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Information about Spain and its history
People of Spain
The Spanish people are a mixture of the indigenous people of the Iberian Peninsula with the successive peoples who conquered the peninsula and occupied it for extended periods.There are several ethnic groups that make up 25% of the Spanish population. These include the Catalans, who live in the north east and the eastern islands. The galicians who live in the north west region and the basques, or Euskal-dun who reside mainly around the bay if Biscay.
Arts, Culture and Music of Spain
Over recent years, Spanish life has changed dramatically and many of the strict religious customs are giving way to more modern ways. However, many old customs and traditions have not faded. Handshaking is the customary form of greeting and kisses on both cheeks is normal. If invited to a private home, a small gift is
appreciated. Flowers are only sent for special celebrations. Away from the holiday resorts beachwear should be confined to beach or poolside and shirts should always be worn in public places and on public transport. Smoking is widely accepted, even in banks and shops but not on public transport. Just about all Spanish towns and cities have their own special celebrations, as well as the national holidays such as Christmas, Easter Week, All Saints Day etc. The way in which the national events are celebrated also varies from region to region. Most festivities are of religious base, mainly Catholic.
Economy of Spain
Over the last 3 decades, Spain has been transformed from a rural, agricultural country into a nation with a diversified economy with strong manufacturing and service sectors.Spanish industry is mainly small and medium sized family concerns and there are only three companies in Europe's top 100 (Telefónica, Endesa and Repsol). It's significant that Spains economy hasn't got one manufacturer among Europe's largest companies and most manufacturers are too small to compete globally. Spain has relied heavily on foreign investment (three-quarters of it in Barcelona and Madrid) for much of its recent growth, although many investors turned their backs on Spain during the recession. Over 30% of Spanish industry is foreign-owned, including some 50% of its food production which is mostly French owned.