Spain is the westernmost country in Europe, located on the Iberian Peninsula. This country is one of the most beloved holiday destinations in Europe. Here everyone can find something for themselves: Spanish cuisine, folklore, architecture and local color attract and fascinate.

If you prefer to relax in popular places, then you will definitely have plenty to choose from among the cities of Spain. Large-scale events and festivals are held throughout the country every year, and the local architecture will forever enter your heart. We, in turn, present to you the ten most famous and beautiful cities in Spain, each of which deserves to be visited.

Top 10 most famous and beautiful cities in Spain

Barcelona is a favorite holiday destination for thousands of tourists, the business and cultural center of Spain. The city is the second largest with a population of about 5 million inhabitants.

The true heart of Barcelona is La Rambla and the Gothic Quarter. The city could be called an open-air museum thanks to its stunning architecture. Barcelona boasts two thousand years of history, its own Catalan language and a unique culture. Barcelona is the capital of modernism, home to 5 UNESCO World Heritage masterpieces: Park Güell, Palau Güell, Casa Mila, Palau de la Musica Catalana, Hospital de la Santa Cru.

While in the city, you should definitely visit the Sagrada Familia, which is a unique symbol of Barcelona, ​​the Picasso Museum, and the Tibidabo amusement park.

Madrid is the capital and largest city of Spain. Madrid is a lively and friendly city, it is said that it is the city that never sleeps. Located in the geographical center of Spain, Madrid is bordered by Castilla and Leon to the west and Castilla-La Mancha to the south and east. Madrid is a city of kings with its own cultural and artistic history. Here, for example, the world famous Prado Museum is located. About 50 million tourists visit the capital of Spain every year.

The city has many beautiful parks and public gardens, and is also distinguished by the presence of a large number of open cafes (Terrazas) and taverns with excellent food.

The best way to explore the city is on foot. The most famous sights of Madrid are the main square Plaza Mayor, the 18th century royal palace, one of the most visited museums in the world, the Prado Museum, the wonderful Retiro Park, La Almudena Cathedral, the Reina Sofia Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Rastro open market.

The largest city in southern Spain and the capital of Andalusia, Seville, was founded in the 8th-9th century BC. The city is located on the banks of the Guadalquivir River and simply mesmerizes visitors with hundreds of orange blossoms and magical nights. This is the city of Carmen, Don Giovanni and Figaro. Seville is famous for its festivals, but the city is also a center of commercial and industrial activity.

In Seville, it is worth visiting the Seville Cathedral and the Giralda Tower, located in Virgen de los Reyes Square - these are some of the most famous architectural monuments in Spain. Also popular with tourists is Plaza de España, located on the edge of the northeastern part of Maria Luisa Park; Alcazar is a 14th century Moorish palace; Museum of Fine Arts of Seville, Torre del Oro - 13th century tower.

Seville's Andalusian cuisine is also worth mentioning. Here you can try flamenco eggs, sautéed kidneys with sherry, and stuffed artichokes.

Valencia is a dynamic city in the center of the Spanish Mediterranean coast. Valencia is the third largest city in Spain. Along with its magnificent beaches, Valencia boasts a unique appearance, which is given to it by ancient buildings, futuristic architecture, famous museums and galleries. Spain's most famous dish, paella, was prepared in Valencia.

To see the entire city you will need at least a week, its architectural and cultural monuments are so numerous. One of the most famous buildings in Valencia is the City of Arts and Sciences, which is a huge futuristic educational complex. Also famous are the Valencia Biopark and the Turia Garden.

Many tourists come to Valencia for its stunning beaches with soft, golden sand, sparkling waters and cool Mediterranean breezes.

Palma de Mallorca is the capital of the Mallorca region. This is one of the most beautiful cities in Spain. In recent years, many Europeans have chosen the city for a weekend getaway. There are many boutiques, designer and cheap shops. The architecture of the city is unpredictable; village streets are combined here with ultra-modern buildings in the Vogue style.

Palma de Mallorca's most impressive structure is La Seu Cathedral, one of the finest Gothic buildings in the world. Bellver Castle and the Royal Palace are also beautiful and interesting. Palma de Mallorca is a paradise for nightlife lovers with many bars and nightclubs.

Ibiza is a city of entertainment and parties. However, it is worth noting that not only active life is the hallmark of the city. So, for example, here is Old city(Dalt Vila), which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The narrow streets and charm of the city will not leave you indifferent.

The most popular museums in the city are Archaeological Museum, Puget Museum, Museum of Modern Art. Also in the Old Town, the Dominican monastery, founded in 1500, is open to the public. Fans of unusual structures will love the Puig de Molins Necropolis, a cemetery with a thousand-year history of more than 3,500 underground burial chambers.

And, of course, Ibiza is famous for its beach holidays with the possibility of sailing on yachts and many parties.

Cordoba is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is located on the banks of the Guadalquivir River in the center of Andalusia.

Cordoba is a charming city that attracts with delicious tapas, flowers, flamenco, stunning jewelry and fine wines. In addition, Cordoba is famous for its architectural and cultural monuments and museums.

