Spain

The land of flamenco and matadors, world-famous beaches and spicy recipes, home to one of the most romantic languages in the world - Spain.

A diverse country in Mediterranean Europe, Spain (or España) shares the Iberian Peninsula with Portugal, dominating the western end of the Mediterranean Sea. Before the turn of the 17th century, Spain was the center of a global empire with territories that encompass North, Central, and South America, Africa, and the Philippines. By the 20th century, Spain has overcome one of the bloodiest civil wars in history and emerged proud and centered in itself.

This is the Spain you will see when you visit or come to make your new home.

Background

The country is known for its great beaches and fun nightlife. But more than that, Spain also offers many cultural regions and historic cities (and what fascinating histories they harbor!). In fact, many visitors who know Spain for its reputation for having the best beaches in Europe would find themselves pleasantly surprised to find the great geographical diversity the country offers.

To the north are rolling, green hills reminiscent of Ireland while to the south is Moroccan culture at its best - the culture is practically threaded into the fiber of life, making its mark here and there and revealing itself in the landscape and architecture.

Speaking of architecture, if you want to see for yourself the tremendous role that Spain played in shaping the world and how its history permeates every street, every alley, then you need only to open your eyes wider. You will see it reflected in its prehistoric cave paintings, in its crumbling castles and Moorish palaces, and in its various Roman ruins. You will see it remaining still in its fascinating modern buildings with their unique contemporary architecture and the Gothic and Renaissance cathedrals. Everywhere you go, you will see glimpses of it. It's impossible not to notice.

Things to See and Do

The country is wondrously diverse that to fit all you can see and do in this country would be an impossible feat. As it is, let us limit ourselves to the top five.

The first place you should visit is the Alhambra in Granada. Occupying a vast portio of the city centre, the Alhambra was once a Moorish fortified palace. The place is so huge that it would take a whole day to thoroughly explore it.

Another great spot to check out is Frank Gehry's amazing architecture. These architectural sights include the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, the new conference and convention center near Malaga Airport, and the huge copper fish sunning itself on Barcelona Beach.

The Sierra Nevada Mountains are fantastic for skiing. Located in Andalucia, the spot is also conveniently close to other legendary tourist spots, such as Malaga and Torremolinos.

Spain is the land of fiestas. Your visit will never feel complete unless you take part in a local village fiesta. Most of these are religious in nature, however, the gaiety is infectious.