Culture & Holidays in Spain

Spain is a country filled with history and diverse cultural backgrounds.

Spain is a country filled with history and diverse cultural backgrounds. It has been influenced by many different cultures. This can be seen in the country's language, art, architecture, food and various celebrations. Spain is the perfect destination to experience different places, learn about different cultures, and meet new and interesting people.

History

Spain is located on the Iberian Peninsula and was first occupied by the Iberians and the Celts. Spain came under the rule of the Roman Empire in 206 BC and it became known as the province of Hispania. The Moors (Muslims) arrived from Africa during the 8th century where they ruled until the end of the 15th century. During their rule, the Moors notably influenced the architecture and language of Spain.

After the invasion of the Moors, Christian kingdoms established the Reconquista in an attempt to reclaim Spain. The Reconquista lasted until 1492 when Granada, the last Moorish ruled city, was conquered. Roman Catholicism was made the official religion of Spain. That same year, the Queen commissioned Christopher Columbus to look for a route to India. Columbus discovered the Americas and brought back silver and gold. These two events made Spain a unified and powerful country. Several wars led to the country's decline until 1986 when Spain became a member of the European Union.

Art

Spain is well known for its art and architectural achievements. The works of renowned Spanish painters such as Salvador Dali, Picasso and Juan Gris can be admired at Museo Reina Sofia in Madrid. Spanish architecture contains a mixture of different styles. The Romans built an amphitheater in Merida, Spain around 8 BC. This structure seated up to 15,000 people and was used for bullfighting, chariot races and gladiator battles. It is still used today for the annual Classic Theater Festival. The Moors built lavish mosques and castles composed of courtyards and fountains. Structures built by the Moors can be seen in Seville and Toledo, Spain.

Food

Spanish food is known for its freshness and rich taste. The Moors and the Jews introduced a variety of different foods such as nuts, fruits, rice, saffron and nutmeg. Many Spanish dishes are composed of locally grown vegetables, fruits, light spices and fresh seafood. Vegetables and fruits are popular snacks that are eaten everyday. Fresh seafood is abundant in Spain as the country is enclosed by water on three sides. Olive oil is an essential ingredient in many Spanish dishes. The Spanish take great care in using only high quality olive oil in their food.

Holidays

Spain celebrates many holidays that are a mixture of religious, local and national customs. Certain holidays are selected locally and others are selected by the national government. Spain celebrates a national feast day the same day each year. Each city also celebrates their own feast days to honor their patron Saints. National public holidays include New Year's Day, Epiphany, All Saints Day and Christmas Day. All stores and banks are closed on public holidays with the exception of museums and attractions. The month of August is when many of the Spanish will take vacations to visit family and friends. Most shops and businesses will usually be closed for the entire month.

Fiestas

Spain is also known for its fun and lively celebrations that are held throughout the year. These fiestas are celebrated outdoors and typically include music, fireworks, parades, and enjoying traditional Spanish dishes. Carnival in Cadiz is one of the largest carnival celebrations in the world. The fun involves comedians, musical acts, rock concerts, parades, beauty pageants, carnival rides, fireworks and a variety of street vendors. San Juan's night is another celebration that includes hundreds of bonfires, dancing, music and fireworks.

References

• Tour Spain: Spanish History
• Go Madrid: Spanish Public Holidays 2010