Spain regions and provinces. The administrative center of Spain

Spain has a complex administrative division. But if you want to get to know this country better, study the map. For example, the country has as many as 50 provinces that are part of 17 autonomous regions. Spain's region names also include two autonomous cities in Africa. These are Ceuta and Melilla.

Ceuta- a small semi-enclave of Spain on the northern coast of Morocco, directly opposite Gibraltar. The enclave is separated from Morocco by the Ceuta Wall, border structures built in 2001.

Melilla-autonomous spanish city and port on mediterranean coast Africa.

There are also sovereign territories of Spain, represented by mostly uninhabited and not very interesting islands for tourists, such as the islands of Perejil and Alboran and the Peñón de Vélez de la Gomera peninsula on the Moroccan coast.

Pay attention to the cities of the regions of Spain indicated below. Each autonomous region is divided into a province, usually the main cities of the provinces coincide with them in name.

Almost the entire north of the country has a coastline along the Bay of Biscay of the Atlantic Ocean. The northern regions of Spain are represented by autonomous regions:

Galicia where you can visit historical cities, the capital - Santiago de Compostela and the largest city - Vigo.

Asturias with the most interesting cities Oviedo and Gijon.

Cantabria- this is San Vicente de la Barquera, Santillana del Mar and many others.

Basque country, whose capital is Vitoria-Gasteiz, and the most Big City- Bilbao.

Navarre- this, of course, Estella, Olite and Pamplona, ​​known for its games with bulls.

Catalonia, which can be called the pearl necklace of the country, because it contains such significant cities like, Tarragona, Lleida, Terrace, Sabadell and many others.

The central regions of Spain include:

Castile and Leon, where it is worth visiting the ancient Zamora, Leon, Palencia and other cities.

Rioja with its wine-producing town of Haro and the capital of Logroño.

Castile-La Mancha With magnificent city Toledo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Extremadura, whose historical centers, Merida, Badajoz and Cáceres, attract the attention of tourists from all over the world.

All southern regions Spain have access to the Mediterranean Sea or the North Atlantic Ocean. TO southern regions Spain belong.

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• City in Spain, in the region of Murcia, the administrative center of the province of Albacete
• Aragon (Aragon and Spanish Aragón, cat. Aragó) is a Spanish autonomous community. It is located in the north of Spain and borders on France and the autonomous communities of Castile - La Mancha, Castile and Leon, Catalonia, Rioja, Navarre and Valencia.
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In Europe, you will not find a country more interesting and diverse than Spain. It owes its diversity to the peculiarities geographical location: in the very south of Europe in the immediate vicinity of the African continent. Spain occupies 85% of the area of ​​the Iberian Peninsula. Having a large extent, the territory of Spain is divided into several climatic zones: the mild temperate north, subject to the warm influence of the Atlantic; southeast with a pronounced Mediterranean rather dry climate; sharply continental central plateau part; uniquely smooth warm and comfortable in the Canary Islands. Spain is the warmest country European continent, with the maximum number sunny days in a year. This is largely due to the mountainous terrain of the peninsula: the central plateau of the Mesete is bounded on all sides by the mountain ranges of the Pyrenees, Cantabrians, and Iberians. The only low-lying valley in the south of the country is the Andalusian.

The country has an ancient rich history, the beginning of which is attributed to the Paleolithic. The formation of cultural, ethnic and religious traditions was decisively influenced by the long conquests known as the Roman, Visigothic, and Arab periods.

The Spanish government is a constitutional monarchy. Administratively, the country is divided into 50 provinces, territorially united in 17 very different autonomous communities (+ two separate autonomous cities), which have their own parliament, legislative, linguistic features. State language the Castilian dialect of Spanish is recognized, in many regions local dialects are recognized as official. Let's take a look at the features of each region of Spain separately.

The Central Autonomous Community and the province, the center of which is the city of Madrid, at the same time the capital of Spain. The population of the region, despite its small area, exceeds 6 million. The region is located on the Central Castilian Plateau, in the northwest - the Guadarrama ranges, in the southeast - the Tagus River.

The climate in this region is Mediterranean with continental features: hot summer season and cold winters, often with sub-zero temperatures. best seasons- spring and autumn.

2. Andalusia

Andalusia is the southernmost and most beloved by tourists region of Spain, includes 8 provinces: Seville, Cordoba, Huelva, Cadiz, Almeria, Malaga, Jaen. The administrative center is Seville (see what to see in Seville). Official language- Andalusian dialect. Andalusia is the second largest and the first largest autonomy in Spain.

