Spain Biography. Spain

Music and dancing in the style of Flamenco, bathers of bulls, a lot of sun and fantastic beaches ... In fact, Spain can offer tourists much more. Spain has been many centuries for many centuries cultural Center Europe. In this country preserved a large number of Monuments of the times of Celts, ready, Romans and Moors. Alhambra Palace in Granada, Mosque Cathedral of Mesquite in Cordoba and Royal Palace In Madrid, there will be no less interesting to tourists than the beaches of Costa del Sol or, for example, Costa Dorada.

Geography of Spain

Spain is located on the famous Pyrenean Peninsula, in the south of Europe. In the West, Spain borders on Portugal, in the south - with Gibraltar (belongs to the UK), in the north - with France and Andorra. In North Africa, Spain borders Morocco (their common border - 13 km). In the south and east, Spain borders with the Mediterranean Sea, and in the West and the North-West - is washed by the Atlantic Ocean.

Spain includes small Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean Sea, "Dog's Islands" (so once called Canary Islands) In the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Africa, as well as two semi-autonomous cities - Ceuta and Melilla in North Africa.

Total area of \u200b\u200bSpain - 505,992 square meters. km, including islands, but a total length state border - 1 917 km.

Mainland Spain is mountain countrywhere the plateaus is dominated and mountain arrays. The main mining systems in Spain - Pyrenees, Cordillera, Cantabrian Mountains, Catalan Mountains, as well as Sierra Nevada Mountains. SAMI high top in Spain - dormant volcano Tadeid on the island of Tenerife (3,718 m).

Capital of Spain

The capital of Spain is Madrid, in which more than 3.3 million people live. Madrid was founded by Moors in the middle of the X century.

Official language

Spain is a multilingual country. During the entire territory of Spain, the official language is Spanish (he is Castilsky).

Other official languages:

basque - distributed in the Basque country and in Navarre;
catalan - distributed in Catalonia, as well as in Valencia and on Balera;
galician - in Galicia.

Religion

About 96% of Spain's population are Catholics belonging to the Roman Catholic Church. However, only 14% of the Spaniards go to church every week (or more often).

In addition, about 1.2 million Protestants and more than 1 million Muslims now live in Spain and more than 1 million Muslims (a lot of people from Morocco and Algeria).

State device

Spain is a constitutional monarchy in which the head of state, according to the Constitution, is the king.

The source of legislative power is the Cortenes, consisting of the Congress of Deputies (350 people are elected to it) and the Senate (258 people).

The main political parties in Spain are the right "People's Party", "Spanish Social Working Party" and "Communist Party of Spain".

Spain consists of 17 communities (regions) and 2 autonomous cities (Ceuta and Melilla).

Climate and weather

In general, the climate of Spain can be divided into three main climatic zones:

the Mediterranean climate, which is characterized by hot summer and enough cold winter (central and north-central Spain);
half-handed climate (Southeast Spain, especially in Murcia and in the Valley of Ebro);
marine climate (in the north of Spain, especially in Asturias, Country of Basque, Cantabria, in part, in Galicia).

In the Pyrenees and Sierra Nevada, the Alpine climate, and in the Canary Islands - subtropical.

In Spain in January average temperature The air is 0s, and in July - + 33c.

Seas and oceans

The Mediterranean Sea in the south and east is washes the shores of Spain, and in the West and the North-West of the country is Atlantic Ocean. In the north of Spain there is a big bisciy bay.

The average temperature of the sea in Spain in May:

Costa Dorado - + 17c
Costa Brava - + 17c
Costa Costa - + 17c
Almeria - + 18c
Costa del Sol - + 17c
Costa Blanca - + 17c

The average temperature of the sea in Spain in August:

Costa Dorado - + 25c
Costa Brava - + 25c
Costa Calida - + 25c
Almeria - + 24c
Costa del Sol - + 23c
Costa Blanca - + 25c

Rivers and lakes

Despite the fact that Spain is a mountainous country, a large number of rivers flow through its territory. Self large rivers In Spain - Tahoe (1,007 km), Ebro (910 km), Douro (895 km), Guadiana (657 km) and Guadalquivir (578 km).

According to scientists calculations, there are several hundred lakes in Spain, and more than 440 of them are mountain lakes. The largest lake in Spain - Sanabria, whose area is more than 11 thousand square meters. km.

History of Spain

The ancient Greeks called the indigenous inhabitants of the Pyrenean Peninsula (territory of modern Spain) by ometers. Iberian tribes, according to archaeological finds, came to the Pyrenean Peninsula from East Mediterranean during Neolithic.

