About Spain

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History | Information for Travelers | Climate & Geography | Demographics | Culture and Heritage | Language and Communication

About Spain

A. Brief History

1. Formation and Early History

The roots of Spain lie in the Iberian, Celtiberian, and Roman cultures, augmented by important Islamic elements due to the early 8th-century Moorish conquest. The Reconquista was a near 800-year series of campaigns to retake territories lost to the Muslims, culminating in 1492 with the taking of Granada.

2. Recent History (20th and 21st Century)

A chaotic time beset Spain in the 20th century, defined by the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939) and the dictatorship of Francisco Franco (1939-1975). After Franco's death, Spain evolved into a democratic constitutional monarchy with King Juan Carlos I. In the 21st century, the country's membership in the European Union brings a fresh set of challenges, including an ailing economy, the autonomy push from Catalonia, and the management of immigration and immigrant integration.

B. Political Structure

1. Present Government and Political Situation

Spain is a parliamentary constitutional monarchy, with a monarch as head of state and a prime minister as head of government. The political scene is lively and diverse, with parties such as the Spanish Socialist Workers' Party (PSOE), the People's Party (PP), and Unidas Podemos. The country is engaged in a constant series of debates and discussions about regional autonomy, with the spotlight often on Catalonia and the Basque Country.

2. Connection with the European Union

Since 1986, Spain has been part of the European Union. Membership has brought a range of benefits to Spain, mostly expressed in the language of free-market economics. Structural funds have made a dramatic difference to Spain's infrastructure and economy. Spain is part of the Schengen Area and uses the Euro.

C. Economy

1. Overview of the Economy and Economic Sectors

With a GDP approximating $1.4 trillion, Spain ranks as the 14th largest economy in the world. A large part of the economy depends on some sectors, such as tourism, which contributes around 11% to the GDP, and agriculture, featuring products like olive oil and wine. The automotive industry is also quite important, with Spain being one of the largest car producers in Europe.

2. Currency and Economic Stability

The official monetary unit for Spain is the Euro (€). The country encountered significant economic hardships during the worldwide financial crisis of 2008, along with an excessively high jobless rate. Nevertheless, Spain's economy had been on the mend, manifesting not only growth but also a decrease in unemployment figures right before the pandemic hit. The quest for long-term economic stability in Spain seems to hinge on two factors: the overall state of the global economy and the soundness of domestic economic policy.

D. Education and Healthcare

1. Overview of the Education System

The schooling system in Spain comprises several levels: preschools, primary schools, secondary schools, post-16 institutions, and colleges and universities. Children must attend the compulsory stages of education from ages 6 to 16. After that, students may choose to attend a range of education institutions, including the many public and private universities that dot the country's landscape. The Spanish system offers ample opportunities to pursue both undergraduate and graduate studies. Among its several well-respected universities are the notable University of Barcelona and what is often considered the country's flagship institution, the Complutense University of Madrid.

2. Healthcare System and Facilities

One of the best healthcare systems in the world, Spain's, offers both public and private services. The public system is universally accessible and is financed by social security contributions. Most residents have access to free or nearly free healthcare services. Spain has a large number of well-equipped hospitals and clinics, and there is a strong emphasis on preventative care and health education.

Practical Information for Travelers, Retirees, and Investors

For Travelers

Visa Necessities: Citizens of Schengen Area countries don’t require a visa. Others might need to obtain a Schengen visa. The official language is Spanish; however, English is widely spoken in the regions that cater to tourists. Spain is mostly safe, but it is wise to be aware of pickpockets in densely populated areas.

For Retirees

Living expenses: Spain's living expenses are considerably lower than those in many Western European nations. A pair can thrive here on roughly €2,000 to €2,500 each month, a figure that covers all bases and allows for some modest extras. Spain provides a number of residency alternatives, among them a non-lucrative visa for retirees.

For Investors

Property: The property market offers a variety of choices from coastal to urban living. Prices depend on location, with demand driving up costs at certain hotspots. Spain offers a favorable business environment and provides access to the European market. However, potential investors should be aware of the many bureaucratic hurdles and the stringent level of regulation they will encounter when starting and operating a business here.

II. Climate and Geography of Spain

A. Geography

1. Regions and Their Characteristics

Spain is a mosaic of 17 autonomous regions, each with a unique mix of cultures, languages, traditions, and landscapes. Together, these regions form a patchwork quilt of communities that have coexisted and combined throughout the centuries. The regions of Spain certainly share a lot of common elements, but each has a number of outstanding characteristics that make it different from the others.

