Spain — map and facts

Spain occupies most of the Iberian Peninsula in south-western Europe and is known for its diverse regions, language and cultural heritage. Its capital is Madrid, and the country covers about 506,000 square kilometres with a population of roughly 48 million. Spain uses the euro as its currency.

About Spain

Spain is a kingdom and a constitutional monarchy with a strong tradition of regional identity, including Catalonia, the Basque Country and Andalusia. It became a global power during the age of exploration and left a lasting linguistic and cultural mark across the Americas. Today it is a member of the European Union and a popular destination for visitors. Its varied landscapes and climates support agriculture, tourism and a vibrant cultural life.

Geography and landscape

Spain borders Portugal, France, Andorra and the British territory of Gibraltar, and includes the Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean and the Canary Islands in the Atlantic. Much of the interior is a high central plateau, the Meseta, surrounded by mountain ranges such as the Pyrenees and the Sierra Nevada. The country has long coastlines on the Atlantic and the Mediterranean. The climate ranges from wet and temperate in the north to hot and dry across the central and southern regions. The Tagus, Ebro and Guadalquivir are among its main rivers.

History

The peninsula was settled by Iberians, Celts, Phoenicians and Greeks before becoming a major part of the Roman Empire. From the eighth century much of Spain came under Muslim rule, leaving a deep cultural and architectural legacy. The Christian kingdoms gradually reconquered the peninsula, completing the Reconquista in 1492, the same year Columbus reached the Americas. Spain then built a vast global empire and became one of the most powerful states in the world. The twentieth century brought a civil war and the long dictatorship of Francisco Franco. After Franco's death in 1975, Spain transitioned to democracy and joined the European Community in 1986.

Economy and currency

Spain has a large, diversified economy with strengths in tourism, agriculture, automotive production, renewable energy and services. It is one of the most visited countries in the world. The currency is the euro, which replaced the Spanish peseta in 2002. Madrid and Barcelona are the country's main economic centres.

Culture and language

The official language is Spanish, also called Castilian, spoken by hundreds of millions worldwide. Several regions also have co-official languages, including Catalan, Galician and Basque. Spain is known for flamenco, festivals such as the running of the bulls, and a rich artistic tradition from Velázquez to Picasso. Food culture, including tapas and regional cuisines, plays a central role in daily life.

Frequently asked questions

What is the capital of Spain? The capital of Spain is Madrid, located in the centre of the country. It is the largest city and the political and economic heart of Spain.

What currency is used in Spain? Spain uses the euro. It replaced the Spanish peseta in 2002, when euro notes and coins entered circulation.

What languages are spoken in Spain? The official language nationwide is Spanish, also called Castilian. Several regions also have co-official languages, including Catalan, Galician and Basque.