Spain: Geography and Culture

Geography and Climate

• Spain is located between the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean.
• It shares borders with Portugal and France.
• The country has diverse geography, featuring mountains, valleys, lakes, rivers, deserts, farmland, vineyards, olive trees, and forests.

Daily Life

• The capital of Spain is Madrid.
• Due to its western time zone, the sun may not set until 10 pm in the summer.
• This leads to the famous midday nap, known as a siesta.
• Children attend school from 9 am-12 pm, and then from 3-5 pm.
• Spanish families typically eat dinner at around 9 pm.

Culture

• Spain is known for bullfights, flamenco music and dancing, and museums.
• Traditional dishes include paella, a rice dish made with saffron, and tapas, small dishes served as appetizers.
• The country is famous for its beaches and festivals, such as the running of the bulls and La Tomatina.
• Football (or soccer) is a popular sport in Spain.

History

• Spain has a rich culture and history spanning hundreds of years.
• The country was once part of the Roman Empire, influencing the Spanish language.
• Roman influence can be seen in the north, where Roman bridges and the Roman aqueduct of Segovia still stand.
• Most Spaniards (94%) consider their religion to be Roman Catholicism.
• The Moors contributed to education and impressive architecture, like the Alhambra.
• In 1492, the Christians regained control over the southern part of Spain, ending in the reconquest of Granada.
• The Habsburgs began to rule in Spain in 1516, shaping the country.

Language and Economy

• The official national language is Spanish, with regional co-official languages including Catalan, Basque, Aranese, and Galician.
• Spain's economy has been in decline, but is now growing, with exports of vehicles, oil, fruits, nuts, and vegetables helping to stabilize it.
• Spain is one of the largest exporters of fresh fruits and vegetables.

Explore the diverse geography and unique cultural aspects of Spain, including its climate, time zone, and tradition of siesta. Learn about the different landscapes and regions within Spain, from mountains and deserts to vineyards and forests.