Andalusia: Located in the southernmost part of Spain, Andalusia holds a historical aura where the cultures of Islam, Judaism, and Christianity converge. El Cementerio de San Fernando, which is in Seville, contains the remains of many artistic figures from the region. The foundation of the nearby Alcázar (royal palace), whose construction took place during the Umayyad Caliphate, was laid by that same figure, orderer of the same Umayyad rule, who also laid the foundation for the construction of the Great Mosque in Córdoba. After the Christians reconquered Seville, they began expanding their now-conquered city, whose walls were once adjacent to the ancient Roman settlement of Hispalis.

Catalonia: This northeastern region gleams with a unique identity, as seen in the language spoken by its people, Catalan, and the delicious culinary traditions that define the region. Art and architecture reign in the capital, Barcelona, where the masterpieces of Gaudi make the city a veritable treasure chest of art. Catalonia's versatile landscapes stretch from the stunning beaches of Costa Brava to the soaring mountains of the Pyrenees.

Madrid: Sitting in Spain's very center, the region of Madrid is home to the vibrant capital city, which is a melting pot of history and modern life. The urban layout is a beautiful contradiction of stately royal sites, palatial public plazas, and pushes toward the avant-garde, a contradiction highlighted in the city's most renowned museums, which house and display an artistic portfolio reflecting Spain's stellar global reputation.

Galicia: Nestled in the northwest corner of the country, Galicia is famous for its dramatic, wildly beautiful coastline, stitched together with estuaries, cliffs, and coves. Galicia boasts the very best of Spain's baking traditions, and its reliance on rustic loaves and flatbreads is reminiscent of the cuisine of Celtic cultures.

Basque Country: The area is a repository of the rare Basque culture and its Euskara tongue. Places such as Bilbao are a harmonious blend of industrial history, modern art (as epitomized by the Guggenheim Museum), and a dynamic, burgeoning scene in the culinary arts. Pintxos and Michelin stars seem to be in the same culinary world, even though one speaks of the application of skilled artisanship to a rarefied dining experience, while the other refers to an explosion of creative control over the user interface in casual dining.

B. Climate

1. Climate Variations by Region

The different geographical areas in Spain allow for a diverse climate—an atmosphere that suits each region’s particular way of life. So even if some aspects of Spain’s cuisine are similar across the board, you can bet that every plate a Spaniard sets before you is an expression of his or her region’s unique culinary take on the lifeways that climate offers.

Mediterranean Climate: Places such as Catalonia, Valencia, and Andalusia are bathed in long, dry summer warmth and enjoy the mildness of wet winter weather. These Mediterranean regions are sun-worshipper's paradises, where almost 300 days of sunshine take place during the year. They are perfect for open-air activities, especially at the beach, where one can indulge in a leisurely and almost kaleidoscopic array of seaside pastimes and water sports.

Oceanic Climate: The oceanic embrace of Galicia and the northern coast guarantees a melodic round of mild temperatures and abundant rainfall throughout the year. Virtually everywhere you go in these natural paradises, you are invited to experience a refuge for nature that overflows with lush vegetation, diversified landscapes, and pristine, uncrowded beaches—all places you can bask in the refreshing breezes that blow off the Atlantic Ocean.

The climate in the central areas of Spain, such as Madrid, is continental, with the typical wide temperature ranges between summer and winter. This brings not only an intense beauty to the region that can be seen in its blooming gardens of spring, but also stark juxtapositions that can be presented day to day or hour to hour in the same snowfall, draping parts of the central region in winter white.

Mountain Climate: The elevated areas of the Pyrenees and Sierra Nevada have a cold mountain climate with plenty of snow and biting winds. These regions welcome their visitors to a winter wonderland, with every kind of snow sport imaginable on offer in a landscape that looks as if it has been painted by Mother Nature herself.

2. Best Times to Visit

The best time to experience Spain's wealth is whenever it suits the traveler—there are plenty of seasonal advantages to any time of year one might choose to visit.

Spring (March to May): The intensity and variety of Spain's colors seem to peak in spring. Some festivals take place only in certain locales; others, like Semana Santa (the Holy Week preceding Easter), are celebrated across Spain.

March through May delights in the blooming beauty of Spain, where areas are at their floral best and bask in gentle warmth. These months are a sweet break from the tourist crush, with many serene opportunities to explore Spain's crazy-quilt of landscapes and to participate in its varied cultural fiestas.

Fall (September to November): Fall envelops Spain in a warm palette and mild temperatures. With a comparatively reduced tourist footprint, the season favors a gastronomic explosion across the regions. Grapes and olives, the foundational crops of Spain, are harvested during these months. The culinary art of the country celebrates these ingredients in both traditional and modern ways.

The height of summer bathes the country in unrelenting heat, especially in the interior, but coastal areas enjoy the cooling Mediterranean and Atlantic breezes. This is the season when sun worshippers and revelers are most likely to be found. Beach lovers and festival enthusiasts congregate at the seaside and in urban centers to enjoy an irresistible combination of sun and fun, daytime and nighttime.