At about 1200 BC. Celts that began to mix with Iberian tribes on the Pyrenees. Then on the Pyrenees founded several of their cities, the Phoenicians - Gadir (Cadiz), Malaka (Malaga) and Abdar (Adra). Then in the south of Spain along the coast Mediterranean Sea Ancient Greeks built their colonies.

In the time of Punic Wars between Rome and Carthage, Roman legionnaires invaded Spain and won the large part of it. Then Spain fell completely under the power of ancient Rome.

In 409 N.E. Goths invaded the Pyrenean Peninsula and founded their kingdom there. However, in 711, N.E. The Kingdom of Westpreneurs Palo under the blows of Moors from Africa. In the end, Masramen managed to conquer almost all of Spain. In the X century, his own Muslim Khalifat was created in Andalusia.

However, Christians are trying to return the Spanish lands captured by Moors. This period in the history of Spain is known as reconquist.

The Kingdom of Spain itself was established in 1469 (this year was a wedding of Isabella Castilskaya and Ferdinand Aragonsky), but only in 1492 the last Arab Emir fled from the territory of Spain (this happened after the fall of Granada).

After in 1492, Christopher Columbus opened America, Spain received tons of silver and gold from there, thanks to this one of the most influential and powerful countries of that time.

In 1808, the troops of Napoleon Bonaparte invaded Spain, but the Spaniards had a stubborn resistance. After Napoleon's defeat in 1815, the King Ferdinand IV was restored to the Spanish throne in the Battle of Waterloo.

Because of the economic crisis and political instability in the XIX century, Spain lost almost all of their colonies. In 1895, after the war, Cuba was lost, the last colony of Spain was lost.

From 1936 to 1939 in Spain continued Civil War, the winner of which the nationalists came out led by Franco. During World War II, which began in 1939, Spain adhered to neutrality, although he sympathized with Germany.

In 1975, Franco died, and a constitutional monarchy was created in Spain.

In 1985, Spain was adopted in NATO, and in 1992 she joined the European Union.

Culture of Spain

On spanish culture big influence Ancient Greeks were provided, as well as ancient Romans. Until now, a large number of ancient Roman monuments have been preserved in Spain. After Spain won Mauri in the early 700s, the Arabs began to be determined on Spanish culture. In general, all Middle Ages in Spain is the confrontation of Arab and Christian cultures.

It so happened that the Spaniards have noticately showed themselves in literature and in painting, although, of course, in Spain there were talented architects, philosophers, doctors and philosophers.

The most famous Spanish writers and poets - Lope de Vega (years of life - 1562-1635), Francisco Kuevedo and-Wielgas (1580-1645), Miguel de Cervantes Saoveaven (years of life - 1547-1616), Baltasar Grasian (1601-1658 ), Benito Galdos (1843-1920), and Camilo Jose Sela (years of life - 1916-2002).

The most famous Spanish painters - El Greco (years of life - 1541-1614), Francisco de Errera (years of life - 1576-1656), Huspé de Ribera (years of life - 1591-1652), Diego Velasquez (years of life - 1599-1660) , Alonso Kano (years of life - 1601-1667), Francisco Goya (years of life - 1746-1828), and Salvador Dali (years of life - 1904-1989).

For many of us, Spain is Flamenco and Corrida, who have a long-term tradition.

The dance and song "Flamenco" appeared in the Middle Ages in Andalusia. The emergence of this dance and musical style is associated with the Gypsies, but from the end of the XVIII century Flamenco becomes the traditional Spanish dance.

Now every two years in the Spanish Seville is held international Festival "Flamenco", which is called "Bienal De Flamenco". This festival collects thousands of participants and visitors.

Another well-known Spanish tradition is Corrida, the bull battle, which the Iberian tribes that lived on the Pyrenees in about 3000 centuries began. BC. Initially, the murder of the bull was ritual, but over time, it became real art. From the middle of the XVS century, the corrida exists already in many Spanish cities.

Now the bulls are held in some Spanish cities - "Enceerro". During these occasions, the bulls are trying to catch up with people running through the streets. Sometimes it is possible to bulls. The most famous "Entorro" - in Pamplona.

Kitchen

Spanish cuisine is characterized by a large variety of dishes. This is understandable, because in every region, Spain carefully store not only its cultural, but also culinary traditions. In general, the Spain's kitchen can be attributed to the Mediterranean cuisine. Two characteristic elements of Spanish cuisine - olive oil and garlic.

