Study, work and live in Spain

Spain is modern country with a proud history. In the 16th and 17th centuries, Spain’s powerful global empire was larger than any other, and set the way for the European colonial era. After decades of dictatorial rule under Franco in the twentieth century, Spain has finally emerged as a modern democracy. It is a member of NATO and of the European Union and today has one of the most vibrant economies in Europe.

Spain’s cultural heritage comprises both the Islamic and Jewish traditions as well as the Roman Catholic, and many Spanish towns, such as Toledo, Granada and Cordoba bear witness to this. Spain’s achievements in the arts are led by Velazquez, Goya, and by Pablo Picasso, who is perhaps the best known artist of the twentieth century. Spanish literature also has a rich tradition, with Cervantes’ Don Quixote being one of the most popular novels ever written. Spanish cinema in recent years is also very popular with the films of Pedro Almodovar and Alejandro Amenabar.

Quick facts:

• Population- 40,398,000 (est 2006)
• Principal Language(s)- Castilian Spanish, Catalan, Basque
• Capital- Madrid
• Other major cities- Barcelona, Valencia, Seville
• Monetary unit- 1 Euro = 100 cents
• Internet domain- .es
• International dialling code- +34