"Spain has been one of the great cultural centers of Europe for thousands of years"

It has been the crossroads between Europe and Africa and has been invaded by different races and civilizations. This influence can be seen in the architecture, culture, and food throughout various regions of Spain.

The Spanish Moors influenced the architecture of the Alhambra in Grenada. What a magnificent place to visit! The Gardens of Genaralfe border the Alhambra. These gardens inspired Washington Irving to write the Tales of Alhambra. Toledo is a World Heritage Site. El Greco lived in Toledo and his masterpiece, The Burial of the Count of Orgaz, is located in the 13th century Church of St. Tome. When in Toledo, you must also visit the medieval Synagogue.

Stay at the Parador overlooking Toledo , sit outside and enjoy a drink and dinner while watching the sun set over Toledo. There is a distinctive feeling of spirituality in Toledo . Visit Santiago de Compostela, the capital of Galicia, which is the final destination of the Camino de Santiago (Way of St. James) Pilgrimage route. This medieval old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Designation. Stay at the Parador, Hostal Dos Catolicos, which is the best Parador in Spain. It used to be a hospital built in 1499 for the pilgrims. This Parador is considered to be the oldest hotel in Spain and one of the most beautiful and luxurious hotels. You can easily get lost in all the nooks and crannies of this hotel. But what a hotel!

Enjoy the Modernism architecture of Antonio Gaudi in Barcelona. His famous cathedral, Sagrada Familia, is still being constructed after 114 years. Visit the Prado Museum in Madrid . This is one of the most famous museums in the world.

There is more to Spain than just architecture and art. When visiting Spain, you must spend an evening seeing Flamenco. Flamenco is the music and dance of the south especially in Andalucia. Flamenco consists of song, dance and guitar. Flamenco makes for quite a wonderful and fun evening. It is not to be missed. If you have the stomach, go to a bull fight in Madrid . This is quite an event, but not for everyone.

The geography and culture in Spain is quite diverse. You can swim at beautiful beaches, hike and fish in the mountains. The food and wine are a gourmet's delight. I have barely touched on all to see and do in Spain. It is a country to visit not once but many times.