Spain
From the financial capital of Madrid, to the quintessentially Spanish college town of Granada, with its grand cathedrals and famous Moorish citadel, to the quaint, comfortable villages that time passed by, Spain is a country of much diversity. To the east, the remote Pyrenees mountain range soars skyward like walls while the beaches of southern Barcelona draw great crowds from the city. Spain is well known for its long beaches, flamenco dancers, and the many tourists and backpackers.
It is a land where the Middle East meets Western Europe. Roman ruins, Moorish colonnades, and Medieval castles dot the country, inspiring architects and historians and everyone else besides. Linguistically diverse, Spaniards speak many dialects and languages, although Spanish is the dominant and official language.
The Spanish appreciate food and drink, which comes in as much variety as the many regions. Spain has a unique, rich, and vibrant culture that can be seen and experienced without spending a great deal of money.
Spain has an untouched countryside waiting to be explored. Many towns and hamlets are remote and undeveloped, but Spain also has its share of major cities like Madrid and Barcelona, where modernist art and architecture can be seen everywhere.
Study Abroad in Spain
Spain attracts thousands of study abroad students every year, some who come to learn Spanish and others who come for an education in a country with a vibrant culture, and friendly people with an appreciation for quality of life. Spanish universities offer three year (Diplomaturas) and four-five year degrees (Licentiaturas).
Barcelona, the nation’s fashion and artistic capital, is home to the prestigious University of Barcelona, one of the most popular destination in Spain for study abroad students. The Universidad Complutense in Madrid is also a prestigious institution, and the largest university in Spain. The University of Navarra is the third-ranked of Spain’s schools, and is known for its IESE Business school. The university also runs a large medical research center and a large hospital with 1700 staff. The University of Salamanca is one of the oldest in Europe, with a history dating back to 1218 when it was founded as a “General School of the Kingdom” by Alfonso IX of Leon.
Student have the opportunity to study at these and many more Spanish universities through a study abroad program provider or enroll directly into Spanish universities.
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Climate
Despite being a Mediterranean country, Spain is hot during the months of July and August, and in the north, on the shores of the Atlantic, it can be very rainy and cold during winter. The southern coast is more moderate in temperature while Madrid, in the interior of the country, can get as high as 90 degrees Fahrenheit (32 C) during the height of summer, and as low as the freezing in the depths of winter. However, precipitation is low, and the weather overall is good, especially in April, May, and October.
Health and Safety
Religion and Festivals
Spain is primarily Roman Catholic, with other Christian denominations. Increasing numbers of Muslims have immigrated to the country as well, and these make up about 2% of the population.
Transportation
Spain is a common destination and has many international airports. Ferries may be convenient for those traveling from Morocco or England. The rail system connects to Spain’s neighbors of France and Portugal. Being a developed country, Spain has road and rail networks. Many travelers opt for Spain’s bus system for transport to cities and smaller towns.