The country of Spain is bordered by France in the north-eastern part, the Canary Islands in the southern part, and the Balearic Islands in the western part. Owing to a wide range of exotic destinations and attractive sites, Spain Tourism has much to offer. From sprawling green fields to the arid regions in the south, from the snow-capped mountains in the north to the white sand beaches, Spain has almost everything that an ardent traveler can crave for. Another worth-mentioning feature of Spain is the amazing and unique black sand beaches of the volcanic islands of Canary.
Spain Tourism states some of the major and the most prominent cities in Spain - Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia and Seville. The other important places offering exotic sightseeing spots are Cadiz, Alicante, Salamanca, España verde, Puerto del Rosario, Palma de Mallorca, and many more. Spain has some exclusive and popular places apt for interesting sightseeing. To name a few are Ibiza, Costa Brava, Castille-La Mancha, and Avila.
There are innumerable cathedrals, castles, palaces, parks and beaches scattered all over the country of Spain. Spain Tourism has brought some of the notable ones for you - Malaga Cathedral, Castell d’Aro, Royal Palace, Crystal Palace, Monte Perdido National Park, Picos de Europa National Park, La Concha Beach in San Sebastian, and Tarifa Beach in Andalusia.
Apart from such fascinating places and tourist attractions, Spain Tourism has also brought for you the various thrilling and adventurous sports available in Spain. Some are hiking, trekking, exclusive ballooning, sky diving and scuba diving. Other forms of recreation and activities include golf and boating. Such onshore and offshore sports will simply add more vigor to our trip and make it all the more exciting.Spain Tourism further provides some information regarding transport in Spain. In Spain the different cities are well-linked by means of modern trains which provide frequent and prompt services. However, buses are the most easy and affordable modes of transport within a city. You can travel comfortably in luxurious coaches in and around a city.
History of Spain
Spain has a strong historical past. It has seen the rise and fall of many powers. Waves of invaders and colonizers have followed over the millennia, including the Celts, Phoenicians, Carthaginians, and Greeks, and by about 200 B.C., the area was controlled by the Roman Empire. After the fall of the Roman Empire, the Suevi, Vandals and Alans entered Spain, but they were defeated by the Visigoths who, by the end of the 6th century, has occupied virtually the whole of the Peninsula.
The Muslim invaders entered from the south at the beginning of the 8th century. During the next 750 years, independent Muslim states were established, and the entire area of Muslim control became known as Al-Andalus. This period is remembered in part for a flowering of philosophy and religious thought, and in part for continuing tensions between Christians and Muslims. What became known as the Reconquest of Spain by Christian forces began almost immediately in the 8th century.
In 1469, the marriage of the Catholic Monarchs, Isabella of Castile and Ferdinand of Aragon, prepared the way for the union of the two kingdoms and marked the opening of a period of growing success for the Kingdom of Spain, since during their reign, Granada, the last stronghold of the Muslims in Spain, was conquered and, at the same time, in the same historic year of 1492, the caravels sent by the Crown of Castile under the command of Christopher Columbus discovered America.
Columbus's arrival in the New World, and the development of the Spanish Empire ushered in an age of glory for Spain.
During these next three hundred years, Spain's colonial empire expanded and was known as the largest empire in the history of the world. Financed in major part by the riches pouring in from its colonies, Spain became embroiled in wars and intrigues in continental Europe. The dynastic family of the Hapsburgs took control of the Spanish throne, followed by the crown being worn by the Bourbon family. Spain's European adventures led, however, to successive bankruptcies, and reduced Spain to a second-tier European power by the end of the 18th century.
In 1808 Joseph Bonaparte was installed on the Spanish throne, following the Napoleonic invasion, although the fierce resistance of the Spanish people culminated in the restoration of the Bourbons in the person of Fernando VII. In 1873, the brief reign of Amadeo of Savoy ended with his abdication, and the First Republic was proclaimed. However, a military proclamation in 1875 restored the monarchy and Alfonso XII was proclaimed King of Spain.
During the 19th century Spain saw series of struggles among elites, as well as struggles between elites and newly-empowered republican and liberal forces. Experiments in democracy alternated with returns to more authoritarian rule, and pressure grew in Spain's regions for increased autonomy. The arrival of the Industrial Revolution, late in the century, brought wealth to an expanding middle class in some major centers; however the Spanish-American War at the end of the 19th century led to the loss of almost all of Spain's remaining colonies.