The inland and mountainous areas receive a blanket of snow and frost, while the coastal regions bask in the half-winter warmth of the maritime influence. It is a time for snow adventurers, and for those who enjoy the serene beauty of the historical edifices and natural landscapes of Spain, winter offers such sights with a chilled ambiance.

III. Demographics of Spain

A. Population

1. Population Size and Density

One of the most densely populated countries in Europe, Spain, has a population of nearly 47 million people living within its borders. The population, not evenly distributed, tends to concentrate in urban centers, where the life and dynamism of Spain's interior are most apparent. Metropolises like Madrid and Barcelona may boast the appearances of a greater density of people, but even these urban areas scarcely compare to the ample density of farming and animal husbandry that characterizes many of Spain's interior regions. On the other hand, numerous borderline regions along the fringes of Spain's many coastal formations may also find themselves replete with an ample density of people.

2. Age Distribution

The significantly augmented demographic demographic of Spain is an effect of an aging population. The pronounced longevity and the heightened quality of life that is enjoyed in this nation are well demonstrated by the median age of its populace, which is flirting closely with 45 years. This median indicates that an increased number of our citizens possess a number of living conditions normally associated with senescence. Indeed, about 20% of the Spanish population is over the age of 65, a segment of the citizenry that demands a lot of tender loving care from the services normally associated with the healthcare industry and a number of senior services.

B. Ethnic Composition

1. Predominant Ethnic Groups

The ethnic foundation of the Spanish nation is predominantly Spanish but extends well beyond a singular identity. The cohesive yet delicate tapestry that is Spain is adorned with the thread of distinct regional identities. Catalans, Basques, and Galicians, the ethnic groups of the Spanish polyhedron, hold their unique family heritages, languages, and wonderful traditions in high esteem. They are quite simply, as well as beautifully, multicultural. Catalonia, the Basque Country, and Galicia represent the first ascent of Spain's fascinating multiethnic landscape.

2. Minority Communities

In recent years, Spain has embraced a multitude of immigrant communities, adding even more layers of diversity to its already rich, multicultural society. These communities consist of former colonies and other countries with whom Spain has ties, and they bring with them a mix of languages and cultures. The communities have allowed a period of intercultural dialogue and flourishing cuisine. Spain signals its inclusive, evolving, and largely stable demographic dynamic with the open arms that it extends to not-so-recent immigrants.

C. Religion

1. Predominant Religions and Their Influence on Culture

The primary religion that dominates Spain is Roman Catholicism and the country as a whole is largely influenced by the Catholic faith and its traditions. The religion has a great bearing in social customs, cultures and practices as evident in the way art and architecture is sought in Spain’s cultural practices, many of which embrace religious themes such as many of the cathedrals. Semana Santa, or Holy Week, displays the traditions of Catholicism through enormous parades, intricate rites, and classical dance performances.

Spain’s constitution is secular, but lies side by side with Catholicism. The church plays a role in the education system as there are many schools that are based on Catholicism whose students are expected to follow these teachings showing how deeply rooted the religion is in Spanish culture.

2. Religious Freedom and Tolerance

Spain adheres to the ideals of religious freedom and tolerance entrenched in its constitution in order to protect the rights and freedoms of its varied population. The country's pluralistic and peaceful culture is reflected in the thriving conditions it offers for the coexistence and prosperity of many religious communities, including as Muslims, Jews, and Protestants.

Spain's religious landscape, which is enhanced by its rich historical tapestry, is a testament to a legacy of mutual respect and syncretism that dates back to the peaceful coexistence of Muslims, Jews, and Christians during the Middle Ages. This persistent spirit of tolerance has made it easier for people of different faiths to communicate with one another, which has promoted unity and a sense of shared cultural heritage among the many social classes in Spain.

IV. Culture and Heritage of Spain

A. Traditional Customs

1. Festivals and Holidays

Spain is a country that exudes the spirit of celebration via its vibrant festivals and rich traditions. Buñol's Tomatina celebration celebrates friendship and happiness by throwing tomatoes. Semana Santa, a week-long celebration preceding Easter, highlights the breadth of Spain's religious past through processions and intricate ceremonies.

Spain's calendar is peppered with several regional festivals, such as La Feria de Abril in Seville, which highlight each region's particular customs, traditional music, and dance. Holidays such as Spain's National Day on October 12th celebrate the country's shared heritage and national pride.

2. Traditional Clothing and Cuisine

Traditional Spanish clothing, such as Andalusia's flamenco dresses and Catalonia's barretina, reflect regional diversity and historical fashion influences. Spanish food, a savory symphony of gastronomic delights, is recognized worldwide. It shifts from the classic paella to the various tapas, with each dish telling a story about regional flavors and culinary artistry.

B. Art and Architecture

1. Influential Artists and Architects

Many renowned painters and architects originated from Spain, leaving an everlasting influence on worldwide art and architectural landscapes. Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalí, and Joan Miró invented revolutionary art movements like Cubism and Surrealism.