In the Mediterranean Spain (from Catalonia to Andalusia) for cooking often use seafood. Cold soups are traditional here (for example, Gaspacho) and rice dishes (for example, Paella).

For inner Spain, dense hot soups and stewed meat are characteristic. Ham is popular here and various cheeses.

For northern coast Spain (Atlantic Ocean), including for the Basque Country, Asturias and Galicia, are characterized by meat, fish and vegetables.

Cochinillo asado (fried piglet);
Gambas Ajiillo (fried shrimps with garlic and chili);
Paella (Rice Dish);
Pulpo a la gallega (octopus in Galician);
Jamon Iberico & Chorizo \u200b\u200b(Iberian ham and spicy sausages);
Pescado Frito (this is any fried fish);
Patatas Bravas (this is fried potatoes cooked in acute sauce);
Tortilla Espanola (Omelet in Spanish);
Queso Manchego (Spanish sheep cheese);
Gazpacho (this is a traditional cold tomato soup).

Sunny Spain is impossible to imagine without wine. The traditions of winemaking on the Pyrenean Peninsula laid the ancient Greeks, who founded their colonies there. Now in Spain produced a large number of a wide variety of wines.

In our opinion, in the top 5 of the best red wines in Spain includes:

Wine Lopez de Heredia
BERNYA (Alicante)
Vinyes Josep - Sola Classic (Priorat)
Tempranillo - Baron Fernand (Valdepeñas)
Divus - Bodegas Bleda (Jumilla)

Top 5 best white wines in Spain:

Xarlel-Lo - Clar de Castanyer (Penedés)
Amalia - Rubicon (Lanzarote)
Wine Mas Plantadera Blanco Roble - Celler Sabate (Priorat)
Malvasia Semidulce - Bermejo (Lanzarote)
el Copero (Utiel-Requena)

Sights of Spain

It is possible, Spain and does not take 1st place by the number of sights, but it is indisputable that in this ancient country Tourists have something to see. The top ten places of interest in Spain, in our opinion, are the following:

Cities and resorts of Spain

The largest Spanish cities are Madrid, Barcelona (1.7 million people), Valencia (850 thousand people), Sevilla (720 thousand people), Zaragoza (more than 610 thousand people), and Malaga (about 550 thousand people.).

The common coastline of Spain is about 5 thousand kilometers. This means that in Spain there are a large number of beautiful beaches with clean water. Despite the fact that most tourists for some reason choose Costa Blanca and Sunny Costa del Sol, in Spain there are beautiful beaches and in other resorts.

Top 10 Spanish beaches, in our opinion:

La Conca Beach - San Sebastian
Playa de Las Catedrales - Galicia
Playa Del Silencio - Asturias
SES ILLESTES - Located at Formentera, Balearic Islands
Beaches of Sitges - Near Barcelona
Nerja - Costa del Sol, Andalusia
La Barrosa - This beach is located in Chiclan de la Frontera
Tarifa - Andalusia
Gandia - Costa Blanca
Playa de Los Peligros - Santander

When they say O. beach resorts Spain, immediately remember Costa del Sol, Canary Islands, and oh-in Ibiza. But in Spain there are still Costa Brava, O-in Tenerife, oh-in Mallorca, Costa Dorada, Balearic Islands, Costa Blanca, Costa del Marezme, and Costa de la Luz.

Souvenirs / Shopping

Returning from Spain, tourists may simply not raise their suitcases, so many of them can be souvenirs. Therefore, we advise tourists who visited Spain, to stay on the next best Spanish souvenirs:

Olive oil, which is the best in the world (the opinion of the Italians and the Greeks on this matter does not count);
"Bot" - a bag for storing wine made of leather (worth such a bag of about 30 euros);
Saffron and other spices;
Funny t-shirts of Kukuxumusu;
Spanish ham;
CDs with Flamenco;
Spanish wine;
Souvenirs of the Spanish national football team;
Cold weapons from Toledo.

Work hours of institutions

Banks work:
Mon-Fri: 08: 30-14.00
Some banks are open and on Saturdays.

Shopping time:
Mon-Fri: from 09:00 to 13.30 (or 14:00) and from 16:30 (or from 17:00) to 20:00.
Every Saturday, Spanish shops are open to lunch.
Large supermarkets are open all day.

Visa

Spain - Country in the southwest of Europe with amazing nature, temperamental inhabitants and beautiful sea. She, as if bright mosaic, consists of small regions that differ very much from each other. Each town attracts unusual traditions, incendiary rhythms or a refreshing taste of fragrant Sangria. Little country boasts such a variety and national flavor. Spain can! She is hospitably revealed before tourists, promising a truly interesting vacation.

