Spain

No, Madrid is not overrated.

I thought the same before my trip. Madrid wasn’t high on my list—I was more drawn to places like Granada and Málaga. But I came across this itinerary on Pinerary that included Madrid, and it had this casual, honest vibe that made me think, “Okay, maybe it’s worth checking out.”

So I did—and I’m really glad. Madrid isn’t showy, but it slowly pulls you in. The late-night energy in the plazas, the walks through El Retiro, the tiny bars packed with locals—it all felt real and lived-in. Nothing felt overly touristy.

It ended up being one of those cities that just sticks with you. I wouldn’t skip it.

Bilbao, located in northern Spain, has a population of approximately 345,000 residents, making it the largest city in the Basque Country. The city covers an area of about 41.3 square kilometers (15.9 square miles). Bilbao is known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant arts scene, and significant industrial history. It serves as an economic and cultural hub in the region.

Christopher Columbus left Spain first. He embarked on his first voyage across the Atlantic in 1492, while Giovanni da Verrazzano set sail later, in 1524. Columbus's expeditions led to the European awareness of the Americas, whereas Verrazzano is known for his exploration of the eastern coast of North America. Thus, Columbus predates Verrazzano's departure by over three decades.

To prune pear trees in Spain, it's best to do so during late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. Focus on removing dead, damaged, or crossing branches to improve air circulation and sunlight penetration. Aim for a balanced shape by thinning out crowded areas and cutting back overly long branches to promote fruit production. Always use clean, sharp tools to minimize the risk of disease.

During the reign of Philip II, Spain was involved in numerous conflicts, including wars against England, France, and the Ottoman Empire. However, Spain was not in conflict with the Holy Roman Empire, as it was closely allied with it during this period. Instead, Philip II sought to strengthen ties with the Empire to consolidate his power in Europe.

Yes, you can receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits if you move to Spain, as long as you meet the eligibility requirements. However, you must inform the Social Security Administration (SSA) of your move and ensure that you continue to meet the criteria for receiving benefits. It's also important to consider the tax implications and how your benefits may be affected by living abroad. Additionally, if you are receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI), your eligibility may be affected by your residency in another country.

For a Seat Alhambra with an automatic transmission, the oil capacity typically ranges from about 6 to 9 liters, depending on the specific engine and model year. It's crucial to consult the owner's manual or a service manual for the exact specifications for your vehicle. Additionally, using the recommended type of oil is essential for optimal performance and longevity.

As of October 2023, Spain has been navigating various political and social challenges, including economic recovery post-COVID-19, rising inflation, and ongoing debates over regional autonomy, particularly regarding Catalonia. The Spanish government has also been focused on addressing climate change and energy transition issues. Additionally, the political landscape has been characterized by coalition governance, with parties negotiating to maintain stability amid shifting public sentiment. Social issues, including housing affordability and immigration, remain prominent in public discourse.

Spain lost its North American colonies primarily in the early 19th century, with the most significant event being the Mexican War of Independence, which began in 1810 and concluded in 1821. During this period, Spain also faced challenges in retaining control over other territories, leading to the loss of Florida to the United States in 1819 and the eventual cession of its remaining territories in North America. By the end of the Mexican War of Independence, Spain had effectively lost its major colonies on the continent.

Americans sought Spain to grant them greater autonomy and control over territories, particularly in the context of Florida and the southwestern regions. This desire was fueled by aspirations for expansion and the belief in Manifest Destiny, which emphasized the right of Americans to spread across the continent. Additionally, many Americans were interested in acquiring land for farming and settlement, leading to increased pressure on Spain for territorial concessions.

The three countries that challenged Spain and Portugal during the Age of Exploration were England, France, and the Netherlands. These nations sought to expand their own empires and engage in trade, particularly in the Americas and Asia. Their competition led to conflicts and rivalries, as they aimed to undermine the Iberian powers' dominance in global trade routes and colonial territories. This competition eventually contributed to the decline of Spanish and Portuguese hegemony in the 17th century.

The capital and cultural center of Spain is Madrid. It is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant arts scene, including famous museums like the Prado and Reina Sofia. Madrid serves as the political, economic, and social hub of the country, making it a significant destination for both locals and tourists.

Yes, Hernán Cortés grew up in Spain. He was born in 1485 in the town of Medellín, in the region of Extremadura. He came from a noble family and received a basic education before embarking on his journey to the New World in search of fortune and adventure. His experiences in Spain laid the groundwork for his later conquests in Mexico.