La Mesquita (Mosque-Cathedral) is the most popular place in Cordoba. This is the most great mosque in Spain, built in the 8th century, which was reconstructed into a cathedral in the 13th century. The mosque-cathedral is surrounded by old Jewish and Moorish quarters, which are very interesting in themselves. Also worth seeing in Cordoba are the famous Alcazar gardens (Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos), the Episcopal Palace, the 10th century palace complex Medina Azahara, and the Roman bridge.

8. GRANADA

Granada is one of the most spectacular and important cities in Spain, the last refuge of the Moors. Granada is located in the southeastern part of Spain in the Sierra Nevada mountains. The city is a meeting place of Christian and Muslim cultures. The city's most famous and emblematic monument is the Alhambra Palace, which is a must-see for all travelers to Andalusia. The name of the palace in translation means “red”, it received it thanks to the outer walls of red-brown brick.

Pamplona is located between the Pyrenees and Embro and is the capital of the autonomous region of Navarre in northern Spain. The city is famous for the annual festival of San Fermin with bullfights. This food and dance festival attracts thousands of tourists from all over the world every year from July 6th to 14th.

Like other cities in Spain, Pamplona has a lot to see. Here is the Museo de Navarre, famous for its Roman mosaics, 14th-century wall paintings and art collections from various artists. Tourists should also visit the Pamplona Cathedral, Taconera Park, and the Church of San Satumino.

Pamplona excursions include visits to the world famous beaches of San Sebastian, the famous vineyards of La Rioja and the Pyrenees Mountains.

Malaga is the capital of the Costa del Sol region. It is the largest and most visited city in this region of Spain. Malaga is also an international port - one of three international ports in Spain.

While in Malaga, you should see with your own eyes the Picasso Museum, the Cathedral and the Gibralfaro Citadel. The latter is interesting for its history. Gibralfaro was built in 1040 to protect against pirates. Later, the fortress was completed several times and was not inferior in size to the royal residence.

Malaga is famous for its fish and seafood, which are prepared according to unique recipes. Here you can try a dish called Pescaito Frito (mixed fried fish), marinated fish, squid and anchovies.

Spain is not only jamon, excellent wine and amazing beaches. The cultural heritage of modern Spaniards was greatly influenced by the dominion of many peoples who inhabited these lands. That’s why Spain is a bizarre mixture of styles and traditions in absolutely everything: from architecture to cooking. Accordingly, a lot of interesting things await tourists here. The country's turbulent past is reflected in the numerous museums, ancient castles and majestic temples that abound in the sunny region.

Best cities in Spain

The most interesting and beautiful places for recreation and cultural tourism! List with titles, photos and short descriptions

Barcelona

There are a lot of interesting things here. From architectural monuments: Gothic temples, ancient minarets and squares to modern monumental buildings, such as the famous Barcelona Stadium. You should definitely visit the colorful Boqueria market, the giant Mediterranean aquarium, the famous singing fountains and dozens of different museums: dedicated to Picasso, military, football, chocolate, archaeological and a number of others.

Madrid

The most famous museum in Madrid is dedicated to the symbol of Spain - jamon. In addition to the “delicious” institutions, there are also marine, national, decorative arts, and a number of others. As a seaside city, Madrid has a luxurious aquarium combined with a zoo. Two more huge botanical gardens and a couple of giant amusement parks: Casa del Campo and an analogue of Disney's from Warner Brothers.

Valencia

In addition to ancient castles, cathedrals, and buildings with a long history, Valencia is famous for its Oceanographic Center, which brings together hundreds of representatives of the deep sea from all over the world. Ecotourism lovers visit Albufera Park, a swampy reserve that shelters millions of rare species of birds. Visitors are also delighted by the Prince Philip Science Museum with its unique collections.

Palma de Mallorca

A coastal tourist city without a dolphinarium or aquarium is impossible. Mallorca has both. The region is also rich in caves, the most famous: Dragon, so nicknamed for the stalactites resembling teeth and the huge cold Arta. Charter of cultural recreation while exploring the architecture and visiting museums, you can visit the Kathmandu amusement park with many extreme attractions.

Seville

An excellent place for leisurely cultural tourism. Here you can see majestic religious buildings, such as the Seville Cathedral, the Church of St. Luigi, the Hospital of the Five Sacred Wounds and the tall ancient towers: Harald and Golden. You should definitely visit the Marie-Louise Park, also known as the city botanical garden, home to African and European flora.

Santa Cruz de Tenerife

A town in the Canary archipelago that grew from a fishing village. There are few special attractions here, the settlement is a resort, a traditional Spanish coastal town. That is why it is valued by tourists as a calm place beach holiday. It is worth looking at the ancient temples here: Francis of Assisi, the Immaculate Virgin and the Masonic. And be sure to visit the Auditorio de Tenerife - a grandiose concert hall.

Granada

The pearl of Granada is the majestic brick fortress of the Alhambra, located on the cliff of the Sierra Nevada. In addition, it is interesting to wander through the real labyrinth of narrow streets of Albasin - the Moorish quarter. And in the cave cafes you can enjoy the real rhythms of the famous flamenco, sipping ice-cold sangria and admiring the grace and genuine passion of sultry Andalusian dancers.

Cordoba

The main attraction is the ancient Alcazar, founded by the Romans. The castle absorbed the architectural preferences of all its owners: Visigoths, Arabs and Andalusians. The former capital of the Cordoba Caliphate is one of the most “Moorish” cities in Spain, which is fully reflected in its appearance. Here is the flamenco museum, the ancient Cordoba synagogue and the Mezquita Cathedral Museum, a former mosque that became Catholic church after the Reconquista.

