Spain Country Profile

Spain, officially called the Kingdom of Spain, is in southwestern Europe. It is known for its sunny weather, beautiful beaches, rich history, and wonderful culture. Spain shares borders with Portugal and France and is close to Morocco in North Africa. Millions of people visit Spain every year to enjoy its food, festivals, and famous landmarks.

Key Facts

• Capital: Madrid
• Population: About 47 million people (2025)
• Area: 505,990 square kilometers (195,364 square miles)
• Languages: Spanish (official), Catalan, Galician, Basque (regional languages)
• Currency: Euro (EUR)
• Government: Parliamentary monarchy with a king and a prime minister
• Country code: +34

Economy

Spain has a strong economy, known for its tourism, agriculture, and manufacturing. It is one of the most visited countries in the world.

• Main Industries: Tourism, agriculture (especially olives, wine, and citrus fruits), car manufacturing, and fashion.
• Tourism: Over 80 million people visit Spain each year, making it one of the top destinations in the world.
• Famous Products: Spanish olive oil, Rioja wine, cured ham (jamón), and fashion brands like Zara and Mango.

Culture

Spain has a lively and diverse culture influenced by its history and regions. Each region has its own traditions, food, and festivals.

• Food: Spanish cuisine is famous for dishes like paella, tapas, gazpacho, and churros. Meals are often social events, shared with family and friends.
• Art and Music: Spain is home to famous artists like Pablo Picasso and Salvador Dalí. Flamenco music and dance are iconic parts of Spanish culture.
• Festivals: Spain is known for its festivals, like La Tomatina (tomato-throwing festival), Running of the Bulls in Pamplona, and Semana Santa (Holy Week).
• Languages: While Spanish is the main language, some regions like Catalonia and Basque Country have their own languages.

Tourism Highlights

Spain offers something for everyone, from beaches to historic landmarks and lively cities.

Major Cities:

• Madrid: The capital city is known for its royal palace, art museums like the Prado, and beautiful parks.
• Barcelona: Famous for Gaudí’s architecture like the Sagrada Familia and the bustling La Rambla street.
• Seville: Known for its flamenco shows, Gothic cathedral, and the beautiful Alcázar palace.
• Valencia: The home of paella and the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences.

Beaches and Islands:

• Costa del Sol: A sunny coastline with sandy beaches and luxury resorts.
• Balearic Islands: Includes Ibiza, famous for nightlife, and Mallorca, known for its scenic beauty.
• Canary Islands: Volcanic islands off the coast of Africa, perfect for hiking and relaxing.

Historic Sites:

• Alhambra: A stunning Moorish palace in Granada.
• Camino de Santiago: A historic pilgrimage route ending at Santiago de Compostela.
• Mezquita: A unique mosque-cathedral in Córdoba.
• Roman Aqueduct of Segovia: A well-preserved Roman structure.

Travel Tips

• Language: Learn basic Spanish phrases like “Hola” (Hello) and “Gracias” (Thank you). Locals appreciate when visitors try to speak their language.
• Siesta: Many shops and restaurants close for a few hours in the afternoon for a siesta (rest).
• Transport: Spain has excellent trains, including high-speed options like the AVE, which connect major cities.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) offer good weather and fewer crowds.
• Local Customs: People greet each other with two kisses on the cheek. Tapas are often shared when eating out with friends.

Did You Know?

1. World’s Largest Producer of Olive Oil: Spain produces nearly half of the world’s olive oil.
2. Home of Flamenco: Flamenco music and dance originated in southern Spain, especially Andalusia.
3. Second Most Spoken Language: Spanish is the second most spoken language in the world after Mandarin.
4. UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Spain has over 40 UNESCO sites, including the Alhambra and the works of Gaudí in Barcelona.
5. Oldest Restaurant in the World: Sobrino de Botín in Madrid has been serving food since 1725.
6. Bullfighting: While controversial, bullfighting remains a traditional sport in many parts of Spain.
7. Famous Artists: Spain was home to Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalí, and Francisco Goya.
8. Unique Festivals: La Tomatina sees thousands of people throwing tomatoes at each other in Buñol.
9. Tapas Tradition: Tapas were originally small pieces of bread or meat placed on top of drinks to keep flies away.
10. Sagrada Familia: The construction of this famous church in Barcelona started in 1882 and is still not finished.
11. World’s Oldest Vineyards: Spain has some of the oldest vineyards in the world, dating back to Roman times.
12. La Rambla: Barcelona’s most famous street is filled with street performers, shops, and restaurants.
13. Biggest Soccer Rivalry: The rivalry between Real Madrid and FC Barcelona is one of the most famous in the world.
14. Pyrenees Mountains: The Pyrenees create a natural border between Spain and France, offering great spots for hiking and skiing.
15. Free Tapas: In some cities like Granada, ordering a drink often comes with free tapas.
16. King and Prime Minister: Spain has both a king (a symbol of unity) and a prime minister who runs the government.

Final Thoughts

Spain is a country full of life, color, and history. Whether you want to relax on a sunny beach, explore ancient palaces, or enjoy delicious food, Spain has something for everyone. From the lively streets of Madrid and Barcelona to the quiet beauty of the countryside, every corner of Spain offers a unique experience.

By learning a bit about the culture and trying local traditions, you can make your trip even more special. Plan your visit to Spain and get ready to fall in love with its charm and energy!

Note: In 2024, Spain was the second most visited country in the whole world with France being number 1.