Antoni Gaudí is an immense figure in architecture, with masterpieces such as the Sagrada Família and Park Güell combining innovative designs with architectural genius. His contributions to Modernisme, a Catalan artistic and architectural movement, contributed to developing Barcelona as a global hub for architectural innovation.

2. Notable Art Movements and Architectural Styles

Spain has been the birthplace of a wide range of art movements and architectural patterns, all of which contribute to the country's eclectic aesthetic. The Mudejar style is a monument to the harmonious blending of Islamic and Christian structural details, as evidenced by structures such as Seville's Alcázar.

Renaissance and Baroque influences can be seen in the magnificent structures of towns such as Salamanca and Granada, symbolizing the revival of artistic and architectural sensibility during these times.

C. Music and Dance

1. Traditional Music and Dance Forms

Spain's traditional dance and music, which are essential parts of its cultural legacy, are expressions of its rhythmic pulse. The Andalusian people's emotional and historical experiences are reflected in flamenco, a passionate and expressive dancing style paired with deep musical arrangements.

Jota, a dynamic dance style enhanced by upbeat music, reflects the cultural spirit of areas such as Aragon and the variety of dance and music traditions found throughout Spain. 

2. Contemporary Music Scene

Spain's modern music scene is a vibrant fusion of several genres and styles that reflects the country's changing musical tastes. Global audiences are being introduced to the depth of Spanish musical legacy by artists like Rosalía, who are leading the way in the blending of classic flamenco components with modern music genres.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

D. UNESCO World Heritage Sites

1. Description of Major Heritage Sites

Many UNESCO World Heritage Sites can be found in Spain, a country known for its architectural wonders and rich historical tapestry. The Alhambra, a colossal palace and castle near Granada, represents the height of Islamic art and architecture. In addition to being a sign of religious pilgrimage, the Santiago de Compostela also exemplifies the beauty of Romanesque architecture.

2. Importance to Spanish Culture and Heritage

These historical landmarks provide living examples of Spain's architectural advancements, cultural changes, and historical journey. They offer insights into the creative, architectural, and cultural advancements that have molded Spanish culture and act as physical reminders of the past. Since they remain a source of cultural enrichment, historical education, and national pride, their preservation is essential.

V. Language and Communication in Spain

A. Official Language

1. Predominance of Spanish

As Spain's official language, Spanish, sometimes known as Castilian, is the most widely used language for administration, education, and communication throughout the country. It is a Romance language with Latin origins that strengthens Spain's common cultural and historical legacy by acting as a linguistic link across its many areas. In addition to being a necessary language for daily communication, Spanish is also a representation of cultural unity and national identity.

2. Regional Languages

Although Spanish is widely used, Spain is a bilingual country that values several regional languages. Notable regional languages that are co-official in their respective regions; Catalonia, Galicia, and the Basque Country; are Catalan, Galician, and Basque. These languages enhance the national cultural fabric by reflecting Spain's vast linguistic diversity and playing a crucial role in regional identities. In order to demonstrate the country's dedication to maintaining linguistic diversity and promoting multiculturalism, they are taught in schools alongside Spanish.

B. English Proficiency

1. Level of English Proficiency Among the Population

Because English is becoming more and more important in business and the media, as well as because English education is becoming more and more important, English proficiency in Spain has been increasing. However, there can be wide disparities in proficiency, with younger generations and larger cities typically showing higher proficiency than older generations and rural locations. English is widely spoken and understood in business environments and tourist destinations, which makes communication with professionals and foreign visitors smoother.

2. English as a Medium of Instruction in Schools

English is a mandated subject in Spanish schools, emphasizing its prominence in the educational system. In an effort to improve students' English ability, several schools are implementing bilingual models and including English as a medium of instruction for a variety of topics. Spain's dedication to educating the next generation for global interactions and possibilities and its understanding of the significance of English as a worldwide lingua franca are reflected in this emphasis on English education.

C. Communication Style

1. Formality and Informality in Communication

The Spanish communication style is distinguished by a seamless integration of formality and warmth. The majority of first encounters are formal, characterized by the usage of formal titles and courteous pleasantries. On the other hand, communication becomes friendlier and more casual as relationships grow. The significance put on interpersonal connections and respect for one another is reflected in the widespread usage of first names, informal pronouns, and loving gestures.

2. Non-verbal communication Cues and Conventions

In Spain, nonverbal communication adds to the depth of interpersonal communication, making eye contact is vital because it conveys honesty and attention. Conversations become more emotionally engaging by the expressive and varied gestures used. The warm and loving character of Spanish interactions is reflected in the frequent use of physical contact, including handshakes, hugs, and cheek kisses. Building respectful and fulfilling relationships in Spain requires an understanding of these nonverbal clues.

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