Zaragoza

Another colorful city with a complete mixture of styles. Among the attractions are Moorish buildings like the Aljaferia Castle, which has survived practically without restoration, to Christian basilicas and cathedrals. There is a museum of the sculptor Gargallo and a local analogue of our local history museum - dedicated to the history of Zaragoza. The Expo 2008 exhibition pavilion with the largest freshwater aquarium in Europe attracts tourists.

Malaga

The main attraction towering over Malaga is the 11th century Alcazaba fortress, built by the Berbers in the traditional Arabic style. But extreme sports fans appreciate the city for something else: the local Plaza de Toros, “Bull Square” - a grandiose bullfighting arena, which has a restaurant where they serve horned combatants defeated by brave matadors. In addition to bullfighting, there are a number of interesting museums here: automobile, Picasso, botanical park.

Segovia

A small Castilian town with a history of more than two thousand years. Its entire historical center is included in the UNESCO list. So, as an excursion to the sights, a regular walk through the heart of the ancient settlement is quite suitable. There is the ship-shaped Alcazar castle, several ancient churches and the Segovia Museum, literally overflowing with works of art collected from Spanish monasteries.

Alicante

Rising above the city is Santa Barbara, a huge fortress on top of Bencantil, a majestic rock. This is not the only castle of Alicanet, there is also San Ferdinando: a fairly recent fortress from the Napoleonic Wars era, which turned out to be completely useless. Tourists must visit Mercado Central - a huge food market and local museums, including an archaeological and art museum.

Benidorm

Spanish Manhattan, so nicknamed for its abundance of skyscrapers. An exceptional tourist town with a lot of entertainment. From traditional bullfighting to cutting-edge nightclubs. Those who like a relaxing holiday should prefer the outskirts of Benidorm: there are many quiet national restaurants, amazing beaches, and various antiquities with cultural attractions are within walking distance, for example, the village of Guadalest with its ancient castle.

San Sebastian

A seaside city with a glorious military history. Accordingly, most of the attractions are dedicated to the Spanish fleet. A feature of the architecture is the similarity of the buildings to the French style, for which San Sebastian was nicknamed the Spanish Paris. Here is the Ayate Palace, the former residence of Franco, the Spanish dictator. The prestigious San Sebastian Film Festival of European Cinema is also held here.

Bilbao

The heart of the city is the historical quarter of Casco Viejo with architectural attractions. In addition to interesting antiquities, such as churches and the collection of archaeological finds of the local museum, the town is famous for its modern wonders. For example, the Guggenheim Museum dedicated to contemporary art, the Subisuri Bridge and the “flower dog” - a living sculpture of seventy thousand plants.

Avila

The main attraction of the Castilian city is the longest mixed-type fortress wall in Europe. Its 87 towers and kilometers of fortifications are made in different styles and from different materials: gray stone and sandstone. In addition to walking along the wall, it will be interesting to visit the ancient Catholic basilicas and the center for the interpretation of mysticism, dedicated to the preservation of local folklore about the supernatural.

Caceres

The city is entirely included in the UNESCO list. A kind of “Spanish Prague”, preserved in its medieval form to this day. A populated museum with traditional narrow streets paved with cobblestones trampled by the caligas of Roman legionnaires and the boots of Spanish pikemen. Here absolutely every house is a landmark. It is a favorite location for filming films about medieval Spain, so many of the views will seem familiar to tourists.

Cuenca

It was founded by the Iberian Celts and has had many owners: from the Romans to the Moors. Cuenca is often called the standard of the Spanish province, a quiet town that seems to have fallen asleep for centuries. Main attraction: Casas Colgadas - hanging houses, ancient buildings stuck like nesting places of swallows on a steep cliff. Another attraction is the science museum with the famous time machine model.

Valladolid

Once the capital of Spain, now the industrial center of the state. Here is the oldest long-term construction - the cathedral, the foundation stone of which was laid in 1582, and construction is still in progress. The main attraction is Columbus's house, where the famous navigator ended his life. Now it is a museum of the discoverer with a rich collection of his personal belongings.

Ibiza

Capital of the world famous island Ibiza. Clubbers and partygoers from all over the world come here, but the city has something to show other than crazy parties. The city is very ancient, founded by the sworn enemies of the Romans, the Carthaginians, as much as 2,500 years ago. The main attraction is the castle museum with a collection of archaeological antiquities, Phoenician ruins and the majestic necropolis of Mount Mills.

Salamanca

The cultural center of Spain, the main attractions are architectural, represented by ancient religious buildings. In addition to the churches, you can visit the Diocesan Museum, the most famous exhibit of which is a statue of the Virgin Mary entirely made of ivory and an art museum with a collection of works by Spanish painters. Business card city ​​- the House of Shells, a 16th-century mansion decorated with hundreds of shells.

Cartagena

There are many attractions here, some are the heritage of the Romans and Carthaginians, some were inherited from the Moors and carefully preserved by the Spaniards. Among them are a Roman amphitheater combined with a museum, the ruins of a Punic fortress, the Concepcion Castle depicted on the city coat of arms, and the ruins of the Church of St. Mary. Among the relatively new ones: a school of midshipmen and a maritime museum with unique exhibits.

