Understand Spain

Spain Today

Spain's is (very) slowly emerging from its dramatic economic collapse at a time when Catalonia looks to go it alone.

History

Spain is one of history's grand epics, from ancient civilisations and not-so-ancient battles to the hard-won freedoms of contemporary Spain.

Architecture

From Romans and Islamic sophisticates to Renaissance, Gothic and Modernista masters, Spain's architecture is the country's often-glorious past wrought in stone.

Spain's Master Painters

Spain's roll call of master painters is almost without parallel in Europe, from Goya and Velázquez to Dalí, Picasso and Miró – we take you into their worlds.

Flamenco

The centrepiece of Spain's extraordinarily rich arts scene, flamenco lays bare the Spanish soul. We help you find your entry point into this peculiarly Spanish passion.

Bullfighting

The country's most controversial pastime leaves no one indifferent. We take you through its essential elements and the debate over bullfighting's uncertain future.