Spain's Best

High blood pressure is a serious health condition that can contribute to heart attacks, strokes, aneurysms, kidney disease, and other problems. High blood pressure (or hypertension) is a common medical problem, especially among diabetics.

While there are many ways to rein in high blood pressure, one of the simplest and best methods is to eat a good diet. Here are ten foods found to be especially effective in lowering blood pressure in clinical research.

1. Bananas
Foods high in potassium, such as bananas, help to lower blood pressure. This is because an excessive salt intake is one of the leading factors in hypertension, and potassium helps to naturally regulate salt levels in the body. Plus, bananas are an easy-to-eat natural snack.

2. Beans
Beans of all sorts can reduce blood pressure. Besides their potassium content, beans have lots of heart-healthy fiber. A healthy heart can better maintain good blood pressure. Beans are also high in protein, which has been connected to low blood pressure in research.

3. Spinach
This dark, leafy green is great for your health in general, and will specifically help blood pressure because of the potassium, magnesium, and folate found in the vegetable. Like potassium, folate and magnesium are valuable for keeping blood pressure down.

4. Blueberries
An easy natural snack, blueberries provide your body with flavonoids, a group of natural compounds shown to help prevent hypertension by lowering blood pressure levels.

5. Chocolate
You wouldn’t think that a food as tasty as chocolate could have any positive health benefits, but chocolate does lower blood pressure. Research has discovered that the cacao found in chocolate contains compounds that limit blood pressure levels by dilating blood vessels. Opt for dark chocolate, which has more cacao.

6. Beets
The juice of this root holds nitrates that have been found to quickly lower blood pressure among hypertension patients. Once ingested, nitrates become nitric oxide, a gas that helps blood vessels stay dilated by relaxing their smooth muscle.

7. Potatoes
The minerals potassium and magnesium are found in abundance in potatoes, so eating this food will put a damper on your high blood pressure. Potatoes also contain nitrates. Avoid loading your potatoes with large amounts of salty butter or sour cream, or frying them in unhealthy seed oils.

8. Milk
Products with lots of calcium are good for high blood pressure, making milk a great option for those with hypertension. Try drinking skim milk, though, since milk rich in fat will exacerbate blood pressure problems.

9. Olive Oil
Daily consumption of at least two tablespoons of phenol-rich extra virgin olive oil can be effective in lowering blood pressure. In one study, 35 per cent of the participants were able to discontinue their hypertensive medications after consuming EVOO for six months.

10. Oatmeal
A high-fibre diet protects from hypertension, making oatmeal a good choice. Since fibre is digested slowly, blood sugar levels are kept in check, which in turn reduces blood pressure. Plus, oatmeal has very little fat and sodium.

Hypertension is sometimes termed a ‘silent killer’ because the malady has no obvious symptoms. Considering how common the condition is, check with your doctor and consider making changes to incorporate more of these heart-healthy foods in your diet.

[source OOT]

Lights, floats, pages, sweets, and a lot of excitement are all you need to make a procession of the Magi or Three Kings into a one-of-a-kind experience. Even so, every year towns and cities go the extra mile to make these parades special: theatrical productions with top-quality settings and costumes, and fabulous fireworks. From all the processions organised in Spain every 5 January, we have chosen five which amaze children and adults alike, due to their spectacular production values, their originality, or their history.

1. Alcoy, the oldest in Spain

Any discussion of Magi processions in Spain has to begin with Alcoi, which has been holding its parade since 1885. This is not its only impressive statistic - it also has an enormous number of participants, with nearly a thousand people in the procession. One of the most exciting parts of the parade is the torch-bearers, who light the way for the floats and the royal pages. As always in the Valencia region, bands of musicians are an essential part of the procession, with Christmas carols to add to the mood. Up to three bands participate in the parade, as well as groups of drummers and dulzainas (pipers). Another feature of this parade is the work of les negres, the royal pages who bring presents to the children, using wooden ladders to climb up to the balconies of the houses. Traditionally, the event begins at 6 pm and ends after 10 pm, with the sky lit up by an impressive fireworks display.

2. Girona, all lit up

Processions of the Three Kings in Girona province are lit in a very special way, with the fanalets all the children carry. These are small lanterns, made of paper and brightly painted, with a lightbulb inside and carried on a stick. In recent years they have been modernised and can be bought in the shape of one of the Magi, a Christmas tree, a snowman, or even the latest popular cartoon character. The tradition is thought to have begun in mountain villages where the children would light bunches of lavender to make sure the Three Kings would see them, even though there was no procession in the village. Now there are many towns and villages where children light the parade with their little lanterns, in one of Catalonia's most endearing Christmas scenes. Although the tradition has spread throughout the region, the processions in Girona province, such as in the cities of Girona or Vic, are still among the most spectacular.