Marbella

A fashionable resort, not without historical attractions. Among them are Roman baths, ancient towers and the governor's house. The Municipal Museum of Marbella has a rich collection of archaeological wonders, and the Bonsai Garden is also popular. Women come here to visit the statue of Don Juan: according to legend, within a year after this simple ritual, unmarried ladies find their betrothed.

Santiago de Compostela

The main attraction is the grandiose Romanesque cathedral with the adjacent museum, which collected archaeological finds from excavations during its restoration. The cathedral's towers are open to access and there is a special tour of its roof. Notable is the 16th-century Shelter of the Catholic Kings, where you can stay or take a guided tour through its halls for a modest fee.

Tarragona

The city is famous for its well-preserved Roman buildings: the aqueduct (aka Devil's Bridge), the amphitheater, the Palace of Augustus and the ruins of an ancient citadel. Tourists can also visit the Poblet Abbey, the castle-monastery of Santes Creus and the cathedral. Be sure to visit the fishing quarter of El Seraglio with a huge market and Rambla Nova, a popular tourist shopping spot.

Girona

The main attraction is the former Jewish quarter of Il-Kall of the 9th century, built in its original form. The city is surrounded by well-preserved fortifications built by the Romans, including fortified walls and towers. Part of the shaft is suitable for walking. There are several old churches and cathedrals; tourists visit the famous “Arab baths” at the Capuchin convent.

Alcala de Henares

This suburb of Madrid is fully recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Cervantes’s hometown naturally acquired a museum dedicated to him, which tourists are sure to visit. In addition to him, they visit the Comedy Theater and the local university. The town is famous for its frequent and grandiose holidays, during which costume processions and abundant fairs are held.

Toledo

The Alcazar, a huge medieval castle, rises above the city and is a must-see on any tour. In addition to it there is the San Servando Bastion, an example of classic Spanish fortification. They also visit the house-museum of the painter El Greco in Jewish quarter and the Church of St. Thomas. Of particular interest are the exhibitions of the Toledo Museum of the History of the Inquisition with real antique torture devices.

Burgos

In the depths of the local Gothic cathedral there is the tomb of the national hero of Spain, the hero of many romances and literary works, Cid Compeador. In addition to numerous temples and the old bastion from the Reconquista, tourists are attracted by the modern museum of human evolution. Artifacts that testify to the development of the human race are stored here: tools, the first examples of art objects, etc.

Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

In addition to the traditional Spanish abundance of old temples, La Palmas boasts modern attractions. For example, the Atlantic Center for Contemporary Art and the Alfred Kraus Hall, where the annual film festival is held. The Canary Museum contains many curiosities from the archipelago: from mummies, ceramics and ancient weapons to rare objects of pagan cults of the ancient owners of the islands.

Spain is one of the most popular cultural centers in Europe. Every year more and more tourists come here from all over the world, some come here to walk the streets, other travelers prefer to view architectural monuments and paintings by great masters. It’s nice to even just sit in the park, where you can become a participant in colorful and exciting holidays.

Major tourist cities in Spain

Beautiful stone houses, exotic monuments, fountains - these are also found in Spain. Famous historical city, capital of Spain - Madrid clearly shows us the most interesting and significant places in the country. Observing the greatest buildings of the capital of Spain, it is not easy to imagine that once instead of this city there was a small village. The location of the village was near the walls of the Majirit citadel, which gradually grew over time, slowly transforming into a delightful city.

Nowadays, the city of Madrid is the European Capital Palace. It feels like you are in fairy tale world among all these magnificent royal palaces and superb fortresses. Puerta del Sol is the best option to explore the city. It is also called the heart of the city. Madrid has a large number of museums, however, the most important museum is the Prado. There is an invaluable collection of Spanish paintings, Italian, Flemish, and Dutch masterpieces of artists.

Just look at Barcelona once and immediately it is possible to simply fall in love with her. This famous resort town in Spain is full of attractions that cannot even be described until you look at them, numerous quarters such as the Gothic, Ramblas, Park Guell, Familia, Sagrada of Montjuic, a large number of museums and many different things attract the endless arrival of vacationers here. Wonderful Barcelona with all its attractions attracts millions of tourists every year, so it is not surprising when, right at the peak of the seasonal holiday, on the streets of this city you hear not native speech, but the delight of foreigners.

Unforgettable European provinces, flowering valleys - Spain preserves all this. Girona clearly demonstrates to us the combination of antiquity and modernity. Along with historical sights, modern buildings compete quite worthy. A similar situation is observed in beautiful ancient city Tarranoga. Spain gave him cathedrals, beautiful streets.

A map of Spain with cities in Russian is located at the top of the site!

Resort towns of Spain on the Mediterranean coast

Tender azure sea, interesting story, delicious dishes - all this gives Malaga. Spain gifted this paradise favorable climate, interesting sights in the form of port facilities. Local restaurants and cafes serve not only tasty, but also healthy dishes. It is noteworthy that medieval buildings have been preserved here, which help delve into the historical past of the city. In addition, it is worth noting that Malaga is a wonderful medical resort.

