An Overview of Spain
Located at the western edge of the Mediterranean, Spain shares the Iberian Peninsula with Portugal and includes the Balearic Islands, in the Mediterranean, and the smaller Canary Islands off its Atlantic coast.
While probably most famous for the sunshine destinations of the Costa del Sol and the Costa Brava, Spain has a lot more than that to offer, and is a very diverse country, both culturally and geographically.
Far fewer tourists make it to the lush meadows in the Northern provinces or the near desert interiors of the South. In winter there is skiing in the resorts of the Pyrenees and the cities of Spain are not just architecturally beautiful but vibrant and exciting places to visit.
General Information about Spain
Capital: Madrid
Official language: Spanish
Population: 41 million
Currency: Euro
Calling code: +27
Religion
Although often looked on as a very Catholic country, Spain is a secular state, and while more than 90% of Spaniards describe themselves as Catholic, surveys consistently report that less than 20% are regular church goers.
Almost all religions and churches are represented in Spain and the state treats all religions the same way.
Climate
When it comes to weather Spain can be broadly divided into four regions.
Eastern and southern Spain and the Balearic Islands have a typical Mediterranean climate, with hot dry summers and cooler winters.
In the interior Summers are very hot in the south, around Seville and Cordoba and become a little cooler as you move north. Winters are very cold, especially in the north.
On the Northern Atlantic coast, a more temperate climate prevails, with mild but usually warm and wet cold winters.
The Canary Islands have their own sub tropical microclimate, with warm temperatures all year round.