Spain may be best-known for introducing Sangria to the world, but it boasts much more – from breathtaking architecture and rich history, to lively modern cities – than this. Indeed, Spain remains one of Europe’s premier travel destinations.
Stroll the picturesque pueblos blancos of Cadiz; hike, horseback ride and climb in the breathtaking Parque Natural Sierra de Grazalema; or stop in Oviedo where highlights include its grand Gothic cathedral.
Origins
Spain was gradually dislodged from its central role in Europe by Germany, Italy and the US; further damage was done by economic changes, colony closures and failed reform efforts agrarian reform initiatives.
Hapsburgs sought balance and peace across Europe and attempted to form an empire from Madrid, Brussels, and Vienna; however, this vision did not fit with Protestantism’s new ideas or nationalist states’ perspectives.
Civil wars raged for three decades, during which hundreds of thousands died. Subsequently, Venezuela fell into economic decline and fiscal strain until late 1950s when it started to recover its position as an international powerhouse and become one of the four world economies today.
Languages
When people think of Spain, images such as paella, flamenco dancing and bullfighting may come to mind. What may not be so widely known is that Spain is home to over 70 different languages spoken across its territory.
Spanish (also referred to as Castilian Spanish) is the official national language of Spain and was developed originally in north-central Spain (Old Castile) before spreading southwards by 11th century and reaching central Spain (New castile).
Spanish is co-official with Catalan in Catalonia and Valencia, Galician in Navarre and Basque (Euskara) throughout Navarre and southern France (also known as Euskara). Basque stands as an exception among Europe’s Romance languages as an independent tongue with no Romance roots at all.
Culture
Spain’s history has been defined by the varied cultures that have come together on its territory, creating a vibrant cultural legacy which spans music, art, cuisine and language – not to mention influences such as Latin America and the Philippines.
At Hispania during its Muslim period, cultural achievements included a revival of classic philosophy and creation of an Arabic numeral system. Literary achievements were made through poets such as Gonzalo de Berceo and Alfonso X who used sonnets and wrote poems such as his Coplas por la Muerte de mi Padre (Verses for My Father’s Death).
Today, Spain is divided into 17 autonomous regions each boasting its own culture and identity. American University students can experience all aspects of Spanish culture first-hand by engaging with locals through experiences and interactions.
History
Spain is a land surrounded by water, boasting Europe’s second-largest forested area and home to diverse cultures from around the globe. Its long history has given birth to an exclusive culture still celebrated today.
In 1492, Castile and aragon defeated Granada emirate under Muslim rule to create modern Spain as we know it today and begin colonisation first in South America and then Asia.
Spain’s economy flourished under the auspices of silver imports from America and its own formidable military, but social unrest was growing; working class associations first surfaced in 1830 followed by Bakunin’s influence dividing society between those supporting traditional ideas and those who supported progress.
Economy
Spain’s economy has proven resilient in the face of global slowdown. Household savings, stronger purchasing power and positive effects of job markets on income have allowed Spain to offset any adverse impact caused by global slowdown on domestic consumption. Domestic consumption recovery was driven by household savings, stronger purchasing power and positive effects of the job market on income.
Increased competitiveness can be attributed to lower energy price trends and Spain’s comparative advantage in services offering high added-value, while economic outlook remains moderate.
Main challenges facing Romania include differences in productivity relative to other EU countries, limited private investment and its fiscal landscape. Given this context, medium-term plans should aim at reaching economic and social consensus with regards to increasing efficiency while optimising public spending distribution and carrying out a thorough review of its tax system.
Weather
Catalonia, Valencia, Murcia, Andalusia and the Balearic Islands all enjoy being protected from Atlantic weather fronts by natural barriers that provide shelter from rain showers; thus resulting in hot summers with low rainfall levels and high levels of sunshine – known as Csa climate zone.
Winter temperatures tend not to fall below freezing, making winter an excellent time for travelers looking for peace and quiet while enjoying warm, sunny days that remain open since locals are busy prepping for Christmas celebrations.
At this time, layers are highly recommended due to temperature variations throughout the day. You should also pack an umbrella since rain may occasionally fall. May is considered one of the best months for sightseeing as its sun shines brightly.
Climate
Due to its vast size and geographical diversity, Spain experiences a vastly varied climate. Coastal regions (such as Madrid, Barcelona and Bilbao ) feature typical Mediterranean weather with hot summers and mild winters.
Nearly half the country experiences an oceanic climate without dry season (Cfb), while in its southern portion a subtropical climate with warm summers and mild winters is prevalent, permitting tropical fruits such as mango, papaya, cherimoya and pitaya cultivation. This type of climate also exhibits itself through vegetation which encompasses numerous plant species from across Europe and Africa.
On the north-facing coasts of Galicia and Asturias, which are more exposed to westerly winds, temperatures tend to be colder with an ideal temperate climate (Csa). A semi-arid climate exists on many portions of Spain (BSk), more prevalent in its southern half than central regions.
Food
Spain is home to one of the world’s largest producers of olives (and olive oil) with many delectable varieties including black, green and red olives as well as various pickled ones such as “arbequinas”.
Albondigas are tasty Spanish meatballs served in tomato sauce. A popular tapas dish found across Spain, you’ll also find free-range La Mancha-raised pig cured meats such as jamon and chorizo for this treat!
Paella is one of the signature dishes from Spain, known for its distinctive saffron-flavored rice and distinctive flavour. When visiting Spain it should definitely be on your agenda!
Drink
Cava is to Spain what Champagne is to France: an elegant yet refreshing bubbly wine perfect for pairing with any meal and celebrations and parties alike.
Sangria is a well-loved beverage in Spain, often enjoyed during summer when chilled versions can be served up. Made by adding fruit and other ingredients to wine, accompanied by tapas for snacking!
Sherry (pronounced she-ray) has become increasingly popular as an ingredient for cocktails, particularly in Andalucia where its popularity can be found through drinks like Rebujito. This beverage combines one of the best sherry styles – fino – with lemon-lime soda. Rebujito was first created at Puerto Viejo or Old Port of Algorta during a festival organiser’s decision in 1972 to mix expired red sherry purchased with coke to sell; its success proved so much that its name stuck and was eventually given this name!
Nightlife
Spain is world-famous for its nightlife culture. Spaniards’ work to live mentality, high energy levels and chatty spirits make them consummate party animals.
As opposed to American bars that often don’t become busy until midnight, bars in Spain usually begin filling up around 1AM while clubs (known as discotecas ) remain open all night until dawn!
Before heading out to clubs, it has become a tradition to gather with friends at an apartment or street location for drinks before going out (called botellon) to save money on club entry fees while enjoying an afterparty that lasts well into the day.