3. Cerler, the Magi on skis 

Few presentations are as spectacular as the arrival of the Three Kings at the Cerler ski resort, in the Huesca Pyrenees. Their Majesties sweep down the slopes, leaving the children open-mouthed in amazement, as well as their parents - it is pretty unusual to see the Three Kings riding a chairlift or performing pirouettes on skis. For the whole morning, they chat with the children and pose for photos with them, and even hand out sweets, without the need for royal pages. The celebration continues in the afternoon in Benasque, with a more traditional and restrained procession - this is a small village - but with the best possible setting. There's no need to use fake snow to decorate the parade here, as the real thing is usually in plentiful supply for Epiphany, and the scene could hardly be more picturesque.

4. Madrid, the most spectacular

Although there are several processions in the capital every 5 January, the most spectacular pass through the city centre. This is one of the biggest in Spain, with more than 1,500 volunteers taking part. The route traditionally begins at Nuevos Ministerios and ends at Plaza de Cibeles, like so many of the city's major celebrations. It was first held in 1928, and one of its unusual features is that since the late 1980s, the Three Kings have been played by members of the City Council. Another peculiarity is that the people in this parade don't throw sweets into the crowd along the whole route, only in the fenced-off areas. The City Council introduced this measure in 2014 for the children's safety. The parade ends with a fireworks display after a speech by the Magi in Plaza de Cibeles.

5. Santillana del Mar, like a fairytale 

This is one of the prettiest medieval towns in all of Spain, so here the processions of the Magi have an incomparable setting, one of the main factors which have made it an official National Tourism Festival. The setup is different from most because as well as the traditional procession, eight scenes are performed from a Mystery Play, the Auto Sacramental de Los Reyes Magos. The streets are covered in straw, torches are lit as dusk falls, and the townspeople dress up as pages, washerwomen and shepherds. The scene-setting and the participation of many of the residents completely transform Santillana, giving the sensation of having travelled back in time more than two thousand years. The numbers give an idea of the majestic scale of the event: nearly 500 extras, 100 torch-bearers, 5 floats and around twenty horses to thrilling young and old alike with the magic of Christmas.

This year most ski slopes all across the country are still yet to open, but no doubt they will all be opening their doors very shortly. If you have plans to go skiing this season take a look at the top 10 resorts on offer:

Spain is a country renowned for its vibrant culture, rich history, and delectable cuisine, but perhaps nothing embodies the Spanish spirit quite like tapas. These small, flavour-packed dishes bring people together to enjoy a variety of tastes and textures, reflecting regional specialities and innovative culinary twists.

Join me as we embark on a gastronomic journey through Spain, uncovering the top 10 cities that promise the most unforgettable tapas experiences. These cities offer a delightful array of tapas that will leave your taste buds craving more:

1. Seville

The Andalusian capital has more than 215 establishments that offer these small portions with the highest quality. Its gastronomy is full of traditional recipes such as "cazón marinado" - marinated dogfish or otherwise known as mako shark, the Montadito de Pringá or a very cool Gazpacho.

2. Granada

Granada ranks second in this ranking thanks to its more than 150 restaurants that work to offer the best tapas you have ever tasted. Its tasty, varied and simple gastronomy, based on the variety and richness of local products that nature offers, such as vegetables, meats from Sierra Nevada or fish from the Motril coast. Tapas such as roast ham, croquettes or "Carne en salsa - meat in sauce" will keep you coming back for more.

3. Santiago de Compostela

Santiago de Compostela has 72 restaurants specialising in tapas. The Galician city stands out gastronomically for its seafood, considered the best in Europe, although we cannot ignore its excellent meats. All this translates into spectacular snacks that, enjoyed with a good bottle of Albariño, will make you touch the heavens.

4. Cadiz

Cadiz has 82 restaurants specialising in tapas. Cuttlefish, bluefin tuna, shrimp omelette or mackerel with piriñaca definitely stand out. Typically food in Cádiz is made up of a variety of dishes and delicacies predominantly from the sea.

5. Malaga

Málaga has 137 restaurants specialising in tapas. Malaga's gastronomy is characterised by being healthy, of quality, varied and, above all, well-priced. The art of tapas in Malaga goes much further than just tasting small and tasty snacks; tapas are enjoying the company of friends, a good bottle of wine, a chat and letting yourself get impregnated by the open character of the people of Malaga. The fried fish or the Malaga salad is not to be missed.

