Spain is the second largest country in
modern Europe, situated in the southwest of the continent. Spain,
along with Portugal, covers the Iberian Peninsula which is separated
from the rest of Europe by The Pyrenee mountains. These mountains
form the natural northwestern border of Spain. To the north, is the
Atlantic Ocean. South and East of the country is the beautiful
Mediterranean Sea. West of Spain, is Portugal. As a result of this
diverse landscape, climate becomes pretty diverse too. The oceanic
effects; Mediterranean climate and fresh mountain air combined all
together affect the mainland. This diversity means you can find what
you are precisely looking for, whether it is trekking and skiing
opportunities in The Pyrenees, quaint country life in the high
plateaus or beautiful sandy beaches on the shores.
Spain has always been subject to major
powers throughout the history. 500 years of Roman rule in the dark
ages, a short period of Germanic rule and Muslim invasion in middle
ages, Reconquista and Colonial times that carried the re-united Spain
into being the most powerful kingdom of Europe, are well worth
mentioning.
All these eras left great monuments of
historical value to be explored by the history buffs. The old cities
possess an authentic charm. In their times, Cordoba and Granada were
the richest cities in both wealth and cultural sophistication. It is
claimed that world's most important libraries of the period were
stablished in these cities. Scholars of Muslim and Jewish origins
introduced lots of important technologies to the rest of the world
and revived the Greek Culture by translating ancient scripts and
writings. You will feel that great merged atmosphere of different
cultures in the monuments that made it to this day. The famous
Alhambra Palace is a must-see. Not surprisingly, it accepts about 6
thousand visitors every day! Be wary of the crowds...
There is great heritage in big cities
like Córdoba, Salamanca, Granada, Toledo, Madrid and Valencia. You
will spot architectural qualities of different periods altogether. We
also recommend Art museums of Madrid, Picasso Museum of Barcelona. On
the coasts, Spain is definitely not short of tastefully developed
summer resorts as well as quite natural beaches... Serves every
taste. Inlands, you will find untouched natural wonders, if peace and
quiet is what you are looking for.
Spain is a country of festivals. If you
re looking for good music, you are sure to find it here. The rhythms
and dances of Flamenco will get you moving. Tradition of Bullfighting
still carries on. Youth festivals of summer are a good attraction to
fans of modern music. The famous bull run in Pamplona, the "tomato
festival" and many other colorful gatherings, lively
nightclubs... The locals, especially in major cities, are usually
warm and welcoming.
In the cuisine, seafood is the
strongest point of Spain. Other than seafood, the globally famous
"paela" and "gazpacho" should be mentioned here.
All in all, Spain is a great country to
visit, with the lively people, traditions, cultural heritage and
merry weather!