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Spain is one of the most beloved European travel destinations. It is a beautiful country known for its diversity, excellent climate, wide range of activities, and countless entertainment opportunities. It is the land of bullfighting and Flamenco, of endless sunshine and stunning beaches, of outstanding cuisine and refreshing sangria. A trip to Spain is not only about nature and leisure; it is also a great opportunity to discover the country's remarkable historical journey and rich cultural heritage. Visitors experience their holidays in a unique and breathtaking natural environment while also getting to know the customs and lifestyle of a people with a culture different from their own. Spain is a country in southwestern Europe that occupies most of the Iberian Peninsula. To the north, it is bordered by the Bay of Biscay and France, separated by the Pyrenees mountain range. It also shares a northeastern border with Andorra along the Pyrenees. To the east and south, it is washed by the Mediterranean Sea, except for a small area belonging to Gibraltar, while to the southwest it is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean. To the west, it shares a border with Portugal. The mainland of Spain is dominated by plateaus and mountain ranges such as the Pyrenees and the Sierra Nevada. Major rivers such as the Ebro, Duero, Tagus, and Guadalquivir originate from these regions. Off the eastern coast in the Mediterranean Sea lie the Balearic Islands, while the Canary Islands are located near the coast of Africa. In terms of political system, Spain is a constitutional monarchy with a hereditary monarch and a bicameral parliament known as the Cortes Generales. The Constitution of 1978 emphasizes linguistic and cultural diversity within a unified Spain. The capital of Spain is Madrid. The largest cities with major tourist interest include Barcelona, Valencia, Seville, Toledo, Zaragoza, Málaga, Granada, and Córdoba. Most of the population consists of Spaniards, who make up about three-quarters of the total population. Catalans represent about 16%, Galicians about 8%, and Basques, considered one of the oldest populations of the country, about 2%. The official language is Spanish, while Basque is also spoken by a smaller part of the population. Spain has a long history and a rich cultural heritage. Notable artists include Velázquez in the 17th century, Goya in the 18th century, Picasso and Dalí in the 19th century, and Miró in the 20th century. Spanish music and Flamenco dance are admired worldwide. Spanish cuisine is famous for its rich and diverse flavors. Some of the most iconic dishes every visitor should try include paella, made with rice, chicken, seafood, and vegetables, and tortilla española, an omelet with potatoes, usually accompanied by sangria, a refreshing drink made from red wine and fruit.
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