6. Salamanca

Salamanca has 76 restaurants specializing in tapas. Its gastronomy is recognized for its great variety and quality, with special emphasis on its legumes, denomination of origin, meats such as roast lamb and sausages such as Iberian ham or chorizo.

7. Toledo

Toledo has 55 restaurants specialising in tapas. Apart from its medieval beauty, Toledo has another attraction: its gastronomy. Toledo's cuisine is characterised by deep-rooted traditions and this is shown in its most typical tapas such as Repollo de Ludeña - cabbage, grilled octopus or the Bomb at the Trebol restaurant.

8. Almeria

Almería has 114 restaurants specialising in tapas. Being a typically agricultural region with a coastal area, its cuisine is closely linked to the vegetable garden and to the sea. As a result, a multitude of tasty tapas such as fish roe in vinaigrette, grilled octopus or "patatas a la pobre" will make you extend your stay in this wonderful city.

9. A Coruña

A Coruña has 84 restaurants specialising in tapas in which fish and seafood are the protagonists. Tapas and servings of the highest quality can be found throughout the bars, taverns and restaurants all over A Coruña, along with wines, beers and a sensational atmosphere. The octopus, the empanadas and the pork shoulder should definitely be on the list.

10. Pontevedra

Pontevedra has 68 restaurants specialised in tapas. It achieved a score of 5.81 out of 10 and a multitude of small bars that populate every square and every alley, and that will delight everyone who wants to try the fantastic traditional Galician cuisine. Seafood, with its famous oysters and cockle patties, or fish and lamprey as the main protagonist, is the most requested in bars and restaurants. But you can also enjoy good pork and beef.

Start eating!

Nestled within the awe-inspiring Parque Natural de los Arribes del Duero, the Pozo de los Humos waterfall has recently been crowned the most beautiful waterfall in Spain, according to the loyal followers of Escapada Rural. Located between the provinces of Salamanca and Zamora, this captivating cascade, with its majestic 50-metre drop, offers an unforgettable visual spectacle heightened by the mist and vapour that emanate when the water collides with the pool below.

A Stunning Autumn Destination

Autumn emerges as the quintessential season to revel in the natural splendour of Pozo de los Humos. The seasonal rainfall swells the flow of the Uces River, culminating in a dramatic plunge into a narrow canyon. This descent conjures a rising cloud of mist and vapour, enhancing the distinctive “smoke” effect that lends the waterfall its evocative name. Coupled with the vibrant autumnal scenery, the Pozo de los Humos transforms into an idyllic haven for those yearning to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature's tranquillity.

One of Pozo de los Humos' greatest appeals lies in its accessibility from various points, affording visitors the opportunity to explore multiple hiking routes. From the municipality of Masueco in Salamanca, an approximately three-kilometre trail leads to a scenic lookout, where the waterfall's full glory unfolds before your eyes. This well-marked path meanders through an enchanting natural environment, surrounded by indigenous vegetation, heightening the hiking experience.

An alternative, shorter route begins in Pereña de la Ribera, Zamora, guiding adventurers to yet another vantage point offering a distinct but equally breathtaking view of the waterfall. Both trails enable visitors to savour the surrounding environment while providing unique perspectives of this remarkable cascade.

Pozo de los Humos is not only celebrated for its beauty but also forms part of an ecologically and culturally rich natural reserve. The Parque Natural de los Arribes del Duero, sculpted by the Duero and Uces Rivers, shelters a diverse array of flora and fauna. The canyon's precipitous walls are a sanctuary for protected species such as the golden eagle, griffon vulture, and black stork—birds that find a safe nesting habitat in this rugged terrain. Botanically, the region merges Mediterranean species like holm oaks, cork oaks, and olive trees with plants from more humid climates, creating a distinctive and ecologically valuable landscape.

Exploring Historical Treasures

Adding to its allure, the region near the waterfall is home to the enchanting Palla Rubia Cave, a historical gem that offers a tangible connection to the area's ancient past with its intriguing cave paintings. This cultural richness complements the natural beauty of the site, providing an immersive experience that links visitors to the region's remote history.

A Must-Visit for Nature Enthusiasts

This beautiful corner of Salamanca has firmly established itself as a favourite destination for those seeking a unique autumnal escape, particularly among enthusiasts of rural tourism and nature getaways. It is no surprise that Pozo de los Humos has been voted Spain's most beautiful waterfall; its breathtaking visuals and sensory experiences leave an indelible mark on all who visit.