The relief in this region is very diverse: the most high mountains The Pyrenees, the only lowland in Spain - the Andalusian Valley, many rivers, the beaches of the Atlantic and the Mediterranean, the Tabernas desert. From the south Andalusia washes strait of Gibraltar and the Mediterranean Sea, from the west the Atlantic Ocean. The climate here is Mediterranean, sunny, hot and mostly dry.

Attracts tourists 300-kilometer strip of the best Spanish beaches Costa del Sol in Malaga ski resort Sierre Nevada, a number of protected natural parks. Sights of the historical and cultural heritage Andalusia are concentrated in cities: Seville, Malaga (Picasso Museum), Cadiz, Granada. Proximity to Africa and long-term conquests by Arabs and Romans played an exceptional role in shaping the image and traditions of this Spanish region: the ancient Roman city of Baelo Claudia, the medieval Golden Towers and minarets of Seville, the Moorish fortress in Granada, the Mesquite mosque, the palaces of Cordoba.

The southwest of Andalusia is the birthplace of flamenco, a dance that combines gypsy, Spanish and Moorish origins. Bullfighting is most common in Andalusia.

3. Aragon

Aragon is an autonomous region in the northeast region of Spain, includes 3 provinces: Zaragoza, Huesca and Tcruel. It borders on France in the north. This is one of the most beautiful regions, isolated by the ranges of the Pyrenees, Catalan, Iberian and Cantabrian mountains. Relief: snowy mountain peaks, alpine meadows, waterfalls, deep canyons, mountain lakes and rivers, green valleys and plateaus.

The climate varies from temperate continental in the highlands to Mediterranean in the Erbo Valley.

The region is in demand as an object of active recreation: mountaineering, kayaking, skiing, cycling, rafting. The main natural attractions of Aragon: Ordesa National Park, a paleontological park in Teruel.

Tourist centers are the cities of Zaragoza, Teruel and Huesca. Zaragoza is known for its balneological resorts, the Moorish Aljaferia Palace, Cathedrals, and Mudéjar architectural monuments. In the city of Huesca, it is worth visiting the dilapidated castle of Montearagon, gothic cathedral, the temple of the Romanesque period of San Pedro el Viejo, in Truel - temples and other masterpieces of the muhader style.

Aragon became an independent state in the 11th century, including Catalonia, Valencia, and then Castile. Hence the linguistic diversity: the official Castilian dialect, Catalan, Aragonese. The region is known for bullfighting festivals and colorful fairs.

4. Asturias

Northern Autonomous Community of Spain, Principality of Asturias, whose capital is Oviedo. Has its own Asturian language. Asturias played a state-forming role in the history of the country.

The relief of Asturias is made up of the Contabrian mountains, picturesque cliffs and bays of the coast of the Bay of Biscay, forming an extended northern border areas. In the bays of Costa Verde there are more than 150 beaches and many grottoes. Most high peaks are located in the eastern part. Mountain slopes covered with meadows, oak, beech and yew forests form the Peaks of Europe National Park. There are 3 more national parks, dozens of reserves and natural monuments. The region is popular with lovers of ecotourism, mountaineering and skiing.

The climate of Asturias is humid and warm on the coast and more variable, with cold winters in the mountains.

On the territory of Asturias, sites of ancient people were found. This is one of the richest regions of Spain with historical monuments. The main ones are: the palace of Santa Maria del Naranco, the church of San Miguel de Lillo, the fountain of La Foncalada of the 9th century, the cathedral of San Salvador, the museum of archeology in Oviedo, the church of the Virgin Mary in Llanos, caves with rock paintings.

5. Balearic Islands

Autonomy includes an archipelago located in the Mediterranean Sea between Iberian peninsula and Africa. Most big islands: Mallorca, Ibiza, Menorca and Formentera. The population speaks Catalan and Spanish. The capital of the archipelago is the city of Palma de Mallorca.

The islands are varied in relief: Mallorca is mountainous with a large plain in the center; Menorca is flat, with pine forests relief in the south; forested Formentera and Ibiza.

The climate in the region is warm, very sunny, Mediterranean.

The island of Menorca has been declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO, where rare species of orchids grow, unique butterflies, amphibians and birds are found.

The archipelago was inhabited about 6 thousand years ago. In the XIII century. The Balearic Islands were annexed to Aragon, in the 18th century they became part of the Spanish kingdom.

