About Spain: Your Complete Guide to Spanish Life and Culture
Discover everything you need to know about Spain's geography, climate, culture, regions, and lifestyle before your move.
Introduction to Spain
Spain, officially the Kingdom of Spain (Reino de España), is a vibrant and diverse country in Southwestern Europe with a rich cultural heritage dating back thousands of years. Occupying most of the Iberian Peninsula and sharing borders with Portugal, France, Andorra, and Gibraltar, Spain also encompasses the Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean and the Canary Islands in the Atlantic Ocean.
With a population of over 47 million people, Spain is the fourth most populous EU member state. Its capital and largest city is Madrid, while other major urban areas include Barcelona, Valencia, Seville, and Bilbao.
Map of Spain including the mainland, Balearic Islands, and Canary Islands
A Brief History
Spain's history is a fascinating tapestry of different civilizations and cultures. The region was first inhabited by various pre-Roman peoples, including Iberians, Celts, and Phoenicians. The Romans conquered the peninsula in 218 BCE, leaving a lasting legacy including the Spanish language, which evolved from Latin.
After the fall of the Roman Empire, Spain was conquered by the Visigoths, and later by Islamic forces from North Africa in 711 CE. For nearly 800 years, much of the peninsula was under Islamic rule, a period known as Al-Andalus that saw significant cultural and scientific advancements.
The Christian Reconquista culminated in 1492 with the fall of Granada, the last Islamic state on the peninsula. That same year, Christopher Columbus sailed to the Americas under Spanish sponsorship, beginning Spain's colonial empire and Golden Age.
In the modern era, Spain experienced a civil war (1936-1939) followed by Francisco Franco's dictatorship until his death in 1975. Spain has since transformed into a modern, democratic state and joined the European Union in 1986.
Roman Period
Islamic Period
Spanish Empire
Modern Spain
Geography and Climate
Spain occupies 85% of the Iberian Peninsula and is one of Europe's most geographically diverse countries. Its territory includes:
• The mainland (Iberian Peninsula) • The Balearic Islands (Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza, and Formentera) in the Mediterranean Sea • The Canary Islands in the Atlantic Ocean • The cities of Ceuta and Melilla on the North African coast
Spain's terrain is extraordinarily varied, featuring:
• The Meseta Central, a vast central plateau • Several mountain ranges including the Pyrenees in the north, the Sierra Nevada in the south, and the Cantabrian Mountains along the northern coast • Major river valleys including the Ebro, Duero, Tajo, Guadiana, and Guadalquivir • Over 5,000 km of coastline along the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea
Climate
Mediterranean
Hot, dry summers and mild winters along the southern and eastern coasts.
Oceanic
Moderate temperatures and year-round rainfall in northern coastal regions.
Continental
Hot summers and cold winters in the interior central plateau.
Spain enjoys one of Europe's most varied climates:
Culture and Lifestyle
Spanish culture is renowned worldwide for its vibrancy, passion, and zest for life. Several aspects make Spanish culture unique:
Gastronomy
Spanish cuisine is diverse and regional, from paella in Valencia and gazpacho in Andalusia to pintxos in the Basque Country and cocido madrileño in Madrid. The Mediterranean diet, with its emphasis on olive oil, fresh vegetables, fish, and moderate red wine consumption, forms the foundation of Spanish cuisine.
Arts and Architecture
Spain has produced some of the world's most celebrated artists, including Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalí, Francisco Goya, and Joan Miró. Architecture ranges from Roman aqueducts and Islamic palaces to Gothic cathedrals and modernist masterpieces like Antoni Gaudí's Sagrada Familia in Barcelona.
Daily Life and Social Customs
The Spanish lifestyle is characterized by a relaxed pace and strong emphasis on enjoying life. Some distinctive features include:
Major Regions of Spain
Spain is divided into 17 autonomous communities and 2 autonomous cities, each with its own distinct character, traditions, and sometimes language. Here are some of the most notable regions:
Andalusia (Andalucía)
Spain's southernmost region is famous for its Moorish heritage, flamenco music and dance, white villages, and spectacular coastline. Major cities include Seville, Granada, Córdoba, and Málaga.