Whether you are captivated by the ecological diversity, the vibrant autumn foliage, or the sheer natural spectacle of the Pozo de los Humos, this destination promises an unparalleled experience. As a refuge of biodiversity, a haven of history, and a treasure trove of natural beauty, the Pozo de los Humos stands as a testament to nature’s power and splendour, inviting you to lose yourself in its enchanting embrace.

For those planning to witness this marvellous waterfall firsthand, here are a few practical tips to ensure a memorable visit:

1. Best Time to Visit:
While Pozo de los Humos is breathtaking year-round, autumn and spring are particularly spectacular due to the increased water flow from seasonal rains, enhancing the waterfall’s mist and vapour effects.

2. Hiking Essentials:
Comfortable hiking shoes, ample water, and weather-appropriate clothing are essential for an enjoyable trek to the viewpoints. The trails, although well-marked, require a moderate level of fitness.

3. Respect Nature:
Maintaining the pristine beauty of Pozo de los Humos is crucial. Ensure you follow the 'leave no trace' principles, taking care to carry away all rubbish and not disturbing the flora and fauna.

4. Explore Beyond the Falls:
Take time to explore the Parque Natural de los Arribes del Duero beyond the waterfall. The park is rich with diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes, and additional hiking opportunities.

5. Historical Exploration:
Don’t miss the chance to visit the Palla Rubia Cave. The historical and cultural significance of the ancient cave paintings will enrich your understanding of this wonderful area.

6. Local Delicacies:
Complement your natural explorations with a taste of local cuisine. The surrounding villages offer a delightful array of traditional dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.

In conclusion, Pozo de los Humos is much more than just a waterfall—it's a natural wonder that embodies the essence of rural Spain’s unspoiled beauty and ecological richness. Whether you're an avid hiker, a history buff, or simply someone who appreciates natural beauty, this destination in Salamanca promises an unforgettable adventure. So pack your hiking boots, your sense of wonder, and prepare to be mesmerised by the breathtaking splendour of Pozo de los Humos, Spain’s most beautiful waterfall.

Galicia is water, land, wind… Galicia is feeling, passion, joy… Galicia is art, history, legend… It’s everything that makes you dream and marvel…  Galicia is a land you’ll begin to discover little by little, step by step… Here are 10 places you mustn't miss, in no particular order:

1. Ribeira Sacra

The Ribeira Sacra, home to the largest concentration of Romanesque churches and monasteries in Europe. The Ribeira Sacra is a district marked by the River Miño and River Sil, which have shaped its spectacular landscape as they wind their way through the mountains. When this is combined with the faith and spirituality that can still be felt in the numerous monasteries dotted throughout the area, it means that this corner of Galicia cannot fail to appeal to all of your senses.

To mention the Ribeira Sacra is of course to mention wine, something that becomes obvious as soon as you set foot in the district: one of the most characteristic features of its landscape is the famous “socalcos”, the steeply terraced vineyards that run down the hillsides. And whilst you’re there, don’t miss the opportunity to taste some of the fantastic local wines, the product of one of the five Denomination of Origin wine-growing areas in Galicia, to which the district gives its name.

2. City walls of Lugo

The walls of Lugo are the best-preserved example of Roman military fortifications anywhere in the world. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the walls are an outstanding example of a way of building that exemplifies a variety of significant periods in the history of mankind.

From their Roman origins, through the tumultuous period of the Middle Ages and down to the ground-breaking and revolutionary 19th century, they constitute a unique monument that displays the different facets of the way in which the city of Lugo, in itself a conservation area of major importance, has evolved from the original Roman settlement of Lucus Augusti.

3.  Serra da Capelada

Serra da Capelada boasts some of the tallest cliffs in Europe.
Their highest point is Vixía Herbeira, 620 metres above sea level. From this vantage point, you can appreciate the full grandeur and size of these cliffs, second only in height to the sides of the Norwegian fjords, which plunge almost vertically down to the sea, at an angle of over 80º

The views from here are absolutely spectacular: a wonderful panorama of the mighty Atlantic Ocean and the rugged coastline on either side of Santo André are without a doubt some of the best to be found anywhere along the whole of the coast of Europe.

