History of Spain
As a coastal country, Spain has had an interesting and complex history. Many of the existing landmarks and historical buildings found throughout Spain show the history of Roman invaders, Moors, Jewish and Christian settlements as well as the Celts.
The earliest artifacts found in Spain date back to at least 50,000 years B. C. These early settlements are found in the caves of Granada and the area around Cova Negra. It is believed the first settlers arrived from North Africa to inhabit this warm and fertile area. The Celts invaded this highly desirable area around 1200 b.c. The Greeks and Phoenicians moved into the southern Mediterranean areas of Spain around 1100 b.c. These settlements were then again invaded by the Carthaginians, who were in battle with the huge Roman armies. Although the Carthaginians did establish settlements in Spain, especially in the eastern areas, the Romans moved through the whole of the country, securing it as a Roman stronghold. (more…)
January 12, 2008
Spanish Recipes
Since the country of Spain has so many different areas and cultural food specialties, it is hard to identify the one food that is uniquely Spanish. The influence of Africa and Europe is evident in both the types of foods as well as the preparation of the food. Seafood is an important element in many Spanish dishes, as is olive oil, fresh produce and the cheeses and meats that are made within the country.
Two of the most popular places to find Spanish recipes are either through a regional Spanish cookbook or through online recipe sites. In most of these sites you will have to first identify the area of Spain you are interested in, then look through recipes that are common in that area. Since most Spanish recipes are simple, yet elegant and refined, it is easy to find what you need for the preparation in your local grocery store. (more…)
October 10, 2007
Spain Weather
The first and most important thing to say about the weather in Spain is that it is by no means uniform. Spain is a big country, and there is quite a difference between the climate of north and south. But it is also a very mountainous country in parts, and the weather is considerably influenced by altitude – it would probably be quite a surprise for many people to learn that Granada, in Andalusia, is thinking of bidding for the Winter Olympic Games!
Green Spain
Spain can be divided into two parts on the basis of its climate. The northern part, especially the northwest, is exposed to the Atlantic Ocean and fenced in on the south and east by several different mountain chains. This results in a relatively wet and humid climate, and this part of Spain is known as “la España Verde” (Green Spain).
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September 24, 2007
Spain General Information
For anyone going to Spain, travel information is essential. But if you’re going to understand everything that’s going on around you, so is more general information about the country.
Why You Need Good Information
At a very general level, for example, it’s important to know what kind of weather you normally get in the different regions of Spain at the time of your visit, so you know what kind of clothes to take with you. Or which recipes are local specialties, so you have a better idea of what to order in the restaurant.
You obviously need to know what the currency is, and what different denominations of coins and notes exist in Spain, so you don’t get cheated with your change. And you don’t want to be seen as a complete outsider and foreigner (even though you are!), so it’s a good idea to know what Spanish customs are in different situations.
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