The most beautiful city in Spain on the Mediterranean coast is Alicante. Spain is proud of this city, which attracts tourists with its interesting cultural life, unique landscape and affordable housing prices. The main contingent of vacationers are European tourists. Local establishments serve Argentine cuisine, Chinese cuisine. We are sure that everyone would like to stroll along the ancient streets and feel the atmosphere of antiquity that Valencia gives. Spain has enveloped her with wonderful beaches, art galleries and unforgettable Spanish cuisine. This is where you can experience the real Spain, in all its manifestations and guises.

Not only this can surprise Spain, Samou attracts vacationers with its noisy and cheerful atmosphere of a Spanish city on the sea coast. This resort has been called “the beach of Europe” for several years now. This is due to its wonderful sandy shores, vibrant party life, and a huge range of entertainment venues.

Spain - the most detailed information about the country with photos. Sights, cities of Spain, climate, geography, population and culture.

Spain

Spain is a country in Southwestern Europe. It is one of the largest countries in the European Union, located on the Iberian Peninsula and occupying more than 2/3 of its territory. Spain borders Portugal to the west, France and Andorra to the north, Gibraltar and Morocco to the south. The state consists of 17 autonomous communities and 2 autonomous cities and is a constitutional monarchy.

Spain is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. The country is famous for its beaches and sea, cuisine and nightlife, special atmosphere and friendliness local residents. Interestingly, Spain is second only to Italy and China in terms of the number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. In addition, it is a country with great geographical and cultural diversity. Here you can find almost everything: from lush meadows and snowy mountains to swamps and deserts.

Useful information about Spain

1. Population - 46.7 million people.
2. Area - 505,370 square kilometers.
3. The official language is Spanish (in some autonomous communities the local dialect is also considered the official language).
4. Currency - euro.
5. Visa - Schengen.
6. Time - Central European UTC +1, summer +2.
7. Spain is one of the 30 most developed countries in the world.
8. In Spain, some shops and establishments may be closed during the daytime (siesta). Some restaurants and cafes do not serve dinner before 8-9 pm.
9. Tips are included in the bill. If you liked the food or service, you can set aside 5-10% of the bill.

Geography and nature

Spain occupies 80% of the Iberian Peninsula. It also includes the Balearic Islands, the Canary Islands and a very tiny part of the North African coast. The Iberian Peninsula is located in the extreme southwest of Europe.

The relief of Spain is extremely diverse. The main role in it is played by mountains and plateaus. The country is one of the most mountainous in Europe. The largest mountain systems: Pyrenees, Cordillera Betica, Iberian, Catalan and Cantabrian mountains. The largest plain is the Andalusian Lowland, located in the south. In the northeast is the Aragonese Plain. The highest peak in continental Spain is Mount Mulacén (3478 and above). The highest peak in the country is located on the island of Tenerife - the Teide volcano (3718 m).

Tagus River

Largest rivers: Guadalquivir, Tagus, Duero, Ebro. Spain is known for its long distance coastline. There are several thousand beaches along the coast. The largest resorts: Costa del Sol, Costa de la Luz, Costa Blanca, Costa Brava, Costa Dorada, Canary and Balearic Islands.

Thanks to geographical features The flora and fauna of Spain is very diverse. The north of the country is similar to Central Europe, and the south resembles North Africa. In the northwest there are broad-leaved forests, in the south there are deserts and semi-deserts, and the coast is characterized by Mediterranean flora.

Climate

Spain is one of the warmest, even hottest countries in Europe. Although, thanks to the topography, several climatic zones can be found here. The predominant climate is Mediterranean, which is maritime on the coast and arid in the central part. In most regions of the country, summers are dry and hot, winters are quite warm and humid. In the central regions, frosts are not uncommon during cold times.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Spain is April-May and September-October. July and August are very hot in most areas. During the cold season it can be quite rainy.

Story

In the third millennium BC, the Tartessian civilization existed on the territory of the modern Iberian Peninsula. But already in the second millennium BC. Iberian tribes came here, who later mixed with the Celts. In ancient times the Pyrenees were called Iberia. The Iberians quickly settled throughout Castile and built fortified settlements. Around the same millennium, Phoenician and Greek colonies were founded on the coast.

Interestingly, according to the most common theory, the name of the country comes from the Phoenician “i-shpanim”, which translates as “shore of darmans”. The Romans used this word to refer to the territory of the entire peninsula.

In the 3rd century, almost the entire territory of the Iberian Peninsula was subjugated by Carthage. In 206, Carthage lost control of the Pyrenees. From this period, for almost two centuries, the Romans tried to subjugate these lands. The last free tribes were conquered by Rome in 19 BC under Emperor Augustus. Spain was one of the most prosperous and important Roman provinces. The Romans built expensive fortresses here. By the end of the 1st century, more than 300 cities had been founded here, and trade and crafts flourished.

In the 4th-5th century, Germanic tribes penetrated into the territory of Spain, who were soon completely supplanted by the Visigoths. Even earlier, the first Christians appeared here. The Visigoths founded their kingdom here, with their capital in Barcelona and later in Toledo. In the 6th century, the Byzantine emperor Justinian tried to return Spain to imperial rule.

In 711, Arabs and Berbers from North Africa, who were later called Moors, came to the territory of the Iberian Peninsula. It is interesting that they were called to help by the Visigoths themselves (or rather, one of their factions). In just a few years, the Moors conquered almost all of the Pyrenees and formed the Umayyad Caliphate. It should be noted that the Arabs were quite merciful, preserving the property of the people, the language and religion of the conquered territories.

