The first settlers to the Iberian Peninsula arrived over 35, 000 years ago, establishing themselves throughout various areas in Spain. These settlers included the Carthaginians, the Greeks and the Phoenicians who set up home throughout the country. The Roman Republic took hold of Spain around 200 BC, but lost control to the Visigoths, who in turn lost to the North Africans. Muslim states were created following this period in a period known as the Al-Andalus. This era lasted approximately 750 troubled years, with the Christian re-conquest occurring at the same time. The Reconquista culminated in 1492 with their victory at Granada, when the last Muslim ruler surrendered to the Christians. Christian kingdoms flourished during the following years, with the two largest merging to form the Kingdom of Spain.

During the years of the Spanish Empire, the country flourished and was one of the leading explorers of the New World. The Spanish opened up new trade routes to the Americas, and acquired large areas of land in both the North and South Americas. Arts and literature thrived, and the Spanish Empire prospered for several centuries. The only thing that marred this period was the Inquisition and the conduct towards the natives of the Americas.

In the years that followed, the Spanish Empire grew in stature and size, and eventually became involved in several continental European wars. Some of the wars resulted in heavy losses, whereas others resulted in added gains. Wars against France and England continued, and slowly the Empire lost its strength. The Spanish- American War in 1898 saw Spain forced to hand back much of its overseas empire to the Americas, and by the end of the nineteenth century Spain had lost much of its Empire.

A troubled period followed, with political instability fracturing the countries remaining domination. A civil war ensued and lasted for three years between 1936 and 1939 devastating the country further. A national dictatorship led by Francisco Franco was founded which thereby ended the war. Franco took measures to rebuild the country, and the economy grew rapidly during his reign.  He wanted Spain to form a national identity, which he achieved by repressing much of the country’s cultural heritage. The dictatorship would forbid certain fiestas and holidays, and promote others in their goal to unite the country. After Franco’s demise in 1975, the Bourbon monarchy resumed and the fiestas once again flourished.

Modern Spain is alive with different regional fiestas which are held weekly throughout the year. The country is a blend of the modern mixed with the contemporary, and the unique cultural heritage can be enjoyed throughout the region. Remembrances of the long and wide-spread history are still visible amidst the new and united country.

Madrid is a lively cultural city, full of historical sites and heritage. Archaeological and architectural sites and buildings are found throughout the city, dating back for several hundred years. Several UNESCO world heritage sites are located in and around the municipality, and attracts visitors from all over the world. One of the oldest churches in Madrid is the San Nicolas de los Servitas which was built in the fifteenth century. This spectacular church houses the Mudejar Mosque which dates back to the twelfth century. Madrid is overflowing with stunning architecture dating back from different eras of the capital’s history. The Royal Palace and the Segovia Bridge are both exemplary forms of the kinds of architecture found around the city. Many museums can be found in all areas of the town, of which the El Prado is the most well-known. El Prado is home to more than 18,000 works of art, including famous sculptures and paintings. The actual building dates back to 1875 and is an exceptional form of art in itself.

Although Madrid is home to many historical buildings, the city itself is very modern and contemporary. People from all over the world come to visit the capital adding to the lively atmosphere. Restaurants, cafes and bars are found throughout the metropolis, serving both traditional and international fare. Shopping centres and malls are progressive, and offer people a choice between the more conventional goods and the latest fashions. Night life is varied, and visitors can enjoy sophisticated operas or the more contemporary theatre. Discotheques and night clubs can be found in many areas of the town.

Madrid boasts a temperate climate, with hot summers and cold winters. Temperatures can drop to zero degrees during the winter months, and snow usually occurs a couple of times a year. Summers are much hotter, with high temperatures reaching 40C during the day. Rainfall is low in this area, with most occurring in the autumn and spring.

Madrid is a stimulating international city; displaying a spirited and lively environment. It is home to many exceptional historical centres and sites, as well as to a modern and running commercial centre. The uniqueness of this city is due to the extraordinary blend of both contemporary and modern influences and heritage.

The Tomatina Festival pays homage to Bunol’s patron saint, Luis Bertran and the ‘Mother God of the Defenceless’, a designation given to the Virgin Mary. La Tomatina is believed to have originated from a random fight that erupted in 1945 between some of the local boys in the town. Being in the market, the closest thing at hand for one of the lads was a tomato, which was then thrown, initiating a large food fight in the square. Residents in the town tried to start a food fight the following year on the same day, but were stopped by the local constabulary. Interest in the large scale food fight grew over the years, and became officially recognised in 1959.  During the reign of dictator Fransisco Franco the holiday was banned, but it soon sprang up again after his death in 1975 and has been growing in popularity ever since. The one day fiesta has grown so much in recent years that the holiday now takes place over an entire seven days with the tomato fight as the culmination at the end of the week.

