Spain: Interesting Facts
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Spain is a country that has a fascinating and complex history. In addition to just its history, there are a number of interesting facts about Spain that can make traveling the country more satisfying for visitors. Some of the most unique facts about Spain include:
- The two climate zones of Spain are divided by the Cantabrian Mountains. The northern division is wetter, colder and rainier and the southern half tends to be dryer and hotter.
- It is still traditional for shops in smaller cities and towns to close down for the afternoon but to open from 9 am until 8 pm to allow shoppers lots of time outside of the hot afternoons to get their shopping completed.
- Tapas are the traditional way to enjoy some light snacks, some great wines and good company. Tapas are usually sold on an honor system with the patron choosing what he or she wants and then letting the staff know how much to bill.
- October 12, the day that Christopher Columbus discovered American in 1492 is a National Holiday in Spain.
- Spain is the fourth largest country in Europe and also has the world’s seventh largest economic base. Spain exports produce such as olive oil, meat, cheese and agricultural produce to many countries of Europe as well as around the world.
- Football, known in some countries as soccer, is the most popular spectator sport in the country. Soccer tournaments are a major part of sporting events throughout the country.
- The guitar was first invented and played in the Andalusian area of Spain in 1790. It was developed by adding a sixth string to the Arabian music instrument the lute.
- There are several different types of Spanish spoken in the country but Castilian Spanish is understood and used by about 75% of the population. It is also the official language of Spain.
- The two largest cities in Spain are Madrid and Barcelona with each having populations of over 5 million people each. The third largest city is Valencia with just over 1.5 million.
- Spain is one of the top three tourist countries in the world with over 52 million visitors to the country each year.
- Traveling to Spain is possible through airplanes, trains, boats and ships and by ground transportation such as cars and buses.
There are many different interesting facts about Spain found online on travel sites as well as in travel books and brochures.