Spain, officially the Kingdom of Spain, is a country in Southwestern Europe, the only European country that borders Africa. In this article, find interesting facts about Spain.
Boasts 48 UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Spain is among the best destinations in the world, and interestingly, it boasts 48 UNESCO World Heritage sites. Only two other countries, Italy and China, have more UNESCO World Heritage sites than Spain. The list includes the Archaeological Ensemble of Tárraco, Doñana National Park, Monuments of Oviedo and the Kingdom of the Asturias, Tower of Hercules, and Teide National Park – to mention just a few.
Spaniards Live Longer
Of all the OECD countries, Spain boasts the second-highest life expectancy at 83 years; only Japan beats this life expectancy rate. Interestingly, females outlive their male counterparts; on average living to 85 years compared to 79 years for males. But then, Spain has an ageing population. The United Nations projections show that by 2050, 30% of the population will be above 60. Perhaps surprisingly, Spaniards are not very religious; with only 13.6% of the entire population going to church every Sunday according to statistics.
Oldest Operational Lighthouse
Spain is home to the Tower of Hercules, also known as “Farum Brigantium”, a lighthouse that was established in the late 1st Century AD. Located at the La Coruña harbour’s entrance, it’s the oldest lighthouse that is still in operation. The Tower of Hercules also serves as Spain’s landmark.
Oldest Operational Restaurant
Spain is also home to the oldest restaurant in the world according to the Guinness World Records. Known as Restaurante Botín, it has never closed since opening its doors back in 1725. The restaurant is known for the delicious Cochinillos Asado (roast suckling pig), among other traditional Spanish foods.
There you have it folks, some interesting facts about Spain. Did you know that nudity is also legal in Spain? Yes, there are no laws regarding nudity in Spain. Another cool fact is that the Spanish national anthem, “Marcha Real”, doesn’t have lyrics; it’s just a tune!