During La Tomatina, the town of Bunol is alive with festivities and celebrations. The streets are filled with food and drink stalls, and revellers enjoy music and dance. Colourful parades and processions march down the streets, and the residents dress up in traditional costumes. Fireworks light up the night sky and street performers wander the streets. The entire town of Bunol becomes one big celebration during the Tomato Festival, with visitors and locals enjoying the fun.

The batalla or battle takes place on the Wednesday at the end of the week long celebration. It begins with a race up a slippery pole to retrieve a ham joint which sits on the top. The pole is almost two stories high and is well greased prior to the contest, making it an amusing site to behold. The ham being cut down from the pole is the signal for the Tomato battle to begin. Trucks crammed with tomatoes drive down the town and throw over-ripe tomatoes on the watchers. The streets turn into a river of red tomato juice with over one hundred metric tons of fruit thrown into the streets.

The flamenco can tell all imaginable stories from tragedy to comedy, and love to politics using song, dance and music to bring the story alive. There is little evidence left of the development history of this art form, although it is believed to have begun in the lower levels of Andalusian society a few hundred years ago. This is one of several reasons that there is a distinct lack of historical evidence of the origins of this musical genre, as it was not recognised amongst the more prestigious people of this time. Many of the classes were illiterate, so the music and songs were passed on orally, eliminating any written history from being recorded. Many of the groups involved in the beginning of the flamenco culture were later persecuted, including the gypsies, the Jews and the Moors, taking any existing evidence with them at the time.

Flamenco music made a comeback in the late eighteenth century in a time often referred to as the Golden Age of Flamenco. Singing and dancing performances started growing in popularity in the cities of Seville and Malaga and quickly spread throughout the province of Andalusia. As the movement grew, so did the different styles of flamenco; as local dance movements and traditions influenced the original art form.

Many people mistakenly think of flamenco as being a form of dance, although it originally started as a form of singing to tell a story. Dance was later added to express the songs with movement to the music. The entire art form is a complex blend of music, dance and song and to the untrained eye may look wild and ardent. The sophisticated footwork and complex rhythms of music combine together to make flamenco the passionate art form that it is today.

Malaga city lies at the base of the Axarquia Hills, and is sheltered by the Montes de Malaga to the north. These mountains lie just five kilometres from the city, and offer unhindered views of the Mediterranean Sea. Two major rivers run through the province, with the capital lying at the mouth of the Guadalhorce. The province is only 7276 square kilometres, and is the smallest in Andalusia.

Malaga has a very diverse landscape and geography which continues to attract nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With a long coastline on offer; water sports are prevalent, including sailing, swimming, scuba diving and snorkelling, jet skiing and boating. Mountain climbing, rock climbing and hang-gliding are popular in the surrounding mountains, and can be done throughout the year. Malaga also offers outdoor activities such as golf, potholing, horseback riding, trekking and cycling, so there is something to appeal to everyone. There are over 23 protected areas in the province, with a varied animal and plant life.

The surrounding Mediterranean Sea and the Malaga Mountains provide the city with protection against cold winds and rain. Mild temperatures are seen throughout the year, with the coldest temperatures occurring during January and February. Daytime temperatures are often around a pleasant 16 C, with nights reaching cools of 9 C. Summer months are much warmer, with mid-day temperatures of approximately 29 C and nights cooling down to a warm 22C. It seldom rains in the summer, with the highest amount of rainfall occurring in December and January.

Malaga is also well known for its rich history and cultural heritage. One of the most famous people to be born in Malaga was Pablo Picasso, and the local museum features more than 200 pieces of his work. Picasso is featured throughout the city, and many of the old archaeological and architectural buildings and sites appear on tourist routes in honour of the artist. The Church of St. James is where Picasso was baptised and was built in the fifteenth century. Several buildings in the city date back to the middle Ages, and inspired the artist as a youth.

Malaga is one of the most popular places in Spain for many reasons. The beautiful nature and surroundings attract people looking for both adventure and relaxation. Traditional Spanish buildings and sites are found throughout the city, and the mix between culture and modern life is resonant.

The Romeria Del Rocio begins with a vibrant and exciting festival in the city of Almonte where people from all over Spain join to commemorate the Virgin Mary. The pilgrimage begins a few days later, with thousands of people walking through the Andalusia countryside to the mouth of the Guadalquivir River. Colourful processions from all the surrounding towns and villages are a site to behold, with the locals dressed up in their traditional garb and costumes. Many of the women wear gorgeous, colourful flamenco dresses, and the men look well-groomed in their traditional wide-brimmed bolero hats and short-cropped jackets. Horse drawn carriages and carts dominate the processions, with motor vehicles and cars banned from the pilgrimage.