4. The Ferrol of the Age of Enlightenment

Although Ferrol was originally a town with a strong fishing tradition, during the 16th century its port started to become home to the ships of the Spanish Royal Navy. Subsequently, the monarchs Philip V, Ferdinand VI and Charles III were to be the driving force behind the construction of this magnificent complex, making the city the principal military base in Northwest Spain and the largest naval base of its day in Europe. On the inside, which can only be visited with prior permission, you will find the Sala de Armas (Armoury), until recently a training barracks and now residential quarters for Spanish Navy Marines deployed in Ferrol. You can also visit the Museo Naval (Shipbuilding Museum) and the Dique da Campá, one of the largest dry docks in the world. And you mustn’t forget Exponav, a permanent exhibition devoted to the world of shipbuilding.

5. The Tower of Hercules

In A Coruña, we can marvel at the Tower of Hercules, which dates back to Roman times and is the oldest working lighthouse in the world, the reason why it has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Farum Brigantium was built by the Roman Empire at some time between the end of the 1st century AD and the beginning of the following one. Located at the entrance to the harbour of A Coruña, this magnificent lighthouse was designed as an aid to navigation along the rugged Galician coast, a strategic point on the sea route linking the Mediterranean to northeast Europe.

6. The Way of St James

You can’t leave Galicia without having walked at least part of the Way of St James. 
The pilgrims’ route to Santiago played a fundamental role in the exchange of cultures between the Iberian Peninsula and the rest of Europe in the Middle Ages. For this reason, the Way of St James was nominated as the First European Cultural Itinerary by the Council of Europe. The so-called French Route, which has the longest tradition and is the best-known outside Spain, has also been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Starting in Roncesvalles (Navarre), it finally reaches Santiago de Compostela some 750 kilometres later. A route, therefore, which links Europe with northern Spain, passing secluded churches, bridges, cathedrals, monasteries and other such places of interest, accompanied by a permanent backcloth of greenery.

7. Santiago de Compostela

Santiago de Compostela has been the Christian pilgrims’ destination since the 9th century. From as far afield as the Baltic or the North Sea, thousands of pilgrims came on foot to the shrine of St James in Galicia, carrying their symbolic scallop shells along all the roads leading to Santiago, veritable paths of faith. To this we must add the fact that during the Romanesque and Baroque periods the shrine at Santiago de Compostela had a decisive influence on the evolution of architecture not just in Galicia, but throughout the whole of the north of the Iberian Peninsula

8. Cape Finisterre

Cape Finisterre, the destination of those pilgrims who, after visiting the St James’ tomb, continued their way along the route marked out for them overhead by the Milky Way until they could go no further. 

Finisterre was considered during the period of Classical Antiquity to be the end of the known world. In fact, its geographical location and impressive sunsets led Decimus Junius Brutus (the Roman general who conquered Galicia) to believe that this was indeed the place where the sun died at dusk. The area surrounding this headland has been considered a magical place since the earliest times, and legend has it that the Phoenicians set up an altar, the Ara Solis, at which they worshipped the sun. So why not take time to discover this corner of our coast, where the magic of the place will guide your footsteps.

9. The Cíes Islands

The Cíes Islands, one of the archipelagos that together with the islands of Ons, Sálvora and Cortegada make up the Galician Atlantic Islands Maritime-Terrestrial National Park.

Their wealth of plant and animal life, combined with spectacular landscapes, make these islands a major and valuable cultural and environmental asset.

Cíes Islands is nature in its purest state. The boat trip from either Vigo, Cangas or Baiona Baiona, all of which have scheduled catamaran sailings to the archipelago in high season, enables us to admire their imposing presence at the mouth of the Ría de Vigo. 

10. Santa Tegra

A Guarda is home to the Celtic hill fort and village of Santa Tegra, from where you’ll be able to enjoy “the best panoramic view of a Celtic hill fort in two countries“. Naturally enough, the views from here are unrivalled: your horizon is bounded only by Galicia, with the fishing town of A Guarda at its head, the mighty Atlantic Ocean and the neighbouring Portuguese coastline.

The view is even more impressive if we travel backwards in time: the inhabitants of this hill fort and village could enjoy it from their very dwellings. However, the site of this settlement wasn’t chosen for its views, but for more mundane reasons such as strategy and security, because from here they could monitor and control the sea traffic and the whole of the mouth of the River Miño.

Spain has one of the most varied landscapes in Europe, if not the most. It is peppered with spectacular geological wonders, many of which have been included in the UNESCO European Geopark Network. All landscapes included in this register must be of scientific, esthetic or educational significance. Of course, there are many more geological 'maravillas' but here are a few that need to be contemplated...