The first third of the 20th century continued the political turmoil despite a rising standard of living and increasing integration with the rest of Europe. Spain was neutral in First World War however in 1936 Spain was plunged into a bloody civil war. The war led to a fascist dictatorship, led by Francisco Franco which controlled the Spanish government until 1975. Spain was officially neutral during the Second World War; the post-war decades were relatively stable. While tensions remain, modern Spain has seen the development of a modern democracy, one of the fastest-growing standards of living in Europe.
Culture of Spain
Spain which is officially the Kingdom of Spain is located in Southern Europe. It is a democratic country which is organized as a parliamentary monarchy with a hereditary monarch and a bicameral parliament. The official language of this developed country is Spanish. Spain enjoys a temperate climate. According to the 2006 census Spain is populated by almost 44,708, 964. Though Spain remained neutral in the two World Wars, it was devastated during the Civil War. Spain has the eighth-largest economy in the world. Culture of Spain is enriching and inspiring.
Spain is rich in art and craft. With its artistic heritage it has produced numerous artists and architects. Spain even produced wonderful artists. Various works of handicrafts are worth mentioning.
The Culture of Spain traces back to Iberian and Latin influences. The Spanish Culture is shaped by the history of the nation, its Mediterranean climate and its geography. This enriching culture of Spain has lots to offer. Spain produced some of the most beautiful architectural structures of the world. The historical buildings which stood the test of time are now designated World Heritage sites. Several architectural structures include Roman aqueduct, Merida, Roman bridge over the River Guadiana, an arch of Trajan, and an amphitheatre. The architecture in Southern Spain reflects its Moorish history like Alhambra. Several mosques and synagogues are exquisite work of architecture.
Cultural output in music and dance of Spain is incomparable. The Western and Andalusian classical music along with popular music industry and diverse styles of folk music thrives in Spain. However modern Spain is more interested in rock and roll, heavy metal, punk rock and hip hop. Flamenco is the best acknowledged variety of Spanish folk music. Some famous Spanish singer includes Camaron de la Isla and the guitarist Carlos Montaya. The best form of dance styles includes Contradanza, Flamenco, Pasodoble and Sardana.
The Culture of Spain remains incomplete without its delicacies. Cuisine of Spain is largely influenced by the assortment of sea foods. Taste, richness and delicacy of the Spanish food excel in its delicious flavors. Some of the important cuisines of Spain include Chorizo, Cocido, Gazpacho soup, Sangria and Tortilla de patatas.
There are almost 94% people who follow Roman Catholic and 6% people of Spain follow other religion.
Different regions of Spain have distinct regional dress. Extremadura and other small cities of Castille have a sober dressing sense while Andaluz indulge in gorgeous fashion statement. Barcelona is the most stylish cities in Europe.Spain is strict about their customs and etiquette. The Spaniards shake hands when introduced or met. While men pat each other female friends may kiss each other on both cheeks starting with the left. You should remain standing until you are asked to sit down. You should not start eating until the host starts. Do not get up until the guest of honor does.
Popular Destinations in Spain
Spain, situated in the south-western part of Europe is an incredible tourist location. Owing to its various interesting natural sites like the snow-capped mountains, white sand beaches, sprawling green plains and the valleys, Spain is thronged by tourists from all over the world. Not only these, but the tourists are also fascinated by the different structures and architectural wonders including the various palaces, parks, cathedrals, castles, beaches and museums. Popular Destinations in Spain will let you know more about this aspect.
Madrid and Barcelona are the most visited and the most sought-after Popular Destinations in Spain. The former represents a modern city with stupendous and astounding architectures reflecting cultural heritage and tradition. The Plaza Mayor and the Plaza de la Villa are the prominent places in this city. The magnificent Royal Palace, the Botanical Gardens, the Casa de Campo and the famous Prado Museum are some of the popular things to be seen in Madrid.
Popular Destinations in Spain lets you know that Barcelona features the Placa de Sant Jaume which includes the Town Hall and the palace of Generalitat. In this city, you will notice a fine blend of Greek, Roman and Gothic architectural styles. Owing to the Olympics in 1992 which was held in Barcelona, the city became all the more famous.