The Romeria Del Rocio has been celebrated in Andalusia for over eight hundred years, ever since a local hunter found her statue in the village of Villamanrique in the fifteenth century. According to local legend, the statue was found in a tree trunk in Donana Park and is believed to have the ability to cure all kinds of disease and disorders. People pray to the Virgin Mary to help them with their ailments, or to alleviate the suffering of their friends and family.

A shrine to the Virgen has been placed in the marshes of the El Rocio fields where the statue was found several hundred years ago. The Romeros or travellers join together to shout their blessings to the Virgen. “Long Live the Queen of the Marshes” is taken up by all the pilgrims and can be heard for miles around. The festivities begin in full sing with music and dancing abound. Stalls and stands are set up all over the fields serving traditional food and drink. Fireworks light up the night sky and people are in high spirits.
On the Monday after the celebrations, the Virgen Del Rocio is brought out from her resting place in the local church. Thousands of the pilgrims await their chance to touch the blessed statue and shout wishes at her as she is carried past. The festival is one of the biggest in all of Spain, and is both a vibrant and touching occurrence.

There are ten main natural regions in Spain, of which the Meseta Central is the largest. The majority of mainland Spain consists of this high plateau which is dissected by several mountain ranges.  The mean altitude of Spain is approximately 600 metres, with the highest point being 3719 metres (Pico de Teide in Tenerife). Other regions on the peninsula include the  Cordillera Cantabrica, the Iberico region, the Penibetico region, the Pyrenees,  the Andalusia plain, the Ebro Basin, the coastal plains, the Balearic Islands and the Canaries. Spain’s varied landscape consists of everything from mountains, beaches, plateaus, river valleys to sun-baked deserts.

Spain’s diverse geography plays a role in the overall climate of the country which is typically classified as Mediterranean. Moderate winters and warm summers are common around the southern coastal areas and the central areas of Spain. The Northern Atlantic coast is slightly colder, and the mountainous areas of Spain have a more alpine climate with snow common in the winters.

The capital of Spain is Madrid, which is a vibrant city rich with history and cultural heritage. Most provinces in Spain have their own capital, and different traditions are noticed throughout. Spanish is the national language, although variations can be noticed in the mother tongue when travelling through the countryside. The pre-dominant religion in the country is Roman Catholic, although smaller groups are found throughout.

Spain is both a modern and a traditional country, appealing to people from all over the world. It is a member of the European Union, and adopted the euro as their primary currency several years ago. Spain has the eight largest economy in the world, and has been attracting investors and companies from many of the European countries. The southern coast of Spain has become an increasingly popular place for both tourists and investors looking at buying a second home. The diverse landscapes, activities, traditions, cuisine and real estate options that the country has to offer have made it the attractive place that it is today.

If one were to look down at Spain from above, the country would be lit up by bonfires throughout the night during the San Juan Fiesta. Bonfires are prepared in the afternoon and are left to burn in the night darkness honouring the light of the summer. Jumping over a bonfire three times during the fiesta will cleanse the soul of a person according to old tradition, and still takes place throughout the country. Perfumed water made of seven different plants is also prepared to cleanse people and this is prepared by the women according to custom.

The San Juan fiesta is celebrated all over Spain, with even more festivities taking place along the extensive coastline. With bonfires lighting the beaches, local residents jump into the sea as the clock strikes midnight to wash away evil and be granted ever lasting beauty. In some of the coastal towns, residents dance on the beach around the bonfires before going in for a midnight dip. In other areas, large cardboard statues are built which are then burned together with the bonfires. These paper statues are typically built weeks in advance and are judged for their creativity and uniqueness. In Valencia the best statues are kept in the local museum to be visited throughout the year.

The Fiesta de San Juan is a festive occasion that can be enjoyed by both visitors and residents. Food and drink are aplenty, and stalls line up in the streets selling their traditional recipes and treats. Dance shows and firework competitions are popular, as are fairs and parades. The streets are alive with music and dance throughout the fiesta week, and many activities are on offer. The night sky is lit up with bonfires, fireworks and the burning of the gigantic statues in honour of light and summer.

Barcelona is an important historical centre of Spain, with many of its old buildings and architecture still intact from its colourful past. It has a long and varied history having been founded in the second century B.C. by the Romans. Many sites from the early Roman settlement still remain dotted around the city, and artefacts from various eras of Barcelona’s history can be found in the many museums in and around town.

The old Gothic Quarter remains virtually intact and is home to many medieval buildings. Small cobblestone roads give rise to the feeling of being transported back in time where cars and traffic no longer exist.
Barcelona lies in a very privileged position along the coast, and boasts over four kilometres of beautiful beaches.