Geography

More than 85% of the Pyrenean Peninsula belongs to Spain, on the map it has a rectangular shape. Most of the surface is occupied by hills and plateaus. Cordillers and Pyrenees are spread from the center to the north and west. Highest point Spain is Mulance Peak (3478 m). There are less than high, but picturesque mountains. Through the mountain ranges are broken by picturesque passes and two railway branches are held.

In the southeast, the largest Andalus lowland was spread. In the northeastern part, you can see the Aragon Plain, which is close to the Delta of the Ebro River. There are several major rivers in the country, but most of the territory needs artificial irrigation. Due to the lack of moisture, several million tons of fertile land are revealed annually.

Spain boasts a long coastline. It is washed by the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. In total, in coastal areas there are about 2,000 beaches and recreational areas.

Climate

Spain boasts sunny weather, in the year there are 280 sunny days. Seasonal temperature fluctuations are quite high. In winter in the center of the country, the air cools up to minus temperatures, the climate is softer near the coast. Summer is roast, in the south the air temperature is capable of exceeding +40 ° C, but in the north is only +25 ° C.

Because of the mountain relief, inside the country there are separate climatic zones. In addition to the difference in temperatures, the amount of precipitation is different. Northwest is characterized by a rainy and windy weather. The precipitation level here reaches 2000 mm. The rest of the territory is protected from bad weather. mountain ridges. For example, in the center of the country there is only 500 mm of precipitation per year. For the south, softer temperatures are characterized, precipitation also drops a little.

Nature

The nature of Spain is very rich. There are about 8,000 plant varieties, most of them are endemics. The most thick thickets are located in the north of the Atlantic coast. There are beech, ash, oak, chestnut and lime thickets. Above the mountains are dominated in the mountains, and the nizenas are covered by evergreen shrubs.

In more often, the northern Spanish forests are inhabited by deer, boars and roebles, and at the foot of the Cantabrian Mountains have ever met the brown bears. South dwells foxes, lynx, wolves and even macaics. Near the water bodies dwell with waterfowl: ducks, flamingos, storks and geese.

More arid regions are characterized by the herbal vegetation of steppe type, and on southern coast You can see low palm trees. Only Spain from all European countries can boast wild palm thickets. There are many lizards, snakes and other reptiles. Always warm water are abounding with sardines, a sled, cod, anchovies, as well as crayfish and lobs.

Population

The population of Spain is approaching 40 million people. Most residents are indigenous settlers and are divided into ethnic signs on Catalans, Basque, Galicians and others. Representatives of various groups are practically not mixed with each other. Most of the inhabitants (98%) are confessing Catholicism and are rather pious.

Once in Spain, you need to know about some peculiarities of behavior, so as not to be in a dead end:

Residents of southern regions are characterized by large emotionality during the conversation. They actively gesticulate and increase the voice, but this does not testify to aggression.
Punctuality is not a distinctive feature of the Spaniards. Developing to half an hour is considered the norm.
Housing Siesta is mandatory for most establishments. The exception is only tourist centers.

Kitchen

The cult of food in Spain got widespread. On the streets there are a lot of major restaurants and smaller institutions. The servings are very large, rationally order one dish for two. Be sure to try local wines from grapes grown under the Spanish bright sun.

Tapas bars have special popularity. Small places where communication is in the first place, and then food. In small pellets (tapas) serve all sorts of snacks.

The most common dishes of Spanish cuisine are the following:

gaspacho - cold vegetable soup with pieces of bread and fragrant herbs;
paella - rice with vegetables, meat, seafood and wine;
hamon - dried kaban meat;
sea scallops;
chicken, tushed in wine;
tourron - dessert from nuts with nuts, chocolate and air rice.

Arriving to Spain, you should say goodbye to diets in advance and conquer fragrant dishes. Rash delicacies from seafood, richly arched with seasonings and olive oil will be brusing any.

National drink is Sangria. At first, many celebrate its specific taste, but gradually this refreshing drink becomes one of the favorites. Prepare it from young red wine and fruit. A beverage is served chilled or with ice cubes.

sights

The central part of Spain is famous for large quantities. interesting places. The story was favorable to these lands and most of the sights are well preserved to the present day. Those who are limited in time should be sent to the capital. This is the place of cluster of most museums and religious structures. Be sure to visit:

prado Museum;
National Ethnographic Museum;
National Museum of Applied Art;
Queen Sofia Arts Center;
spain's Square;
monasteries Descalsas Reales and El Espiral;
Royal Palace.

