Spain has a diverse landscape and culture. It has a population of Basques, Catalans, and Galicians who primarily speak Spanish. The capital is Madrid and the dominant religion is Roman Catholicism. Key traditions include bullfighting, flamenco dancing and music, and religious festivals that are central to Spanish life.

1. Spain
By: Stephen Moore

2. Quick Facts about Spain
• Capital: Madrid
• Ethnic Groups: Basques, Catalans, and Galicians
• Religion: Roman Catholic, Protestant and Islamic faiths
• Languages: Spanish, Catalan- Valencian, Galician, and Basque
• Government: Constitutional Monarchy

3. Physical Characteristics of Spain
• With an average altitude of more than 600 meters, Spain is
one of the highest countries in the world.
• It’s highest peak is a doormat volcano, Mount Tiede (The Pico
de Teide in Spanish) at 3,719 meters.
• The main plateau of Spain is the Meseta central, with an
average altitude of 650 meters, which occupies about 40
percent of the peninsula.

4. Cultural Characteristics of Spain
• Historically in Spain it has been a Roman Catholic nation and
about 99 percent of the people in Spain are baptized.
• Fiestas are a major part of Spanish life. Each city and region in
Spain has its own special fiesta, often honoring a patron saint.
• Fiesta activities include processions, fireworks, dancing,
bullfights, amusement attractions, and wearing costumes.
• Spain’s official language is Castilian which is the language
perceived to be Spanish.

5. Customs and Traditions in Spain
• One of the most popular traditions in Spain is bullfighting.
• Many tourists are excited to watch it and view it as a major
part of Spanish culture.
• Flamenco, commonly found in the Spanish region of
Andalusia, started as the typical music and dance of gypsies
that inhabited the south of Spain.
• The central part of life for almost all Spaniards is Roman
Catholic religion, which can be seen in their religious festivals,
parades, and celebrations.