Due to the mild Mediterranean climate, these beaches are frequented throughout the year by both locals and visitors. Barcelona has a typically Mediterranean climate, with warm summers and mild winters. Temperatures drop to a pleasant 10 C in the winter months and reach a hot 30 C in the summer. Long coastal walks and paths are common in Barcelona, enabling residents and visitors to enjoy a leisurely stroll while enjoying the breathtaking views of the sea.

Barcelona is cultural city, with the modern mixing with the old. Visitors can participate in  the busy city life, or can opt to relax along the coast. Visitors can enjoy the rich history through visiting the old part of the town or by enjoying the many museums around the city. For people more interested in the modern way of life, Barcelona offers a renowned shopping experience of both international and national shops and wares.

Two languages are spoken in the city, with Spanish and Catalan both being official. Although Catalan was suppressed during the years of dictatorship, it has flourished in recent years together with its art and culture. Since Spain’s arrival into democracy, Barcelona has seen a great revival of its cultural heritage and history, which can be enjoyed by everyone visiting this charming city. Fiestas are frequent throughout the year, as the locals celebrate their past and their new beginnings.

An hour to the north of Javea located on a dry river estuary is the striking city of Valencia. Basked in historic culture its city centre holds many ancient treasures whilst many specialty shops including a new US style mall marks the city as a thriving cosmopolitan metropolis. Spain’s largest and oldest cathedral, the extraordinary science park and oceanograifc aquarium are just a few of the vast majority of interests found in Valencia. Ancient arresting architecture met with tasteful modern attractions ensure Valencia is a must see.

Only 30min drive north from Javea located at the foot of the Montgo Mountain is the lively town of Denia. Its 20km of coastline is lined by relaxing yellow sandy beaches however a walk through the tree lined avenue of the old town will transport you back to times gone by. The old town leads to the bustling harbor where a boat can be caught to visit the island of Ibiza. Although Denia has a large expat residency with a modern shopping centre the old castle that rises against the skyline at the peak of the hill reminds visitors of the ancient cultures that once surrounded this vibrant town.

Javeas location also provides many places of interest away from the commotion of the coast. Gata De Gorgos is a delightful village found along the valley road inland of Javea. Its streets are lined with an abundance of basket wear including esparto, palm leaf, rattan and wickerwork.

Also found inland of Javea is the Jalon valley. Jalon’s famed citrus and almond trees surround the numerous small Spanish villages that are found dotted along the landscape. Jalons notorious rastro found on Saturday mornings is sometimes littered with antique treasures. Jalon valley is also famous for its superb yet very strong home made wine which can be bought at several bodegas in the villages.

If its romance you are after then look no further than the extremely pretty village of Moraira. Located to the south of Javea, Moraira can be found huddled in a gorgeous bay below the mountains. Once a small fishing village, Moraira has grown into a popular tourist centre for numerous nationalities whilst still keeping its rustic charm. Various bars and cafes overlook the beach with the sound of gently lapping water along the golden sands filling the air. The coast road that continues on to benissa offers breathtaking views of the Teulada valley. The coast road voyage lined by sandy beaches and rocky coves takes you on a stunning journey to Calpe.

Calpe has two sandy beaches with the notorious Penon de Ifach located between them. This large geographic nature reserve provides spectacular views from its peak however wearing sensible shoes are a must for the steep climb. Combine this with its fish market, harbor and numerous international seafront restaurant, Calpe has an almost seaside feel.

Located 45 min drive from Javea is Spain’s biggest holiday resort of Benidorm. When buying a property in Javea then its proximity to Benidorm almost guarantees holiday rentals. This modern lively town has an abundance of entertainment including bars, discos, comedy and dance shows.

Benidorm is also an ideal place to visit with children. Its numerous attractions include the famed Terra Mitica theme park which warrants a whole day to see and do everything. Other attractions include Mudomar, Aqualandia and the new Terra Natura. Bendiorm’s sea front promenades provide 2 sandy beaches that offer a vast variety of water entertainment. The modern town has an abundance of shops that range from named brands to small boutiques however be prepared to be astonished when you enter the winding narrow streets of the old town that portray the essence of Spanish life including various tapas bars than enable a small taste into Spanish culture.

The proximity of these diverse yet charming resorts that surrounding Javea ensures it is the ideal place to purchase a property. From the cosmopolitan bustle city of Valencia to the vastly entertaining streets of Benidorm, Javea’s location confirms it is the jewel of the Costa Blanca. The abundance of places of interest found not only to the north and south of Javea but also inland ensure that a property in Javea will have everything to offer the whole family.