Highlights:
Alhambra Palace in Granada, Mezquita in Córdoba, Semana Santa (Holy Week) celebrations, Costa del Sol beaches
Catalonia (Catalunya)
Located in northeastern Spain with Barcelona as its capital, Catalonia has its own language (Catalan) and strong regional identity. It's known for its artistic heritage, stunning architecture, and Mediterranean coast.
Highlights:
Barcelona's Gothic Quarter and Modernist architecture, Costa Brava beaches, Pyrenees mountains, excellent gastronomy including Catalan cuisine
Madrid
The central region containing Spain's capital city is the country's political, economic, and cultural heart. Madrid offers world-class museums, beautiful parks, and vibrant urban life.
Highlights:
Prado Museum, Retiro Park, Royal Palace, Plaza Mayor, vibrant nightlife and culinary scene
Valencia
This eastern region is known for its oranges, paella (which originated here), the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences, and the famous Las Fallas festival.
Highlights:
City of Arts and Sciences, historic old town, Las Fallas festival, Mediterranean beaches, Albufera Natural Park
Balearic Islands (Islas Baleares)
This Mediterranean archipelago includes Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza, and Formentera. Each island has its own character, from Ibiza's famous nightlife to Menorca's tranquil coves.
Highlights:
Beautiful beaches and coves, crystal-clear waters, historic towns, Mediterranean lifestyle
Canary Islands (Islas Canarias)
Located off the northwest coast of Africa, this archipelago enjoys year-round spring-like temperatures. The islands feature dramatic volcanic landscapes, beautiful beaches, and unique ecosystems.
Highlights:
Mount Teide (Spain's highest peak), Timanfaya National Park on Lanzarote, sand dunes of Maspalomas on Gran Canaria, lush forests of La Gomera
Basque Country (País Vasco)
Located in northern Spain, the Basque region has its own unique language (Euskera) and strong cultural identity. It's known for its distinctive cuisine, beautiful coastline, and industrial heritage.
Highlights:
San Sebastián's La Concha beach and world-class dining, Bilbao's Guggenheim Museum, picturesque coastal towns, pintxos (Basque tapas)
Galicia
Spain's northwestern region has strong Celtic influences and its own language (Galician). Known for green landscapes, excellent seafood, and the pilgrimage destination of Santiago de Compostela.
Highlights:
Santiago de Compostela Cathedral (endpoint of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage), rugged Atlantic coastline with fjord-like rías, excellent seafood
Practical Information for Expats
Language
While Spanish (Castilian) is the official language throughout Spain, several regions have co-official languages: • Catalan in Catalonia, Valencia (as Valencian), and the Balearic Islands • Basque (Euskera) in the Basque Country and parts of Navarre • Galician in Galicia English proficiency varies across the country but is generally more common in tourist areas, major cities, and among younger Spaniards. Learning basic Spanish will significantly enhance your experience living in Spain.
Economy and Work
Spain has the eurozone's fourth-largest economy. Key sectors include: • Tourism (one of the world's most visited countries) • Agriculture (leading producer of olive oil, wine, and citrus fruits) • Automotive industry • Renewable energy • Banking and financial services The job market for expatriates is strongest in tourism, teaching English, technology, and multinational companies. Working remotely for international companies has become increasingly common, especially in expat hubs like Barcelona, Madrid, and the Costa del Sol.
Healthcare
Spain's public healthcare system consistently ranks among the world's best and is available to legal residents who contribute to social security. EU citizens can access healthcare services with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Private healthcare is also widely available and relatively affordable compared to other Western countries.
Cost of Living
Living costs in Spain are generally lower than in northern European countries or the United States, though prices vary significantly by region. Madrid and Barcelona are the most expensive cities, while smaller towns and rural areas offer a significantly lower cost of living. Housing, food, and public transportation are reasonably priced by European standards. Utilities can be expensive, particularly electricity.
Why Move to Spain?
With its excellent quality of life, sunny climate, rich cultural heritage, and relatively affordable cost of living, Spain continues to attract expatriates from around the world. Whether you're drawn to the vibrant cities, charming coastal towns, or peaceful countryside, Spain offers diverse environments to call home.
The relaxed pace of life, emphasis on social connections, excellent food, and cultural offerings make Spain particularly appealing for those seeking a balanced lifestyle where enjoying life takes precedence over constant working.
