Country Background
Both Spain and Portugal share the Iberian Peninsula. In the past, Spain actively explored and colonized many places. Though most of these places have sought and gained independence, there are a number of smaller areas, which are still considered part of Spain's kingdom, such as the Canary Islands, the Balearic Islands, Ceuta, and Melilla.

Spain has a rich and varied history that has carried over into modern Spanish culture. However, as more and more people move to Spain's cities, where the majority of the population lives, some of the old customs like "siestas" (a nap or rest in the afternoon) are fading away.

Though it is correct to say that the people of Spain speak Spanish, Spaniards use may different dialects of the language. The form of Spanish most commonly spoken is called Castilian.

Related Links

There is a lot more to learn about Spain!

Explore these sites for facts and figures Spain. • ABCNews.com Country Profile: Spain • Ask Jeeves for Kids: Spain • Atlapedia Online: Spain • CIA World Fact Book 1999: Spain • Discovery School A to Z Geography: Spain • Library of Congress Federal Research Division • On the Line: A Virtual Journey in Spain • Travel Channel: Spain See political maps or physical maps of Spain. Relive the 1992 Barcelona Olympics on the Sydney 2000 Fans site. Visit Valencia on a virtual trip where you can tour Valencia and read some Castilian. Step back in history to Imperial Spain. Look at a map and find out about Aragon and Castile. Read a copy of Columbus's letter sent to the King and Queen of Spain about the Island of Espanola.

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3-D Atlas Discovery School A-Z Geography National Geographic Sydney 2000: Countries USA TODAY Parade of Nations