, which adds up to 7 categories of prizes.
These prizes can be won by matching different types of numbers: the numbers of the draw, the Reintegro and the Complementary number. The draw numbers are the first 6 numbers drawn from a total of 49 (1 to 49). The Reintegro is an additional number drawn from another drum from a total of 10 numbers (0 to 9). And finally, the Complementary is an extra number that is drawn from the remaining numbers of the first pool of 49 numbers, resulting in an additional chance of winning prizes for those who match 5 of the 6 numbers.
Knowing the types of numbers that are drawn during the draw, the different prize categories can be assembled:
Special prize: 6 numbers + Reintegro
1st prize: 6 numbers
2nd prize: 5 numbers + Complementary
3rd prize: 5 numbers
4th prize: 4 numbers
5th prize: 3 numbers
Reintegro
Understanding Probabilities
The odds of winning increase as you move down the prize category, since fewer numbers need to be matched, making it easier to win. Conversely, the prizes get smaller as we match fewer numbers.
Except for the 5th prize and the Reintegro, which has a fixed value for each winner, the rest of the prizes of La Primitiva are established with a percentage of the prize fund, which is calculated based on the collection for each draw and the accumulated prizes. In La Primitiva, if nobody wins the jackpot or special prize, it continues accumulating and increasing its value draw after draw.
In the following table, you can consult the probabilities and amounts of each of the prizes of La Primitiva:
Category | Probabilities | Percentage allocated to the prize |
Special prize | 1 : 139.838.160 | 20% + Jackpot |
1º prize | 1 : 13.983.816 | 40% |
2º prize | 1 : 2.330.636 | 6% |
3º prize | 1 : 55.491 | 13% |
4º prize | 1 : 1.032 | 21% |
5º prize | 1 : 57 | Fixed prize of 8,00€ |
Refund | 1 : 10 | Fixed prize of 1,00€ |
Choosing Number Patterns
Some players believe in identifying patterns in past lottery results to predict future outcomes. They analyze historical data to determine 'hot' and 'cold' numbers - those that appear frequently or infrequently in draws. However, it's important to note that every draw is independent, and while these strategies can help you define your numbers, past results do not influence future draws.
Using Quick Picks
Many players prefer to use the Quick Pick feature, which generates a random set of numbers for your ticket. According to several studies, a majority of lottery wins come from Quick Pick tickets, largely because more players choose this method.
Joining a Lottery Syndicate
A lottery syndicate is a group of people who pool their money to buy a large number of tickets, thereby increasing their chances of winning. If any of the tickets win, the prize is divided among the syndicate members. This can be a cost-effective way to play the lottery and improve your odds, albeit with smaller individual winnings.
Tips for Maximizing Your Chances
Beyond understanding the rules and developing a strategy, there are a few additional tips that can help maximize your chances of winning La Primitiva.
Managing Your Budget
It's crucial to set a budget for playing the lottery and stick to it. Never spend more than you can afford to lose, and remember that playing the lottery should be fun, not a financial investment.
Consistency in Playing
Consistent play can also increase your chances of winning. By playing regularly, you give yourself more opportunities to hit the jackpot. Just remember to stay within your budget!
Setting Realistic Expectations
With odds of winning the jackpot at 1 in 139,838,160, it's important to set realistic expectations when playing La Primitiva. Enjoy the process of playing, and view any winnings as a bonus. Remember that even small prizes can bring you large sums of money.
Learning from Past Winners
Consider studying stories of past La Primitiva winners to gain insights and inspiration. While their success may not guarantee your own, learning from their experiences can provide valuable lessons and strategies.
Conclusion
La Primitiva Lottery offers an exciting opportunity to dream big and potentially change your life forever. As one of the oldest lotteries in the world, it has a rich history and has created countless millionaires throughout its existence. By understanding the rules, developing strategies, and managing your expectations, you can enhance your enjoyment of the game and increase your chances of winning. Remember to always play responsibly and within your means. Good luck!