1. Sobrarbe, in the Aragonese province of Huesca, is home to some of the most striking landscapes in the entire Pyrenees, from the calcareous summits of Treserols to the canyons of Ordesa and Añisclo (pictured), the valleys of Pineta and Escuaín, the Posets massif, the valley of Chistau and the Sierra de Guara mountains. http://www.geoparquepirineos.com 

2. Dating from 10 million years ago, the formations at Cabo de Gata on the Almería coast are one of the largest magma-derived mountains in Europe. Old lava flows, volcanic domes, craters and fossilized beaches make up a landscape that, despite looking like a semi-desert, is home to a variety of ecosystems, including more than 1,000 endemic plant species and some of Spain’s most beautiful beaches. http://www.degata.com

3. Around 36 million years ago, Catalonia’s interior was covered by a sea that disappeared as a result of the great folding process that gave birth to the Pyrenees. Among the products of that geological process are the Toll and Salnitre caves, the serrated peaks of Montserrat and the Catalan potassium basin. http://www.geoparc.cat/es

4. The collection of limestone massifs extending southeast of Córdoba province, along the border with Jaén and Granada, show the effect of water over the course of aeons. This is a chaotic landscape filled with pits and sinkholes, karst formations such as the limestone pavement of Los Lanchares, the Bailón River Canyon and the Bat Cave, near Zuheros. The area is also known for its ammonite fossils – the remains of cephalopods that ruled the seas during the Jurassic and Cretaceous periods. http://www.andalucia.org

5. Fossils trapped for over 50 million years in the pastry-puff rock formation – technically known as flysch – along a 13-kilometre stretch of land on the western coast of Gipuzkoa have earned this place a spot in the European Geoparks Networks. Like a book written in stone, each stratum of flysch contains a 60-million-year-old chapter in the history of the Earth, from the Upper Cretaceous period (around 100 million years ago) to the Eocene (40 million years ago). http://www.geoparkea.com

6. Extremadura conceals unexpected landscapes, such as the one to be found at the Villuercas-Ibores-Jara geopark in Cáceres, where deciduous forests sit alongside olive groves, holm oak and fields of rockroses. It is a rocky place of jagged-peaked mountains that rise above the oak forests like dinosaur backbones. And beneath it lies a striking world of karst formations inside the cave of Castañar de Ibor, which was declared a natural monument in 1997 thanks to its eccentric calcite stalactites, arboreal shapes and delicate aragonite “flowers.”  http://www.geoparquevilluercas.es

7. The eruption of an underwater volcano off the Canary island of El Hierro in 2011 is just the latest chapter of an epic geological journey that began 100 million years ago when the seabed opened up and released the magma that formed the isle. The smallest and wildest island in the archipelago, its 278 square kilometres contain over 500 volcanic cones and nearly 70 lava-made caves such as Don Justo, whose galleries span over six kilometres.  http://geoparqueelhierro.es

8. From the heights of Gúdar down to the border with Lower Aragón, the Guadalope River crosses a network of mountains, peaks and canyons that were once home to the Sea of Tethys and monsters such as the Elasmosaurus. Its tracks, and those of other dinosaurs from the Jurassic and Cretaceous eras, are on display at nearly 70 paleontology sites inside the El Maestrazgo geopark. http://www.geoparquemaestrazgo.com

Visited by more than 83 million tourists in 2019, Spain can be proud of having some of the most beautiful cathedrals in the world, fifteen cities that are recognised as World Heritage Sites by the UN and 52 Biosphere Reserves declared by UNESCO. In addition, Spain has museums that house world-famous works of art, historical buildings, and unique constructions. Among all of them are some of the most visited monuments in Spain. Here is a list of the top 11...

11  Royal Palace (Madrid)

Destroyed by fire in 1734, Felipe V ordered the reconstruction of the Royal Palace to the extended form it shows today, although today it is no longer the residence of the Monarchy, its more than 3,000 rooms serve daily as a museum and, on special occasions, as a venue for events and receptions for the Head of State.

The Royal Palace of Madrid received 1,547,967 visitors in 2019.

10 Reina Sofía National Art Center Museum (Madrid)

Specialising in contemporary and 20th-century works of art, the Reina Sofía Museum exhibits abundant and well-known works by Picasso, Dalí or Miró along with other representatives of Cubism, Surrealism and other pictorial trends.

The MNCARS complex received a total of 4,425,699 visitors in 2019. Of these, the main headquarters, the Reina Sofía Museum, received 1,714,409 visitors, the Crystal Palace 1,994,979 and the Velázquez Palace 716,671 (the latter two in the Retiro Park).

9 Camp Nou (Barcelona)

The Soccer Stadium of one of the most famous teams in the world is also one of the most visited spots in Spain. A tour of the Camp Nou covers the most significant corners, such as the stands, the pitch, the visiting team's dressing room, the dressing room tunnel, the press room, the mixed zone, the benches and much more.