Around the same time, the Reconquista movement arose, the goal of which was to liberate the Iberian Peninsula from Muslims. In 718, the Moors were stopped in the mountains of Asturias. By 914, the Kingdom of Asturias included the territories of Galicia and Northern Portugal. After the end of the Umayyad dynasty in 1031, the caliphate collapsed. At the end of the 11th century, Christians captured Toledo and some other cities. In the 12th century, the Spanish Empire was proclaimed, which arose after the unification of Castile and Aragon and existed until 1157. Later, despite the division, the kingdoms fought together against the Moors. By the 13th century, only the emirate of Granada remained on the Iberian Peninsula.

Despite the power of the Castilian kingdom, the country was tormented by unrest and unrest. Dominance belonged to the orders of knights and powerful nobles. In Aragon, on the contrary, there were many concessions to the estates. In 1469, the dynastic marriage between Ferdinand of Aragon and Isabella of Castile contributed to the unification of the two kingdoms. In 1478, the Inquisition was established, which served as the impetus for the persecution of Muslims and Jews. In 1492, Granada was conquered and the Reconquista ended.

In 1519, the Habsburg dynasty comes to power. In the 16th century, Spain became one of the strongest powers in Europe. An absolute monarchy was established as a form of government. The Spanish kingdom captured Portugal and numerous colonies in South and Central America. Already by the mid-16th century, constant wars and high taxes led to economic decline. During this period, the capital of the kingdom was moved from Toledo to Madrid.

At the beginning of the 18th century, with the death of Charles II, the War of the Spanish Succession broke out. As a result, the Bourbon dynasty reigned, and Spain became “pro-French.” In 1808, a popular uprising broke out, which led to the abdication of the king. Subsequently, the French were expelled from the country and the Bourbon restoration took place. In the 19th century, Spain was tormented by unrest and unrest. The state lost all American colonies. In 1931, the monarchy was overthrown and a civil war began, which Franco won. Francisco Franco established a dictatorship that lasted until 1975. This year Juan Carlos I of the Spanish Bourbon dynasty was crowned.

Spain consists of 17 autonomous regions, two so-called autonomous cities and 50 provinces.

Autonomous communities:

• Andalusia
• Aragon
• Asturias
• Balearic Islands
• Basque Country
• Valencia
• Galicia
• Canary Islands
• Cantabria
• Castile - La Mancha
• Castile and Leon
• Catalonia
• Murcia
• Navarre
• Rioja
• Extremadura

Population

The indigenous population of the country are Spaniards (Castilians), Catalans, Basques, Galicians, etc. The official language is Spanish. In autonomies, the language of the ethnic group or dialect is often spoken. Almost 80% of the population professes Christianity, of which 75% are Catholics. Interestingly, the average life expectancy in Spain is one of the highest in the world. She is 83 years old. The Spaniards themselves are quite friendly, open and emotional. They are noisy and temperamental people. They are often unpunctual, a little lazy and irresponsible.

Tips for communicating with Spaniards:

• Spaniards are very patriotic towards their country or autonomy. You should not raise such topics: “is Catalonia Spain”, etc.
• The vast majority of the population is Catholic, so words and actions that may offend the feelings of believers should be avoided.
• Avoid talking about the colonial past and the Franco regime.
• During lunch or dinner, Spaniards do not start eating until all the guests are seated. They also don't leave until everyone has finished eating.
• Close people or good friends hug or kiss each other on the cheeks when they meet. Otherwise, they are limited to a handshake.

Transport

Information about types of transport in Spain.

Largest airports:

• Barcelona
• Palma de Mallorca
• Malaga – Costa del Sol
• Gran Canaria
• Alicante/Elche

Spain has an extensive network of high-speed trains that connect major cities. Rail services also include long-distance trains and a network commuter trains. There are regular bus services between many cities. The largest cities are connected by highways. Highways here have tolls.

Speed ​​limits:

• 120 km/h on motorways and motorways,
• 100 km/h on normal roads,
• 90 km/h on other roads,
• 50 km/h when driving in populated areas.

The blood alcohol level should not exceed 0.5 g/l. The driver and all passengers must wear seat belts.

Spain is the second country in Europe in terms of the number of visits cruise ships. Main ports of Spain:

• Barcelona
• Palma de Mallorca
• Las Palmas
• Santa Cruz de Tenerife
• Malaga
• Bilbao

Cities of Spain

In Spain there are hundreds of ancient and interesting city. But the most popular are the following:

• - a noisy and vibrant capital that will amaze you with its modernist architecture, wide streets and squares, museums and vibrant nightlife.
• Barcelona is the second largest city in Spain and the capital of Catalonia. Famous sights, masterpieces of modernist architecture and art nouveau by Gaudí are concentrated here.
• Bilbao is a large industrial city.
• Cadiz is considered the oldest city in Western Europe.
• Granada is a stunning city in the south, surrounded by the snow-capped Sierra Nevada mountains.
• Cordoba is an ancient city with a rich Moorish heritage.
• Toledo is an ancient capital with sights from a variety of periods.
• Seville is the capital of Andalusia and one of the most beautiful cities in Spain.
• Valencia is one of largest cities countries. The place where paella was invented.
• Alicante is the resort capital of the east coast and the Costa Blanca region.

