Gastronomy has a crucial role in fully immersing you in the culture of a country, and if there is one thing Spain stands out for, it is its rich and diverse cuisine. Thus, in this article you will be able to immerse yourself in the world of typical Spanish food, explore its most popular dishes and be fascinated by the very different flavors.

You can read this article in Spanish, just click here.

Paella

Let’s begin with one of the most famous dishes of Spanish gastronomy: paella. This emblematic dish of Spanish cuisine has its origins in the Valencian Community.

It is a dish whose base is rice and exploits flavors that represent the culinary diversity of the country. This delicious mixture of rice, vegetables and seafood or meat is cooked with saffron and other spices. A true delight of Spanish gastronomy.

Tortilla de patata

Another classic at any Spanish table. The potato omelette is a perfect mixture of potatoes and eggs, cooked to perfection until it is creamy on the inside and golden brown on the outside.

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Typical Spanish food: most popular dishes Typical Spanish food enchants everyone who tastes it. Therefore, in this article, you will find the typical and traditional dishes of Spain: paella, tortilla or pulpo. Spain Typical Spanish food enchants everyone who tastes it. In this article, you will find the typical and traditional dishes of Spain: paella, tortilla or pulpo. typical Spanish food, Spanish traditional food, Spanish popular dishes, authentic Spanish dish, classic Spanish food, famous Spanish dishes, most popular Spanish food Off Marta Díaz

6. It receives more tourists than the number of residents

Spain is a magnet for tourists from all over the world thanks to its climate and gastronomy. But surprisingly it receives more annual visitors than the number of people living in the country.

With a population of around 47 million inhabitants, Spain attracts more than 80 million tourists a year. Amazing figures that make Spain a country loved by people who can't resist visiting it again and again.

7. Historical presence on all continents

Spain's history is marked by the expansion of its territory over the centuries. At its peak, the Spanish empire had territories on every inhabited continent, from the Americas to Asia. This historical legacy has left a lasting imprint on the country's culture and diversity.

8. The anthem of Spain has no lyrics

Another curious fact that you may not know is that Spain's anthem has no lyrics. Unlike other national anthems, Spain, whose anthem is known as the “Marcha Real”, has no official lyrics.

Although various lyrics have been proposed over the years, none have been officially adopted. This makes Spain's anthem unique and, in a way, universal, as it is recognizable by all.

9. It has almost 8,000 km of coastline

With an extensive coastline bordering the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, Spain has approximately 8,000 kilometres of coastline. From golden beaches to breathtaking cliffs, the variety of coastal landscapes offers a paradise for sun and sea lovers.

Visit coastal towns all over the country and be amazed by unique beaches in Galicia, Valencia, or Malaga.

10. It has the most famous festivals and celebrations

Spain is known for its festivals and regional festivals that are celebrated in the country. The cultural diversity extends to many places, from the April Fair in Seville to the Wine Battle in Haro. Not to mention the Fallas in Valencia or the Sanfermines in Navarra. All these festivals are an explosion of colour, music, and traditions that you can't miss.

Immerse yourself in the joy, passion and Spanish traditions that are spread throughout the country. Be amazed by the variety of celebrations that take place in every city in Spain.

These 10 curiosities make Spain a unique and exciting place to live or visit. Although the list could go on and on as there are many more curiosities about the country that you may not know.

If these facts have increased your enthusiasm for exploring the Spanish language and culture, don't hesitate to continue learning Spanish and improving your level. For that, don Quijote offers you intensive Spanish courses in Spain. Explore the country and discover our 11 destinations in the country.

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Have you started studying Spanish? If you want to immerse yourself more in the language and learn interesting facts, here you will find 10 curiosities about Spain that you didn't know. A country full of history, culture and traditions that will not leave you indifferent.

Knowing curiosities about the country whose language you are studying can be a fun and educational way to improve your cultural understanding. So, here are 10 facts about Spain that you probably didn't know.

If you prefer to read this article in Spanish, click here.

1. Spanish, a global language

Did you know that Spanish is the second most spoken language in the world in terms of native speakers and as a second language? With more than 460 million native speakers and millions more who study it as a foreign language, Spanish has become a cultural bridge that unites people from different parts of the planet.

2. It has a land border with Africa

Spain is the only European country that shares a land border with an African country. That country is Morocco, thanks to the autonomous cities of Ceuta and Melilla.

These two cities are located on the north coast of Africa, so they border Morocco. Thus, a unique connection is established between two different continents.

3. It is the country with the highest number of organ donations

Another fact that you probably did not know is that Spain is the world leader in organ donation. Thanks to its efficient donation system, the country has achieved exceptional rates of donation and transplants. Solidarity and awareness of the importance of donation have made Spain a benchmark in this field.