An exquisite combination of natural beauty and man-made architecture can be seen in the gorgeous places of Malaga and Marbella. The vibrant and colorful city of Valencia is another significant place in Spain. It is one of the Popular Destinations in Spain. There are many other cities in Spain where you will get to see a perfect balance between tradition and modernity. To name a few of such cities are Seville, Cordoba, Granada and Bilbao.
There are many other Popular Destinations in Spain. Some of them are Cadiz, Alicante, Santiago de Compostela, Zaragoza, Huelva, Espana verde, Salamanca, Gerona, Gomera, Albacete, Puerto del Rosario, and Guadalajara.Tourist Attractions in Spain
Planning for a holiday trip? Great! Traveling is very essential at least once every year. It gives you an opportunity to breathe in the fresh air and help you to relax. Traveling through a new place is a very nice experience. You get a chance to know new people and experience a new culture. So what about Spain? If you haven't gone to the country before, make Spain your next holiday destination and explore the beauty of the country during your trip. Spain is one of the most beautiful countries located in the southern region of the European continent.
The country of Spain is very attractive and the natural scenario of the country is also awesome. There are numerous Tourist Attractions in Spain, scattered all over the cities of the country. Various National Parks, amusement parks, museums, cultural centers, exotic beaches and many more Tourist Attractions in Spain are waiting for you. All these National Parks are full of wild animals and various types of colorful birds. Never miss the chance to explore the hidden beauty of the country of Spain. Visit the amazing cities of Spain and find out what you can visit there. So what are you waiting for? go ahead and visit these Tourist Attractions in Spain.
Spain Festivals & Events
If you are visiting Spain for the first time then keep one thing in mind, you will come across festivals always. You can be in Spain at any time of the year and you will find all the cities of Spain enjoying some festival and events. Among innumerable festivals and events, some are really important. These important Spain Festivals & Events are as follows:
If you visit Spain in the month of January then you can see the festival Festividad de San Sebastian, celebrated in memory of Lord Wellington's conquest of San Sebastian in 1812.
Enjoy Spanish snacks in the Seville Tapas Fair in February. In March you can enjoy wonderful flamenco performances in Spain by renowned flamenco dancers in the Festival de Jerez in March. Join the festival Fallas de San José and enjoy the street parties and the fireworks.
If you want to enjoy Semana Santa in April while in Spain then you should go to Cordoba, Granada or Malaga. If you are in Alcoy, Alicante then you can enjoy the festival of Moros y Cristianos. In this festival you can witness mock battles of Moors and the Christians. Your must visit place in Spain should be Seville so that you can participate in Spain's biggest annual party at the Seville April Fair. Want to see the famous bullfight of Spain? Then you must visit Spain in May and watch the festival San Isidro in Madrid, the most famous of all the festivals and events.
Visit Spain in June and join the festival La Romería del Rocio, a pilgrimage of about million people to the shrine of Virgin at Huelva. Any music lover must visit Spain in July and enjoy the Festival de Cordoba, the International guitar festival. You should never miss the famous bull running festival San Fermin. Have you seen people fighting with tomatoes? If not, then you must go to the festival La Tomatina, famous among Spain Festivals & Events for its craziness and see how people fight with tomatoes!
You can enjoy the Cava week in September sipping Catalan Champagne. You can go and enjoy flamenco performances in Spain with sherry in Fiestas de Otoño, a three week party; or if you love food go for the paella festival Fiesta del Arroz.
Pay homage to Columbus in Spain during October! Hispanidad is a festival dedicated to Columbus's landing in America.
On your visit to Spain you will find all the cities of Spain are celebrating some festival or other. Enjoy them and feel the spirit of Spain!
How to Get in
Spain is one of the popular tourist destinations in Europe and attracts travelers from all across the globe. How to get there to Spain is not difficult to answer as there are several modes of transport making it all easy.
The quickest and comfortable way to get to Spain is by air and flights connect all the important cities of the Spain and also important cities of the world. The main airport in Spain is Madrid's Barajas International Airport. The Other important airports are Cuatro Vientos Airport and Torrejón de Ardoz Airport.
Spain is located in the Southwestern Europe and bordered with Bay of Biscay, Mediterranean Sea, North Atlantic Ocean. The traveler can take a ferry as a transport to go to Spain. The other option to get to Spain is by bus and this would greatly help the budget trailers.Hotels in Spain
