Guide to Spain

A trip to Spain is likely to start in Madrid, its capital and biggest city. Few European cities have more to offer - a vibrant atmosphere, an excellent climate and many interesting monuments and attractions. Two landmarks here are the royal monastery of San Lorenzo and the Royal Palace. It may no longer be a residence, but it is fascinating nonetheless, featuring amazing architecture and the beautiful Sabattini and del Moro gardens. It displays works by some of the most famous artists in the world, such as El Greco, Goya and Rubens.

This city has recovered from the totalitarian regime of Franco and is a modern and cosmopolitan centre of art and culture today. It is one of the most prosperous cities in the region of south Europe. Furthermore, it facilitates excellent links between the EU, of which Spain is a member, and Latin America. An exceptional cultural venue is the Opera, Teatro Real, just behind the Royal Palace.

An important Spanish cultural venue and landmark is the Prado Museum. Located in Madrid, it is biggest art museum in the world, featuring vast, diverse art collections. Prado exhibits 2000 paintings with another 8600 in storage owing to lack of space. Some of the works displayed are by famous artists like Raphael, Rubens and Goya. Raphael's The Maids of Honour, completed circa 1656, can be seen here among others. Highlights include The Knight and the Holy Family by Goya, as well as Rubens' Three Graces. A little known fact is that the artist's wife was one of the models.

Charles III commissioned the Prado Museum in the late 18th century. His goal was to provide Madrid with a remarkable monument, like those that existed in other European cities at the time, and he has certainly succeeded. You will enjoy gazing upon the lofty domes of this architectural hallmark. Other notable edifices are the Rotunda and the Central Gallery on the first floor.

You should be aware that Barcelona is not to be associated solely with the football team. Many magnificent buildings designed by Spanish architect Antoni Gaudi are located here, and seven of them are on UNESCO's list of World Heritage sites. In fact, he is a major part of Barcelona's cultural heritage. You will enjoy a visit to the Sagrada Familia cathedral, Casa Batllo, Casa Mila, Palau Guell and the Colonia Guell crypt. The first is no less than Gaudi's masterpiece, left unfinished. Upon completion it will be the tallest church in the entire world. Palau Guell is a magnificent palace, the centre of which is formed by an airy, luminous banquet hall. Classic parabolic arches, Gaudi's signature, form the design basis of the front gates.

You will certainly enjoy a visit to Andalusia, an autonomous region of Spain. Remarkable ruins of Arabian buildings can be found here, dating back to the age of Arab rule in Spain. Important remnants are the Mezquita and the Tower of the Gold. There are entertainments and activities for everyone here, including skiing, water sports, extreme sports, cave exploring, art galleries and historical landmarks. Andalusia is simply heaven on earth, with an extremely diverse wildlife and a pleasant mild climate, thick forests and beautiful natural scenery.