Spain

Spain, officially the Kingdom of Spain (Spanish: Reino de España), is a sovereign state located on the Iberian Peninsula in southwestern Europe. It is bordered by Portugal to its west, France and Andorra to its east, and Morocco to its south. With an area of 505,990 square kilometers (195,360 sq mi) it is one of the largest countries in Western Europe and with over 46 million people it has the sixth-largest population in the continent. The capital city is Madrid which also serves as both political and economic center.

The Spanish territory was once part of multiple empires including those belonging to Rome, Visigoths or Moors but eventually became unified under Catholic Monarchs Ferdinand II of Aragon and Isabella I of Castile during 15th century at what’s known today as Reconquista period. A global empire started forming after Christopher Columbus’ voyage discovery followed by numerous expeditions that saw Spain become one most powerful nations for centuries through 16th 18th centuries before losing much power due 19th century colonial wars notably against United States Mexico plus other conflicts such as Napoleon Bonaparte’s invasions Peninsular War . Following restoration monarchy early 20th century country went through dictatorship Francisco Franco until 1975 when democracy returned nation following Transition period leading current constitutional government headed Juan Carlos I King Spain .

Today economy driven service sector tourism industry contributing about 11% GDP while agriculture fishing remain important contributors national income ranking among world’s top producers agricultural products wine olives oranges almonds cotton sugar beets livestock wool leather forest products fish etc Tourism accounts 12 percent total spending 2010 making second highest spender European Union behind Germany In addition automotive aerospace shipbuilding electronics textiles chemicals pharmaceuticals food processing steel production energy manufacturing are all major industries providing jobs citizens along several others

Spain hosts many international organizations festivals events which draw visitors from around globe include running bulls San Fermín Festival Running Tomatina Valencia La Rioja region Santiago Compostela Camino pilgrimage Semana Santa religious processions Seville Easter celebration Las Fallas Valencia amongst many others Additionally offers rich cultural heritage renowned cuisine diverse landscape ranging Pyrenees southern coastlines Mediterranean Sea Atlantic Ocean Canary Islands Balearic Isles thus becoming popular tourist destination worldwide