The most important industry is resort tourism, which has gained popularity due to the peculiarities of the climate, which allows year-round recreation. The most famous resorts in Europe are located in Ibiza and Mallorca.

Monuments of history and architecture: La Seu Cathedral and Royal Palace Marivent in Palma de Mallorca, Bellver Castle, La Lonja, modern art museum, temples from different periods and caves.

6. Basque Country

It is the most distinctive with wide autonomy region of Spain in the northeast of the country. Has a unique Basque language. The autonomous region unites the provinces: Biscay, Gipuzkoa, Alava. The capital is Vitoria.

The complex terrain includes the sandy coast of the Bay of Biscay, indented by cliffs and bays, and two chains of the Basque Mountains, dividing the territory into parts: the flat Alava, the mountainous Biscay and Gipuzkoa.

The valleys of the northern part of the region and Ayala (Alava) are referred to as "Green Spain" humid and moderately warm. The central part is characterized by a dry continental Mediterranean climate.

In the Basque Country, such types of tourism are very popular: hiking eco-tourism, rural, mountain, resort on the beaches of San Sebastian, cycling. The region has 8 reserves, especially famous: Urikola, Urdabay Mouth, Laguna Laguardia.

The culture and history of this region is closely connected with France. Historians speak of 30 thousand years of history settlement of this ancient land, and the Basques are direct descendants of prehistoric tribes.

The main attractions in the Basque Country: the Guggenheim Museum of Modern Art, the Old and New Cathedral of the Virgin Mary, the Church of St. Peter St. Michael, the Basilica of San Prudencio, the Dominican monastery, the Basque Museum, fine arts. Are unique thematic museums: gastronomic, playing cards, sacred art, oceanography.

Eastern region of Spain - a narrow coastal strip mediterranean sea. It unites the provinces of Valencia, Alicente and Castellon, the capital is the city of Valencia (read more about). The language is Spanish and Valencian. The inland area is mountainous, especially high in Valencia and Castellón. On the coast there is a swampy valley with fertile soils in places, dunes turned into gardens.

Valencia is located in 3 climatic zones: coastal with a Mediterranean climate; in the adjacent uplands the climate is continental; on the plain to the south - Mediterranean semi-desert.

The landscape and climate contributed to the formation of unique ecosystems on which protected areas have been created: marine reserve the uninhabited island of Columbretes, the Albufera nature reserve and the Sierra Calderona mountains.

Valencia is world famous famous beaches: Costa Blanca, Costa Azahar, Costa Valencia. The region is rich in attractions, the main of which are the Serranos and Kuart towers, the bullfighting museum, Museum of Local Lore, Ethnological Museum, Museum of Fine Arts, Cathedral, City of Arts and Sciences, Silk Exchange, Museum of Ceramics, Santa Barbara Castle, San Fernando Castle.

8. Galicia

Galicia is the most northwestern region of Spain, called the edge of the world by the ancient Romans. Through it passed the Way of St. Iago - the path of pilgrims. The west of Galicia is washed by the Atlantic Ocean, the north - Bay of Biscay. Galicia includes 4 provinces: Lugo, Orengue, La Coruña, Pontevedra and several islands. Santiago de Compostela is the center of the region. Galician and Spanish are the official languages.

The relief of the region is diverse: rugged coastline with capes, estuaries and fjords, many rivers, low mountains, forests. Island territories are included in the National Park Atlantic Islands Galicia. Sandy beaches form resort area Costa del Morisco.

The area is divided into climatic zones: remote from the coast with a Mediterranean climate, areas with a mild continental and coast with a subtropical climate. Palm trees, orchids, imported eucalyptus grow in the subtropics. Region has 6 national parks and a number of protected areas.

Ancient Celtic settlements date back to the 3rd-5th centuries. The Castro culture left a mark in the form of fortress towers. Galicia became a separate state during Roman rule. All historical eras are reflected in architecture, culture and traditions. Here you can see the remains of ancient fortresses, buildings of the ancient Roman and Romanesque eras, Christian and Muslim churches. The main attractions in the region: the Cathedral in the capital, the fortress in Lugo, the Roman lighthouse and bridge, the historical centers of the capital and Ponteveder.

9. Canary Islands

Canary Islands It is the most remote autonomous community in Spain. The archipelago, which is part of Micronesia, consists of 13 islands 100 km from the coast of Morocco. Includes 2 provinces: Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Las Palmas. Their two capitals alternate in the rights of the administrative center.