Separate areas of Spain are distinguished by an unusual flavor, so each of them deserves attention. Tourists especially appreciate the creations of Gaudi in Barcelona, Cathedral In Valencia, the Moorish fortress in Granada and the mass of other natural and man-made monuments.

Entertainment

The country of the Bright Sun and Hot Men is not a pearl, but a whole pearl stove. On her expanses, everyone will find entertainment to taste. Of course, at least a few days it is worth spending on beautiful coasts, where the blue of the sea merges with the same tint of the sky. Picturesque rocks and mountains covered with greens, effectively complement landscapes.

Beautiful spa beaches are very diverse. There are rocky coasts covered with pebbles or snow-white sandy shores, and there are places with black volcanic sand. All beaches free with free entrance. The most popular resorts of the Mediterranean:

Costa del Marezme;
Costa Dorada;
Costa Blanca;
Costa Brava.

To relax from flying Sun., you can go on ski resort. Total hours from the coast, on Mount Sierra Nevada, there are equipped descents of any complexity. In the Pyrenees, on the border with France, there are other resorts. Nearby are located national parks with thermal sources.

How to get?

In order not to spend a short vacation on the road, it is worth focusing on flights. Spain takes direct flights from various parts of the planet. Most often, the planes are landed in Madrid. Inside the country there are internal air transportation.

Before the trip, a Schengen visa should be issued. It will allow without unnecessary trouble to get acquainted with the beauties of Spain and neighboring states.

Heart of Youth Tourism - Balearic Islands, especially Menorca, Mallorca and Ibiza, famous nightlife. In the internal regions of the country is developed cultural and eco-tourism. But the basis of the hospitality industry is the beach resorts: Catalan Costa del Marezme, and Costa de Valencia in autonomous community Valencia, Andalusian resorts of Costa de la Luz, Costa Tropical, Costa de Almeria,.

A lot of tourists attracted annual festivals, a significant part of which is devoted to local saints, folklore and traditions. Eserro in Pamplona, \u200b\u200bSeville Fair, Romeria de El Rocio, Tomology in Bunyol, Fallas in Valencia, Carnivals in Cadiz and Canary Islands are especially popular. Music festivals PRIMAVERA SOUND, SONAR, FESTIMAD and FESTIVAL INTERNATIONAL de Benicassim; Mostra de Valencia Film Festivals, Sithjess Festival, International Film Festival in Valladolid.

Economy, employment

Spain is traditionally high unemployment, especially youth. According to statistics, during the economic crises, every fifth Spaniard does not work anywhere.

The overwhelming majority of the population are employed in the service sector. Historically, Spain is an agricultural country, but today there are relatively few people in this area.

Very well developed winemaking (in the photo on the left). Here is the region famous for the whole world - the country of wine and vineyards.

The cultivation of citrus, vegetable growing, animal husbandry and fisheries are developed. Spain is almost a quarter of the world production of olives and olive oil - the most popular with tourists. Due to the diversity of food, so rich in dishes for every taste, and Spain itself firmly strengthened in the list best countries For gastronomic tourism. In many ways, they make it the famous and magnificent.

Residents of Spain

In the early days of the Times, the Pyrenean Peninsulas were in charge of predominantly ibera, subsequently mixed with Celts and assimilated by the Romans. The resulting Ibero-Roman community was sequentially diluted by the Germans and Arabs with Berbers, several peoples were formed. In detail, we talked about it in the article "". Spain's indigenous people: Spaniards (Castillas), Basic, Catalans and Galicians make up the vast majority of the country's population.

We are confessing the Spaniards mainly Catholicism (about 75%). The second and third place is occupied by Islam (over a million) and Orthodoxy (about 900 thousand people). Orthodox - mostly immigrants from Eastern Europe. Almost every tenth resident of Spain is an immigrant or descendant of immigrants.

Traveling in Latin America - Spain

The name of the country comes from the Phoenician "and-punish" - "coast of rabbits" or "the shore of Damanov".

The capital of Spain is Madrid.

Spain Area - 504 782 km?.

Population of Spain - 46,162 thousand people.

Location of Spain. Spain - South European country. It ranks five Sixth Pyrenean Peninsula, Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean Sea and the Canary Islands in the Atlantic Ocean. The Pyrenean Mountains are difficult to reach and isolate Spain from other European countries except Portugal located on the western part of the peninsula. Spain is washed by the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. On land, it borders with Portugal in the West, with France (on the ridge of the Pyrenees Mountains) and the tiny state of Andorra in the northeast, with Gibraltar in the south.

