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Spain in 10 Minutes
In a Nutshell
- Capital: Madrid
- Population: Approx. 47 million (2023)
- Official Language: Spanish
- Currency: Euro (EUR)
Breaking Down the Country
Geographical Diversity
From the snow-capped peaks of the Sierra Nevada to the sun-kissed beaches of the Costa del Sol, Spain boasts a stunning variety of landscapes.
Cultural Riches
Immerse yourself in flamenco music, indulge in delectable tapas, and discover the architectural wonders of Gaudi and Moorish palaces.
Historical Legacy
Trace Spain's history from the Roman Empire through the Golden Age of Exploration to the modern era marked by renowned artists like Picasso and Dalí.
Timeline of Spain
The Iberians settle in the region now known as Spain
The Romans conquer the Iberian Peninsula
The Visigoths establish a kingdom in Spain
The Moors invade Spain and establish Muslim rule
The Reconquista begins, with Christian kingdoms gradually retaking territory from the Moors
The marriage of Ferdinand II of Aragon and Isabella I of Castile unifies Spain
Christopher Columbus sets sail from Spain on his first voyage to the Americas
The Spanish Inquisition is established by Ferdinand and Isabella
Spain becomes a global colonial power, with territories in the Americas, Africa, and Asia
The Spanish Armada is defeated by the English navy
Spain enters a period of decline and economic hardship
Napoleon invades Spain
Spain declares independence from France and begins the Peninsular War
The Spanish Constitution of 1812 is adopted, establishing a liberal government
Spain loses its colonies in the Americas and the Philippines
The Spanish Civil War breaks out between Republicans and Nationalists
Francisco Franco establishes a dictatorship in Spain
Spain transitions to a constitutional monarchy after Franco's death
Spain joins the European Union
Spain hosts the 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona
Vocabulary List
- Paella
- A traditional Spanish dish made with rice, saffron, vegetables, and either seafood or meat.
- Sangria
- A popular Spanish drink made with red wine, fruit, and sweeteners like sugar or orange juice.
- Flamenco
- A style of music and dance that originated in the Andalusian region of Spain.
- Tapas
- Small savory dishes served as appetizers or snacks in Spanish cuisine.
- Gaudi
- Referring to Antoni Gaudi, a renowned Catalan architect known for his unique and distinctive style.
- Siesta
- A short nap taken in the early afternoon, especially in Spain and other Spanish-speaking countries.
- Bullfighting
- A traditional Spanish spectacle that involves a matador confronting and ultimately killing a bull in an arena.
Key Facts
This is the information used in the fact matching game
- Spain is the fourth largest country in Europe by land area.
- Spain is the second most visited country in the world, with over 83 million tourists in 2019.
- Spain is home to the third largest number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the world.
- Spain has the highest number of bars per inhabitant in the EU.
- Spain is the world's leading producer of olive oil.
- Spain is the largest producer of wine in the world.
- Spain has the second highest life expectancy in the world, behind Japan.
- Spain has the highest number of blue flag beaches in the world.
- Spain is the world's second largest producer of oranges.
- Spain is home to the oldest restaurant in the world, Botín, which opened in 1725.
- Spain is the world's leading producer of saffron.
- Spain has the highest number of bars per square kilometer in Europe.
- Spain is the second largest producer of strawberries in Europe.
- Spain has the most World Heritage cities in the world, with 15 cities recognized by UNESCO.
- Spain has the highest number of organ donors in the world.
- Spain is the world's largest producer of almonds.
- Spain has the second highest number of bars per capita in the world, after Cyprus.
- Spain has the highest number of bars per person in the EU.
- Spain is the second largest exporter of wine in the world.
- Spain is the world's leading producer of olive oil.
Why It Matters
Geopolitical Significance
Spain’s location at the crossroads of Europe and Africa, with access to both the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, has given it strategic importance throughout history. Its proximity to North Africa and the Strait of Gibraltar has made it a key player in trade, exploration, and military conflicts.
Historical Importance
Spain’s history is marked by the legacy of the Roman Empire, the Moorish conquest, the Spanish Inquisition, and the Age of Exploration. It was once a global superpower with colonies in the Americas, shaping world history through its cultural, linguistic, and architectural influences.
Modern-Day Role
Today, Spain is a member of the European Union and NATO, playing a key role in European politics and economics. It is known for its vibrant culture, tourism industry, renewable energy initiatives, and contributions to international organizations like the United Nations.
Spain Games
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