In the south of Spain in Andalusia you can find many evidences of antiquity. Cadiz is located here, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Western Europe, with remains of a Roman settlement. Nearby is Ronda - a beautiful city located on steep cliffs. The cities of Cordoba and Granada maintain a rich Moorish heritage. Seville, the cultural center of Andalusia and all of Southern Spain, has a dazzling collection of landmarks and the largest Gothic cathedral in the world.

Crossing north across the La Mancha plains into central Spain, it is worth visiting picturesque Toledo. This ancient Spanish capital and beautiful ancient city is located on a hill. Close to the Portuguese border, Merida has an impressive Roman heritage. If you are interested in relaxation and beaches, then you should go to Alicante, Malaga, the Canary and Balearic Islands.

Popular tourist destinations:

• Costa Blanca - 200 km of coastline, beaches and charming seaside towns.
• Costa Brava is a coast with many seaside resorts.
• Costa del Sol is a sunny beach in southern Spain.
• Ibiza is one of Balearic island, famous for clubs and discos.
• Mallorca is the largest of the Balearic Islands.
• Sierra Nevada is the highest mountain range of the Iberian Peninsula with ski slopes.
• Tenerife has lush nature, volcanoes and excellent beaches.

Attractions

Historically, Spain has been an important crossroads between the Mediterranean and the Atlantic, North Africa and Europe. Thus, a fantastic collection of unique attractions can be found here. The country amazes with the number of UNESCO World Heritage sites, historical and cultural monuments.

The most famous sights of Spain

• Old town of Toledo.
• Historical center of Salamanca.
• Burgos Cathedral in the city of the same name.
• Moorish heritage of Granada and Cordoba.
• Architectural masterpieces of Gaudi in Barcelona.
• Gothic cathedral in Seville and Mudejar style architecture.
• Rock paintings in the Altamira cave
• Historical centers the cities of Cuenca, Merida, Caceres, Zaragoza, Avila and Segovia.
• Romanesque churches of Lleida.
• Ancient Roman walls in the town of Lugo.

Famous festivals:

• Feria de Abril is the best fair in the Pyrenees. If you love folklore, flamenco and wine, then you will definitely enjoy this event. Takes place in April-May.
• Fallas is a festival in Valencia.
• Dia de Sant Jordi is a Catalan holiday.

Accommodation

Spain is an extremely popular tourist destination, so you need to look for accommodation in advance. When traveling here during high season, accommodation will cost more. Many cities, even small ones, are focused on tourism. Therefore, it is not a problem to find accommodation for any groups of tourists and financial capabilities.

Kitchen

The Spaniards love to eat, drink wine and are very proud of their cuisine. Spanish cuisine can be described as quite light with lots of vegetables and a huge variety of meat and fish. I wonder what traditional cuisine does not use a lot of spices, but relies entirely on using high quality ingredients and their taste. The Spaniards' meals are a little different from ours. Their breakfast is light. Lunch is served at 13.00-15.00. After lunch there is a siesta. Dinner is late.

Traditional food and products: paella, jamon, tapas, Chorizo ​​(spicy sausage), Bocadillo de Calamares (fried squid), Boquerones en vinagre (garlic anchovies), Churros (Spanish donuts), Empanadas Gallegas (meat pies), Fabada asturiana (stew), various versions of gazpacho (soups), Tortilla de patatas (egg omelette with fried potatoes). The main alcoholic drink is wine, which is of very good quality here. The most popular non-alcoholic drink is coffee.

Spain is one of the most vibrant countries in Europe, known for its positive people, sunny shores, numerous attractions and incredible history. No trip would be complete without visiting major cities like Madrid and Barcelona, ​​but it's Spain's small towns that provide the ultimate experience with their traditional charm. In many cases, these small towns are much less expensive than larger metropolitan areas, while still offering a deeper immersion in the local culture. You won't regret adding these charming villages to your a tourist route in Spain.

Besalu

In Besalu you can see what Spain was like in medieval times. You won't find any best place destination for getting to know the history and traditions of the country than the city of Besalu. The town located in Catalonia is predominantly pedestrian, which is very convenient, because it is unusually rich in historical attractions. Don't miss the perfectly preserved 12th-century Roman bridge over the Fluvia River, the historic Jewish synagogue and the 11th-century church of San Pere. Bridge – best place to take some photos of the quiet medieval town.

Deya

On the Spanish island of Mallorca, at the base of the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range, you will find the charming village of Deia. The village has long been popular with expats who flock to this picturesque location with steep cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Its countless olive groves still attract tourists to this day. Literature lovers should visit the house of writer Robert Graves, now open to the public. Deia also has a beautiful coastal cave called Cala de Deia, which can be easily reached on foot.

Ainsa

In the shadow of the Pyrenees Mountains there is a medieval town called Ainsa. The main attraction of this town is the Ainsa Castle on the Plaza de San Salvador. It takes its well-deserved place in the list of the most beautiful castles in Spain. Part of the castle has been preserved since the 11th century, although most of the building was built in the 16th century. The castle's two towers have been converted into museums: the Ecomuseum, where you can learn more about the Pyrenees, and the Espacio del Geoparc de Sobabre.