Administrative division of Spain. Consists of 17 autonomous regions: Andalusia, Aragon, Asturias, Balearic Islands, Basque Country, Valencia, Galicia, Canary Islands, Cantabria, Catalonia, Castile Lamecha, Castilla and Leon, Madrid, Murcia, Navarre, Rio, Extremadura, which unite 50 provinces, as well as 2 cities (Ceuta and Melilla), located on the Northern Coast of Africa and are independent administrative units.

The form of the board of Spain is a constitutional monarchy.

The head of state Spain is the king.

Higher legislature Spain - General Cortes (Parliament), consisting of two chambers, are elected for 4 years.

The highest executive body of Spain is the government.

The major cities of Spain - Barcelona, \u200b\u200bValencia, Seville, Saragoza, Bilbao, Malaga.

State language of Spain - Spanish, legalized the use of Catalan, Galician, Basque, Aran and some other languages \u200b\u200bof national minorities.

Religion of Spain. 99% - Catholics.

Ethnic composition of Spain. 72.8% - Spaniards, 16.4% - Catalans, 8.2% - Galicians, 2.3% - Basic.

Spain's currency - euro \u003d 100 cents.

Climate of Spain. In most of Spain, the climate is subtropical Mediterranean - with a hot dry summer and soft rainy winter. However, it varies significantly from the North-West to the southeast of the country and, depending on the height above sea level. In addition to the large number of mountain ranges and a flatbed that make up 90% of the total area of \u200b\u200bthe territory, the neighborhood with Africa has a great influence on the climate. The average annual temperature across the country fluctuates in the area + 20 ° C. In Southern Spain, the average daily temperature + 26 ° C is almost 200 days a year. The most precipitation falls in the north and northwest of the country, and the central and southeastern areas are more dry. That is why Spain is conventionally divided into "dry" (the annual amount of precipitation up to 500 mm) and "wet" (up to 900 mm per year). Spain is the most high-mountainous country in Europe after Switzerland. The most powerful mountain system - Pyrenees, the main vertex of which is the peak anetho (3404 m).

Flora Spain. Apart from the flora of the Canary Islands, about 8,000 plant species grows in Spain, many of which are found only in this area. From once extensive forests remained only a small part in the north of the country. In the "wet" Spain, beech, elm, oak, chestnut, ash, linden, poplar. Above in the mountains of the forests go to the filler meadows. The richest vegetation on the North Atlantic slopes of the Cantabrian Mountains and the Galician array - that is why these areas are called "green" Spain. On the plain the Ebro River at the foot of the mountains grow evergreen shrubs and herbs, there are also semi-desert vegetation with a predominance of wormwood and salt marsh. In the "dry" Spain, Mediterranean vegetation prevails, evergreen shrubs and semi-stabilics - McWis, Gariga and Tomillary. In the extreme south, the hazymeral palm trees are common - the only wild palm tree in Europe.

Fauna of Spain. Animal world Spain is also very rich and diverse. In the north of the Middle Eastern Fauna - a lot of deer, roe deer, boars. IN mountainous areas Preserved noble deer and a Pyrenean mountain goat. A sporting hunt for deer is allowed. Sometimes in the Cantabrian Mountains and the mountains of Leon you can see a brown bear. From predators there is a slight amount of wolves, foxes, and in the mouth of Guadalquivir - Spanish lynx. Near Gibraltar dwells Macak - the only representative of this type of monkeys in Europe. Spain rightfully occupies a leading place in Europe by the number of bird species found here. Among them are hawks, eagles, griffins, falcons. There are a lot of colonies of waterfowl - geese, ducks, herds, flamingos, white storks.
Spain also contains a large number of species of reptiles - lizards, snakes, chameleons, and in semi-deserts in the south of the country - Tarantulas and Scorpions.

In the mouths of the rivers and in the coastal waters of the Atlantic, many fish -Is are mainly sardines, in fewer salaka, cod, anchovies and various types of mollusks. In the Mediterranean Sea dwells the tuna, salmon, anchov, crayfish and lobs.

Rivers and lakes of Spain. The largest rivers Spain - Tahoe, Douro, Ebro, Segura, Guadalquivir, Guadiana. Lakes are small and are located mainly in the mountains.

