Capital: MADRID
Spain joined the European Union on 1 January 1986, together with Portugal. Madrid has around 3.2 million inhabitants, while the national population is approximately 48 million. The main language is Spanish.
Spanish cultural traditions are deeply embedded in everyday life and local celebrations. Among the most emblematic is Semana Santa, marked by solemn and visually striking processions that blend religious devotion, art, and centuries-old rituals. Equally renowned are the San Fermín festivities in Pamplona, characterized by communal celebrations and the famous running of the bulls. Throughout the country, agricultural and seasonal festivals – such as harvest celebrations and maritime feasts – combine folk music, traditional dances, and gastronomy, reinforcing regional identities.
Spain hosts numerous internationally recognized cultural festivals that reflect the diversity of its regional identities and its strong presence in the global arts scene. The Almagro International Classical Theatre Festival is one of Europe’s leading events dedicated to Renaissance and classical theatre, while the Granada International Festival of Music and Dance celebrates performing arts in historically significant settings such as the Alhambra and other monumental spaces. Another major international reference is the San Sebastián International Film Festival, among the most prestigious film festivals in Europe, attracting filmmakers, artists, and audiences from around the world. Additional events such as Primavera Sound in Barcelona and the Seville Biennial of Flamenco further broaden the cultural panorama. Together these initiatives reinforce Spain’s role as a global cultural hub and a meeting point between historical heritage and contemporary creative expression.
Spain’s major cities reflect the country’s cultural richness and diversity. Madrid, the capital, is a leading artistic and cultural center, home to world-renowned museums, historic and contemporary architecture, and a vibrant theatrical scene. Barcelona, a symbol of art and design, combines Gaudí’s modernist legacy with international festivals and a dynamic music and creative industry. Seville, the heart of Andalusia, is internationally known for flamenco, popular festivals, and Moorish architecture. Valencia, with its strong artistic and gastronomic traditions and the iconic Fallas celebrations, represents the meeting point between innovation, folklore, and community life.
