Spain is a cauldron of many civilizations, many cultures and many races as plenty of people have ruled over it. It has a mixed culture. The Iberians who came from the east ruled over it for a long time till the Greeks, the Celts and the Romans took over after winning battles with each other. The Moors from North Africa crossed the Straits of Gibraltar and settled in Spain. They brought with them their culture, which is still strong today. Moorish customs and beliefs, Moorish architecture is more prominent and more ingrained than any other.

King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella who conquered the Moors and the Arabs brought Christianity to the country. At first a Treaty was signed which gave the people the right to continue with their religious practices and festivals. This was revoked some years later when they were asked to give up their religion and embrace Christianity. The majority accepted it but there were some who fled the country and went back to North Africa.

The Royalty gave permission to Vasco da Gama to sail around the world in search of trade and he discovered the Americas which gave Spain the authority to rule over half the world and have colonies. This brought a good trade between various countries and the economy of Spain prospered. It became an economically strong country which it still is today, making it a prosperous one.

The culture of Spain is a mixture of Iberian, Moorish, Jewish, Arabic, Muslim and Christian and is reflected in the architecture and buildings in the country. Spanish monuments are beautiful and lovely. Tourists love the Alhambra, the alcazar and other such creations which comprise of palaces and gardens and beautiful erected monuments. Some of them have been earmarked as World Heritage. Spain today is a highly civilized and industrialized country with a modern outlook. Though the people have retained the customs and festivals which are old, they also have all the modern equipment and gadgets necessary for modern living.

The majority of the people are Catholics. Spain has a ruling democratic monarchy and is part of the European Union. It shares a common Schengen visa with many other European countries for entry of tourists from other countries. Its currency is Euro which is common with the members of the EU. It also has good relations with the other countries.

Bullfighting and soccer are Spain’s national sports and pastime. Barcelona and Granada have hosted international sports events. Spanish people love singing and dancing and holding fiestas which are held in almost all parts of Spain throughout the year.
Spain has a Mediterranean climate which is salubrious with dry winters and warm summers. Spain shares its borders with Portugal and France and has their influence over the culture.