Spain is a southwestern European country with a rich and layered history, shaped by Roman, Visigothic, and nearly 800 years of Moorish rule. Its diverse cultural heritage is reflected in its world-famous architecture, from the Alhambra palace to Gaudí’s Sagrada Família, and its profound influence on global art, cuisine, and festivals.

Madrid became the capital of Spain in 1561 under King Philip II, transforming it from a modest settlement into a major European hub of politics and culture. Today, it is a vibrant metropolis renowned for its world-class art museums, historic plazas, and dynamic urban life.