In 2018 the Camp Nou Experience had 1,900,000 visitors.

8 Reales Alcázares (Seville)

With architectural elements from the High Middle Ages, the Islamic world, Mudejar, Gothic, Renaissance, Mannerist and Baroque, this set of buildings that includes a remarkable garden in addition to being the oldest Royal Palace in Europe is so impressive that it has been the scene of films and TV series such as Lawrence of Arabia (1962), 1492: the conquest of paradise (1992), The Kingdom of Heaven (2004) or Game of Thrones (5th and 6th season).

The Reales Alcázares de Sevilla received 2,067,016 visitors in 2019

7 Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba (Córdoba)

Re-Christianised, so to speak, with the construction of a basilica consecrated as a Cathedral after the Christian reconquest of the Andalusian city, the Mosque of Córdoba is a beautiful example of Muslim art in the Peninsula, surpassed perhaps only by the Alhambra in Granada.

The Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba received 2,079,160 visitors in 2019

6 Cathedral of Seville 

The Cathedral of Seville is the largest Gothic temple in the world, it is a World Heritage Site and has an attached bell tower that was originally the minaret of the old mosque and is today the famous tower known as La Giralda.

2,298,702 visitors passed through the Seville Cathedral in 2019

5 The Alhambra (Granada)

Alhambra, palace and fortress of the Moorish monarchs of Granada, Spain. The name Alhambra, signifying in Arabic “the red,” is probably derived from the reddish colour of the tapia (rammed earth) of which the outer walls were built. Constructed on a plateau that overlooks the city of Granada, the Alhambra was built chiefly between 1238 and 1358, in the reigns of Ibn al-Aḥmar, founder of the Naṣrid dynasty, and his successors. 

2,766,887 people passed through the Alhambra in Granada in 2018 (curiously, 3,387 exceeded the limit of 2,763,500 annual visitors established by a regulation of the Board of the Alhambra and the Generalife in 2016)

4  City of Arts and Sciences (Valencia)

With such a futuristic appearance that it has even served as a set for the “Westworld” series, the City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia is a snowy set of buildings with stylized shapes and biological inspiration. The largest aquarium in Europe, the largest exhibition hall in Spain or the interactive exhibitions of the Science Museum and the world-leading Opera house are some of the attractions that will get you walking through its doors.

The City of Arts and Sciences was visited by 2,876,524 people in 2019

3 Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela (Santiago de Compostela)

At the end of the Camino de Santiago, the ritual of entering the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela looking for the tomb of the Apostle Santiago is the wish of the thousands of people who make a pilgrimage there every year and who, in addition, enjoy visiting a colossal building with beautifully detailed facades such as the Obradoiro or the Platerías.

The Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela does not have an access control system, as it is free, but it is estimated that between 3 and 3 and a half million people visited it in 2015, given that that same year 262,516 pilgrims arrived in the city (rising to 301,000 in 2017, the same year that overnight stays in Santiago were around 1.5 million) the figure of 3 million visits is not unreasonable.

2  Prado Museum (Madrid)

The most important art gallery in Spain, the Prado Museum, houses great works such as "Las Meninas" (Velázquez), "The Garden of Delights" (El Bosco), "The executions of May 3" (Goya) as well as one of the best collections of Flemish art, to name just a few of the more than 35,000 works in the museum's collection.
The Prado Museum received 3,203,417 visitors in 2019

1  Basilica of the Sagrada Familia (Barcelona)

It may be curious that the most visited monument in Spain has been under construction for almost a century and a half, but the cranes and scaffolding don't scare away the visitors. What will be the highest Christian church in the world was designed by the great Gaudí at the end of the 19th century and exudes his peculiar style from the moment you first step inside to the top of any of its 8 towers.

The Basilica of the Sagrada Familia received 4.5 million visitors in 2018.

Everyone in the wine community will be celebrating their local wine festivals this month and next, some large and some small, but all celebrating "la vindimia": the grape harvest. Take note of the one near you and pay a visit this year if you are still in time...!

You don't have to travel to Florence to suffer from Stendhal syndrome. Spain also boasts an extensive art collection, envied the world over. Just visiting one of the ten art centres in this top ten would be enough. You might not experience dizziness, palpitations and trembling, as French writer Stendhal did on his visit to the Italian city, but you will without a doubt leave with another perspective on art. Here are Spain's ten best museums. Not in any particular order.....