Cudillero

Formerly a small fishing village on the northern coast of Spain, Cudillero has become a very popular tourist destination. This is one of those places where you can enjoy beaches and great seafood without the noisy crowds. Overlooking the Bay of Biscay, the city is famous for its beautiful buildings, among which the Palace of the Fundación Selgas Fagalde and the historic church of Iglesia el Pito stand out. Besides the beautiful scenery of Cudillero, some of the city's most picturesque attractions include Cabo Vidio and the wonderful Playa del Silencio (Quiet Beach).

Castellfollit de la Roca

At the confluence of the Fluvia and Toronell rivers there is a huge basalt cliff created by ancient lava flows. The entire city of Castellfollit de la Roca is perched on this rock. As you approach the city, be sure to stop and take a few photos, because the best views of the city are from below, on the approaches. Be sure to explore Castellfollit de la Roca's landmarks, such as the Trencat Pontine Bridge, the Broken Bridge, and the 13th-century Church of San Salvador.

Olite

In the northern Spanish province of Navarra is the ancient city of Olite. According to historians, Olite was founded by the Visigoths in the seventh century, but only became a full-fledged city in the 12th century. Spectacular Palacio Real de Olite – gothic castle 13th century, former residence of Charles III of Navarre, which is now open to the public. When visiting the famous Iglesia de Santa Maria la Real, don't miss the chance to have a wine tasting at the Museo del Vino (Wine Museum), or learn about Spanish medieval history at the Galerias Medievales Museum.

Morella

Morella is an ancient fortified city in the Castellona region, surrounded by a protective wall. Architecture and history are the main attractions in Morella. Here you can visit the majestic Morella Castle, the Gothic church of Santa Maria la Mayor with its incredible interior decoration, or explore the ancient defensive walls of Morella. The local bakery will delight you with delicious pastries. Be sure to try the flaons, sweet buns filled with cheese. Morella also serves as the main base for exploring the nearby Mount Maestrazgo.

Cazares

The small town of Cazares in the Malaga region is famous for its whitewashed buildings designed in Moorish style, as well as picturesque cliffs overlooking the Alboran Sea. All architecture lovers should definitely visit the ancient Casares Castle, built in the 13th century, as well as the La Encarnacion church. The area is popular with horse riding fans and you can join a group of riders right on the local beach. There are also several excellent golf courses in the area to practice your golf in the gentle Spanish sun.

Alcuzar

Alcuzar is located in Aragon and is one of the cutest little places in Northern Spain. Only a few hundred residents live in the city on a permanent basis, but due to tourists it is always crowded. Situated on a hill, the city's history dates back to the 11th century. Today, thousands of tourists come to Alquezar to admire the historical architecture, explore the artifacts in the Colegiate de Santa Maria Museum and have a great time in the surrounding area. Popular activities include hiking along the Rio Vero Canyon, observing rare bird species in the wild, and even riding ATVs.

Cadaques

In the Girona region, on the Costa Brava, lies the beach town of Cadaques. This city is best known for the fact that the legendary painter Salvador Dali lived here. Art lovers have the chance to visit Dali's house, which has now been converted into a museum. Tiled narrow streets Cadaqués will lead you to charming seafood restaurants and local shops, but the town's main attraction is its stunning beach and open waters of the Mediterranean Sea. It certainly won’t get lost among the best beaches in Spain.

Setenil de Las Bodegas

This small city in Cadiz is so famous because many of its buildings are literally carved into the rock. Situated near the Rio Trejo river gorge, Setenil de Las Bodegas blends harmoniously with the rock of the gorge, serving as an outer wall and protection from the weather. For thousands of years people have inhabited this area and this village is no exception. You will definitely want to have lunch at one of the cafes, on the terrace right under the huge cliff, because you can only do this in Setenil de Las Bodegas.

Frigiliana

In the Malaga area there is a small mountain city called Frigiliana. Most of the houses are built in traditional Andalusian style, and even the narrow streets are whitewashed. Frigiliana is an ideal place for a walk. You can explore it far and wide, carefully following the signs with information about the history of the city. On central square In this small town you can shop, try local food, buy souvenirs or handicrafts, which hold a fair every Thursday. The Ctra Circunvalacion observation deck offers superb views of the countryside and sea.

Albarracin

Albarracin is a lovely town in Aragon, named after a Moorish leader. Between the 12th and 14th centuries, Albarracin was a prosperous city. Much of that early architecture survives to this day, including the Albarracin Cathedral and much of the city walls. This rural mountain town still looks the same as it did several centuries ago, and at the same time is in no hurry to change for the sake of modernity. The city's pink buildings blend neatly into the natural surroundings of the canyon, making Albarracin one of the most stunning destinations for time traveling to bygone centuries.

Mojacar

If you want to explore a small town in Spain that combines the charm of a seaside resort with the history and scenery of a mountain village, choose Mojacar in the province of Almeria. There was already a settlement here more than 4,000 years ago, but much of the bright white architecture dates back to the 14th century. Be sure to visit Torre Pirulico, a 13th-century fire tower from which you can see the entire coastline, as well as the El Mirador del Castillo viewpoint. Head down to Playas Mojacara for great sunbathing and swimming. Without a doubt, this is number one on the list of charming small towns in Spain.