Spain is a country located in Southwestern Europe on the Iberian Peninsula. It shares borders with France to the northeast and Portugal to the west, while its southern coastline faces the Mediterranean Sea and the northern coast is along the Bay of Biscay. Spain is known for its diverse cultural heritage, which reflects a mix of various influences from its historical conquests and rulers, including the Romans, Moors, and Christian kingdoms. The country has a rich artistic and architectural legacy, with famous contributions in literature, painting, and architecture, exemplified by figures such as Miguel de Cervantes, Pablo Picasso, and Antoni Gaudí.
The official language is Spanish (or Castilian), but various regional languages are also co-official in their respective areas, such as Catalan, Galician, and Basque. Spain is a parliamentary constitutional monarchy, with a rich history that includes periods of exploration and empire, particularly during the 15th to 17th centuries. It is also a significant member of the European Union and has a strong economy based on industries such as tourism, manufacturing, and agriculture. Spain’s climatic diversity ranges from Mediterranean along the coasts to a more continental climate in the interior regions. It is known for its vibrant traditions, including flamenco music and dance, and annual festivals such as La Tomatina and San Fermín.