Spain is cultural centre of Europe and third most popular tourist destination in world; furthermore it is home to an ever growing eclectic mix of expatriates from around globe. Those who choose to visit or relocate to Spain are drawn by country’s charm, beauty and passionate people: this rough guide to Spain will give you an introduction to this fascinating, rich and diverse country.
The Environment and Climate
Mainland Spain is located in South Western Europe. It makes up about 80% of Iberian Peninsula which it shares with Portugal and Gibraltar.
The Pyrenees form north-eastern edge of Peninsula, and Peninsula is bordered by Mediterranean Sea on south and east, and by Atlantic Ocean on north and west. Mainland Spain also borders Andorra and France.
Mainland Spain enjoys a beautiful Mediterranean climate with hot summers and with winters being divided into relatively cold in interior, temperate on coast and fair on islands that make up Kingdom of Spain.
Further Spanish territories and tourist hotspots are Balearic Islands in Mediterranean Sea: main islands making up Balearics are Majorca, Minorca, Ibiza and Formentera - and Canary Islands in Atlantic Sea: seven islands making up Canaries are Gran Canaria, Tenerife, Lanzarote, La Palma, La Gomera, El Hierro and Fuertaventura.
The Kingdom of Spain also consists of two cities in North Africa called Ceuta and Melilla.
Spain’s Historical Background
Spain was once most powerful nation in Europe and derived most of its wealth at time from its colonization of Americas which began with arrival of Christopher Columbus in Americas in 1492.