Tags: free travel, journey latin America, Spain

Music and dancing in the style of Flamenco, bathers of bulls, a lot of sun and fantastic beaches ... In fact, Spain can offer tourists much more. Spain has been a cultural center of Europe for many centuries. In this country, a large number of monuments of the times of Celts are preserved, ready, Romans and Mavrov. The Alhambra Palace in Granada, Mosque Cathedral of the Mesquite in Cordove and the Royal Palace in Madrid will be no less interesting to tourists than the beaches of Costa del Sol or, for example, Costa Dorada.

Geography of Spain

Spain includes small Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean Sea, "Doggy's Islands" (so once called the Canary Islands) in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Africa, as well as two semi-autonomous cities - Ceuta and Melilla in North Africa.

Total area of \u200b\u200bSpain - 505,992 square meters. km, including the islands, and the total length of the state border - 1,917 km.

Painted Spain is a mountainous country where plateaus and mountain ranges are dominated. The main mining systems in Spain - Pyrenees, Cordillera, Cantabrian Mountains, Catalan Mountains, as well as Sierra Nevada Mountains. The highest peak in Spain is the extinct volcano Take on the island of Tenerife (3,718 m).

Capital of Spain

The capital of Spain is Madrid, in which more than 3.3 million people live. Madrid was founded by Moors in the middle of the X century.

Official language

Spain is a multilingual country. During the entire territory of Spain, the official language is Spanish (he is Castilsky).

Other official languages:

basque - distributed in the Basque country and in Navarre;
catalan - distributed in Catalonia, as well as in Valencia and on Balera;
galician - in Galicia.

Religion

About 96% of Spain's population are Catholics belonging to the Roman Catholic Church. However, only 14% of the Spaniards go to church every week (or more often).

In addition, about 1.2 million Protestants and more than 1 million Muslims now live in Spain and more than 1 million Muslims (a lot of people from Morocco and Algeria).

State device

Spain is a constitutional monarchy in which the head of state, according to the Constitution, is the king.

The source of legislative power is the Cortenes, consisting of the Congress of Deputies (350 people are elected to it) and the Senate (258 people).

The main political parties in Spain are the right "People's Party", "Spanish Social Working Party" and "Communist Party of Spain".

Spain consists of 17 communities (regions) and 2 autonomous cities (Ceuta and Melilla).

Climate and weather

In general, the climate of Spain can be divided into three main climatic zones:

the Mediterranean climate, which is characterized by hot summer and enough cold winter (central and north-central Spain);
half-handed climate (Southeast Spain, especially in Murcia and in the Valley of Ebro);
marine climate (in the north of Spain, especially in Asturias, Country of Basque, Cantabria, in part, in Galicia).

In the Pyrenees and Sierra Nevada, the Alpine climate, and in the Canary Islands - subtropical.

In Spain in January, the average air temperature is 0С, and in July - + 33c.

Seas and oceans

The Mediterranean Sea in the south and east washes the shores of Spain, and the Atlantic Ocean is in the West and the North-West of the country. In the north of Spain there is a big bisciy bay.

The average temperature of the sea in Spain in May:

Costa Dorado - + 17c
Costa Brava - + 17c
Costa Costa - + 17c
Almeria - + 18c
Costa del Sol - + 17c
Costa Blanca - + 17c

The average temperature of the sea in Spain in August:

Costa Dorado - + 25c
Costa Brava - + 25c
Costa Calida - + 25c
Almeria - + 24c
Costa del Sol - + 23c
Costa Blanca - + 25c

Rivers and lakes

Despite the fact that Spain is a mountainous country, a large number of rivers flow through its territory. The biggest rivers in Spain - Tahoe (1,007 km), Ebro (910 km), Douro (895 km), Guadiana (657 km) and Guadalquivir (578 km).

History of Spain

At about 1200 BC. Celts that began to mix with Iberian tribes on the Pyrenees. Then on the Pyrenees founded several of their cities, the Phoenicians - Gadir (Cadiz), Malaka (Malaga) and Abdar (Adra). Then, in the south of Spain along the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, the ancient Greeks built their colonies.

In the time of Punic Wars between Rome and Carthage, Roman legionnaires invaded Spain and won the large part of it. Then Spain fell completely under the power of ancient Rome.

However, Christians are trying to return the Spanish lands captured by Moors. This period in the history of Spain is known as reconquist.

After in 1492, Christopher Columbus opened America, Spain received tons of silver and gold from there, thanks to this one of the most influential and powerful countries of that time.

Because of the economic crisis and political instability in the XIX century, Spain lost almost all of their colonies. In 1895, after the war, Cuba was lost, the last colony of Spain was lost.