The Balearic Sea is pronounced as "bah-lay-AIR-ik see." The emphasis is on the second syllable of "Balearic."

Spain's success in the Americas can be attributed to its early exploration and colonization efforts, which began in the late 15th century. The Spanish established vast territories, exploiting resources and establishing trade routes that significantly enriched the crown. Additionally, Spain's cultural and religious influence shaped the social and political landscapes of many Latin American countries, leading to lasting legacies that continue to impact the region today. This golden era of expansion ultimately contributed to Spain's status as a dominant global power during the Age of Exploration.

Francisco Pizarro worked for Spain primarily due to the promise of wealth and adventure that the New World offered. Motivated by the Spanish crown's desire for expansion and conquest, he sought to gain riches through the exploration and conquest of territories in South America, particularly the Inca Empire. Pizarro's allegiance to Spain allowed him to gain official support and resources for his expeditions, ultimately leading to his success in capturing the Inca leader Atahualpa and claiming vast territories for Spain.

At the end of the fifteenth century, Christopher Columbus was not a ruler of Spain. Instead, he was an explorer sponsored by King Ferdinand II of Aragon and Queen Isabella I of Castile. The monarchs united their kingdoms and established a powerful Spanish empire, while Columbus is known for his voyages that led to the European awareness of the Americas.

Spain was a leader in the Catholic Reformation due to its strong monarchy and the influence of the Spanish Inquisition, which sought to maintain Catholic orthodoxy and combat Protestantism. The establishment of the Society of Jesus (Jesuits) in 1534, founded by Ignatius of Loyola, played a crucial role in revitalizing the Church through education, missionary work, and spiritual renewal. Additionally, Spain's commitment to Catholicism was reinforced by its political power and the Counter-Reformation efforts, which aimed to reform the Church and counteract the Protestant Reformation's spread. This combination of religious zeal and political support positioned Spain as a key player in the Catholic Reformation.

The agreement between the US and Spain that facilitated the purchase of Florida was the Adams-Onís Treaty, signed in 1819. This treaty resolved territorial disputes and allowed the US to acquire Florida in exchange for the US relinquishing claims to Texas. The agreement also established a clearer boundary between the US and Spanish territories in North America. It was a significant step in the expansion of the United States.

The center of bullfighting in Spain is traditionally considered to be Seville, particularly due to its famous bullring, La Maestranza. This city is renowned for its rich bullfighting culture and hosts significant events during the annual Feria de Abril. Other important bullfighting cities include Madrid, with the Las Ventas bullring, and Pamplona, known for the Running of the Bulls during the San Fermín festival.

King Philip II of Spain first proposed to Queen Elizabeth I of England in 1559. The proposal was part of political alliances and ambitions, as Philip sought to strengthen Spain's influence. However, Elizabeth ultimately rejected the proposal, choosing to remain single and maintain her independence.

Christina Aguilera has a strong fan base in Spain, where her music resonates with many due to her powerful vocal talent and diverse discography. She has performed in various Spanish-speaking countries, showcasing her ability to connect with fans through both English and Spanish songs, including her successful album "Mi Reflejo." Aguilera's influence in the pop music scene extends to collaborations with Spanish artists, further solidifying her presence in the region. Her visits and performances in Spain are highly anticipated events for her fans.

The sinking of the USS Maine in Havana Harbor on February 15, 1898, significantly fueled American jingoism and inflamed relations with Spain. The explosion was sensationalized by the media, particularly by newspapers owned by William Randolph Hearst and Joseph Pulitzer, which stirred public outrage and calls for intervention. This event became a rallying cry for those advocating for war, ultimately leading to the Spanish-American War. The phrase "Remember the Maine!" encapsulated the fervor and sentiment that characterized this period of American expansionism.

New Spain was considered a colony because it was established as a territory under the control of the Spanish Empire following the conquest of the Aztec Empire in the early 16th century. As a colony, it was governed by Spanish officials and operated primarily for the economic benefit of Spain, extracting resources such as gold, silver, and agricultural products. The indigenous population faced significant upheaval and exploitation, further solidifying its status as a colony. Additionally, New Spain served as a strategic base for Spanish exploration and expansion in the Americas.

The famous street in Barcelona is La Rambla, a vibrant promenade stretching approximately 1.2 kilometers (about 0.75 miles) from Plaça de Catalunya to the Christopher Columbus Monument at Port Vell. It is known for its lively atmosphere, street performers, shops, and restaurants, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. La Rambla is often considered the heart of the city, showcasing its rich culture and history.