CaixaForum, Barcelona

It represents a trend in museums that has spread throughout Spain in recent years, where art galleries combine exhibitions with all kinds of activities, such as workshops, conferences, projections, etc. The space is managed by La Caixa through the bank's Obra Social foundation, but the programming isn't its only appeal. It's located in a very remarkable Modernista building, the old Casaramona factory designed by famous Catalan architect Josep Puig i Cadafalch.

Reina Sofia Art Centre, Madrid

It's one of Madrid's large museums and full of art both inside and out. It's dedicated exclusively to modern and contemporary art and walking through its rooms you can see one of the key works of Spanish art: Guernica, by Pablo Picasso. Before contemplating this marvellous piece, you should take a moment to enjoy the surroundings. The museum is comprised of two buildings: the first dates from the 16th century and used to be the old San Carlos hospital; the second was built in 2001 and is the work of prestigious architect Jean Nouvel.

The Guggenheim, Bilbao

Few museums can claim to have triggered a city's transformation, but that's exactly what the Guggenheim did. In fact, Bilbao is now one of Spain's most popular tourist destinations. Its avant garde architecture, the work of Frank O. Gehry, will undoubtedly impress you with its curvilinear forms and extraordinary play of titanium volumes, now a symbol of Bilbao. You mustn't miss the work 'The Matter of Time' by Richard Serra which is part of the permanent exhibition, where you will find yourself immersed in seven impressive sculptures.

Valencia Modern Art Institute - IVAM, Valencia

If you're an art lover and you're going to Valencia, as well as visiting the City of Arts and Sciences, another must-see is IVAM. This gallery is dedicated to modern and contemporary art. It has two different spaces: the Julio González Centre, dedicated to the museum collection and temporary exhibitions; and the Sala de la Muralla, located in the building's basement, with the preserved remains of the city's mediaeval fortifications. The activity programme includes courses, workshops and even concerts.

La Casa Encendida, Madrid

This is a social and cultural centre with some of Madrid's most experimental artistic expressions and an outstanding programme of educational activities, conferences and debates. The gallery is managed by the Obra Social Caja Madrid foundation and pursues four lines of action: Solidarity, Environment, Culture and Education. After participating in one of the activities on offer, there's nothing better than taking a walk around the rooftop garden and enjoying the great views.

Museu d'Art Contemporani de Barcelona - MACBA, Barcelona

While it didn't transform the city like the Guggenheim in Bilbao, it did become one of the motors of change in the renovation of the neighbourhood of El Raval, which went from being a run-down area to one of Barcelona's most modern. The building by Richar Meier is noteworthy for its combination of straight lines and curves, the large interior spaces and the harnessing of natural light. The exhibition and event spaces include the Capella MACBA annex, formerly the Los Angeles convent church. The museum focuses on art from the second half of the 20th century.

Dalí Theatre-Museum, Figueres, Girona

The museum took over the former Figueras municipal theatre (19th century) and clearly reflects the artist's personality and work. Dalí himself supervised the renovation works on the building, which is recognisable for its red and gold paint job and the large white eggs that crown it.  Although you can visit throughout the year, it's worth going in August when they open at night. From 10 until 1 in the morning you can contemplate the artist's work while having a glass of the Spanish sparkling wine cava.

Picasso Museum, Malaga

The fascinating work of the artist from Malaga and the beauty of the Buenavista Palace make this museum a unique place to enjoy art and culture. The gallery's 155 works range from his first academic studies to his personal vision of classicism; from the superimposed planes of cubism to his incursion into ceramics; from his interpretation of the great masters to his last paintings in the seventies. Temporary exhibitions, educational and cultural activities, the library and a specialised bookshop complete a suggestive proposal.

Thyssen – Bornemisza Museum, Madrid

Located on the famous Paseo del Prado and forming part of what is known as Madrid's Art Triangle, the museum is in the beautiful Duque de Villahermoso Palace, remodelled by the prestigious architect Rafael Moneo. It houses what is without a doubt one of the most important private art collections in the world, with works from the 13th to 20th centuries. The museum proves particularly didactic due to its size and the way the works are displayed according to chronological, thematic and stylistic criteria. 

The Prado Museum

This is the king of Spanish museums, an international authority due to the fact it possesses the most complete collection of 11th to 18th-century Spanish painting. You will need several hours to go through the rooms displaying the works of the great masters such as El Greco, Goya, Rubens and Rembrandt.  Here you can see one of the most famous Spanish paintings of all time: Las Meninas, by Velázquez. Architecture lovers will also enjoy visiting the museum's new wing, an extension designed by the architect Rafael Moneo.