From 1936 to 1939, civil war continued in Spain, the winner of which the nationalists led by Franco came out. During World War II, which began in 1939, Spain adhered to neutrality, although he sympathized with Germany.

In 1975, Franco died, and a constitutional monarchy was created in Spain.

In 1985, Spain was adopted in NATO, and in 1992 she joined the European Union.

Culture of Spain

Ancient Greeks, as well as ancient Romans, were greatly influenced by the Spanish culture. Until now, a large number of ancient Roman monuments have been preserved in Spain. After Spain won Mauri in the early 700s, the Arabs began to be determined on Spanish culture. In general, all Middle Ages in Spain is the confrontation of Arab and Christian cultures.

For many of us, Spain is Flamenco and Corrida, who have a long-term tradition.

Now every two years in the Spanish Seville is held the International Flamenco Festival, which is called "Bienal de Flamenco". This festival collects thousands of participants and visitors.

Kitchen

In the Mediterranean Spain (from Catalonia to Andalusia) for cooking often use seafood. Cold soups are traditional here (for example, Gaspacho) and rice dishes (for example, Paella).

For inner Spain, dense hot soups and stewed meat are characteristic. Ham is popular here and various cheeses.

For the northern coast of Spain (Atlantic Ocean), including for the Basque Country, Asturias and Galicia, are characterized by meat, fish and vegetables.

Cochinillo asado (fried piglet);
Gambas Ajiillo (fried shrimps with garlic and chili);
Paella (Rice Dish);
Pulpo a la gallega (octopus in Galician);
Jamon Iberico & Chorizo \u200b\u200b(Iberian ham and spicy sausages);
Pescado Frito (this is any fried fish);
Patatas Bravas (this is fried potatoes cooked in acute sauce);
Tortilla Espanola (Omelet in Spanish);
Queso Manchego (Spanish sheep cheese);
Gazpacho (this is a traditional cold tomato soup).

In our opinion, in the top 5 of the best red wines in Spain includes:

Wine Lopez de Heredia
BERNYA (Alicante)
Vinyes Josep - Sola Classic (Priorat)
Tempranillo - Baron Fernand (Valdepeñas)
Divus - Bodegas Bleda (Jumilla)

Top 5 best white wines in Spain:

Xarlel-Lo - Clar de Castanyer (Penedés)
Amalia - Rubicon (Lanzarote)
Wine Mas Plantadera Blanco Roble - Celler Sabate (Priorat)
Malvasia Semidulce - Bermejo (Lanzarote)
el Copero (Utiel-Requena)

Sights of Spain

It is possible, Spain and does not take 1st place by the number of sights, but it is indisputable that in this ancient country to tourists have something to see. The top ten places of interest in Spain, in our opinion, are the following:

Cities and resorts of Spain

Top 10 Spanish beaches, in our opinion:

La Conca Beach - San Sebastian
Playa de Las Catedrales - Galicia
Playa Del Silencio - Asturias
SES ILLESTES - Located at Formentera, Balearic Islands
Beaches of Sitges - Near Barcelona
Nerja - Costa del Sol, Andalusia
La Barrosa - This beach is located in Chiclan de la Frontera
Tarifa - Andalusia
Gandia - Costa Blanca
Playa de Los Peligros - Santander

When they talk about the beach resorts of Spain, the Costa del Sol, Canary Islands, and Oh-in Ibiza immediately remember. But in Spain there are still Costa Brava, o-in Tenerife, Oh-in Mallorca, Costa Dorada, Balearic Islands, Costa Blanca, Costa del Marezme, and Costa de la Luz.

Souvenirs / Shopping

Returning from Spain, tourists may simply not raise their suitcases, so many of them can be souvenirs. Therefore, we advise tourists who visited Spain, to stay on the next best Spanish souvenirs:

Olive oil, which is the best in the world (the opinion of the Italians and the Greeks on this matter does not count);
"Bot" - a bag for storing wine made of leather (worth such a bag of about 30 euros);
Saffron and other spices;
Funny t-shirts of Kukuxumusu;
Spanish ham;
CDs with Flamenco;
Spanish wine;
Souvenirs of the Spanish national football team;
Cold weapons from Toledo.

Work hours of institutions

Banks work:
Mon-Fri: 08: 30-14.00
Some banks are open and on Saturdays.

Shopping time:
Mon-Fri: from 09:00 to 13.30 (or 14:00) and from 16:30 (or from 17:00) to 20:00.
Every Saturday, Spanish shops are open to lunch.
Large supermarkets are open all day.