With an average of 47 donors per million in 2022, Spain remains the country with the highest donation activity worldwide, as of 2019. The United States follows with 44.5 donors per million population.

4. UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Spain holds the title of third country with the third largest number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. With 49 recognized sites, it is in the top 5 countries with places of greatest historical interest.

Among these 49 sites are: the Alhambra, the Sagrada Familia or the Camino de Santiago. Therefore, Spain has great cultural and architectural treasures that will surprise you.

5. It has the oldest restaurant in the world

If you ever travel to Madrid and want to enjoy a unique experience, you cannot miss El Botin. This restaurant has been recognized by the Guinness Book of Records as the oldest in the world, with more than 300 years of history.

Savor traditional dishes in a place full of history in the heart of the capital.

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5. Los peces en el río

Another classic that can't be missing in your Christmas list of Spanish carols is "Los peces en el río". The title means the fishes in the river and the lyrics narrate the atmosphere around the virgin Mary and baby Jesus. Here is one verse:

“Pero mira cómo beben los peces en el río,

Pero mira cómo beben por ver al Dios nacido.

Beben y beben y vuelven a beber

Los peces en el río por ver a Dios nacer.”

6. Feliz Navidad

This song transcends borders and invites us to celebrate Christmas with joy and good wishes. This Christmas carols is called "Feliz Navidad", which means Merry Christmas.

 Here is a part of this song in Spanish:

“Feliz Navidad, Feliz Navidad,

Feliz Navidad, próspero año y felicidad.

A todos quiero desearles siempre

Felicidad, es un gran presente

Es el momento de que gocemos

Mucha paz, vengan a cantar.”

7. A Belén, pastores

Finally, a song that encourages everyone who sings it and whose verses are a festive call that you cannot overlook. This carol "A Belén, pastores", which title means “To Bethlehem, shepherds”, has its origin in the 18th century.

This is one of its verses:

“A Belén pastores, a Belén chiquitos,

que ha nacido el Rey de los angelitos.

Los pastores de Belén, todos juntos van por leña,

para calentar al Niño que nació en la Nochebuena.”

These are just a few of the many Spanish Christmas carols that exist. With these songs and rhythms, you can fill your home with the Christmas spirit and learn a little more about Spain and its culture.

Although if you want to improve your level, the key is learning Spanish in Spain. Get into the culture and experience a different Christmas in Spain or in Latin American, in countries like Mexico with don Quijote. Our schools have intensive Spanish courses for all ages and levels. Enjoy the music, the parties and the lights while improving your Spanish.

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Christmas is approaching and as usual, the atmosphere is filled with joy, lights, and Christmas music. In this article, you can immersed yourself in the charm of Spanish Christmas through a very special musical tradition: Christmas carols.

These songs are an essential part of the Christmas celebration in Spanish-speaking countries and knowing them will allow you to immerse yourself even more in the cultural richness of the country. Let the Christmas spirit invade you with these popular Spanish Christmas carols.

If you prefer to read this article in Spanish, click here.

1. Noche de Paz

The first carol you are going to learn is "Noche de Paz", the Spanish Christmas translation for Silent Night. This Christmas song is a universal carol that has crossed borders and has been translated into several languages.

Its original Spanish lyrics are emotional and remind us of the true meaning of Christmas. Here are some verses:

“Noche de paz, noche de amor,

Todo duerme en derredor.

Entre sus astros que esparcen su luz.

Brilla anunciando al niñito Jesús.

Brilla la estrella de paz.

Brilla la estrella de amor.”

2. Campana sobre campana

This carol is one of the best known in Spain. “Campana sobre campana” is a carol in Spanish that will transport you to the most famous holiday celebration in the world. The meaning of the title is “Bell upon bell” and its verses are contagious and easy to remember:

“Campana sobre campana,

y sobre campana una,

asómate a esa ventana,

verás al Niño en la cuna.

Belén, campanas de Belén

Que los ángeles tocan

¿Qué nuevas me traéis?”

3. El burrito sabanero

Originally from Venezuela, but which has reached everywhere, the popular song called “El burrito sabanero”. This carol full of rhythm and colour makes everyone equally happy and has a very catchy rhythm. Here is an excerpt:

“Con mi burrito sabanero, voy camino de Belén.

Con mi burrito sabanero, voy camino de Belén.

Si me ven, si me ven

Voy camino de Belén.

Si me ven, si me ven

Voy camino de Belén.”

4. Ay del chiquirritín

Adding another Christmas carol to our list, “Ay del Chiquirritín” is a gem of Spanish Christmas music. This song, full of tenderness and devotion, immerses us in the magic of Christmas. Here is a part of the carol:

“Ay del chiquirritín, chiquirriquitín,

Metidito entre pajas.

Ay del chiquirritín, chiquirriquitín,

Queridín, queridito del alma.”

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