Volcanic origin is the reason for the unique topography, climate, tropical flora and fauna of the islands, some species of which are endemic. This allowed the creation of a large number of national parks on the islands and protected areas.

The climate in the Canaries is tropical, humid, with minimal temperature fluctuations, allowing year-round recreation.

Canary Islands - Worldwide famous resort Atlantic. The line of beaches with developed infrastructure is more than 1.5 thousand km. Resort tourism is a priority branch of the region. Tenerife offers a comfortable and fairly active holiday, Gran Canaria is more secluded and calm, Fuerteventura is a surfer's paradise, La Gomera is a National Park with relic vegetation, Lanzarote is biosphere reserve volcanic activity.

In addition to the beauties of nature, the islands have preserved a number of historical and cultural attractions.

10. Cantabria

A small northern Autonomy of Spain, bordered by the Bay of Biscay. The capital of Cantabria is the city of Santander, the language is Spanish.

Cantabria is part of the "Green Spain". The mountain range of the Cantabrian Mountains passes through the territory of Canabria, occupying most of it. The relief of the region is mountainous, high (more than 400 m), covered with picturesque gorges that divide it into separate geographical areas: coastal La Marina with a humid oceanic climate; the main mountainous La Montagna with an alpine colder climate; the Campo zone and the southern valleys, where the climate is close to the Mediterranean.

Beaches among the rocks coastline with capes and estuaries, green valleys, foothill forests, full-flowing rivers create a unique landscape. There are 6 national parks in the region, the most famous National Park Peaks of Europe, Liencres Dunes Reserve, Sakha-Besaya hunting grounds. Popular activities in the region include snowboarding, skiing, mountaineering. Well-maintained coastal resorts offer surfing, sailing, diving.

Cantabria has a very ancient history and has preserved many archaeological sites: cave drawings in Altamira Cave, Las Monedas Caves, La Pasiega, El Castillo, El Soplao, the world's only Cave Exploration Center. Worth a visit in Santadera Maritime Museum, museum of archeology, fine arts.

11. Castile-La Mancha

The autonomous region of Castile-La Mancha includes 5 provinces: Toledo, Albacete, Guadalajara, Cuenca, Real, Ciudad. The capital of the autonomy is the city of Toledo.

Castilla-La Mancha is located in the center of Spain, occupying the south of Meseta. The main relief is a plain surrounded by mountains on three sides. The climate is characteristic of the Mediterranean, tending to the continental. There is snow in the mountains.

The antiquity of the history of the region explains the presence of primitive sites and rock art. In the Middle Ages, there was a separate state here - Old Castile. There are many fortresses and castles in the region. Thanks to Cervantes, the symbol of La Mancha became windmills. Ten windmills on the hills of Campo de Criptana are a landmark throughout Spain.

Toledo is richest in monuments: the Cathedral, the Church of St. Peter, the Cathedral of the Virgin Mary, the El Greco Museum, the castles of Consuelo, the Alcazar of Toledo, Oropeso, the Galiana Palace - see more places in our article "". Very interesting: the Museum of Abstract Art, "hanging houses" and the Museum of Science in Cuenca, the Palace of the Dukes of Infantado. The area is also famous for its annual ethnic traditions: running with the bulls, bullfighting, the Carnavalcasar festival, and a number of carnivals.

Available in the region and National parks. The most famous: Cabaneros and Tablas de Daimiel, Lagunas de Rudeira.

12. Castile and Leon

Castile and León is the largest autonomy of Spain, uniting the kingdom of León and the northern part of Old Castile. Includes 9 provinces. The administrative center is Valladolid. The official languages ​​are Spanish, Leonese, Galician. The historical role of Castile and Leon in the liberation Reconquista and the conquest of the New World is well known.

The region is located in the northern part of Meseta. The relief is flat with rare hills, in the south it passes into the Central Cordillera, in the east - into the Iberian mountains. The climate in the region is continental Mediterranean. northern high mountainous areas are influenced by the Atlantic, it is warmer and more humid here.

Tourism is one of the pillars of the region's economy. In the mountains are modern ski resorts. Main attractions: the pilgrimage Way of St. James, the Cathedral of Burgos, Roman aqueducts and gold mines, the wall of Avila, the primitive caves of the Sierra de Atapuerca. No less interesting are the Gothic Leon Cathedral, the University of Salamanca, the royal palace of the Alcazar, the Visigothic church in Zamora, the Templar monastery, a number of castles and architectural ensembles.

13. Catalonia

Autonomy is located in the most northeastern part of Spain, from the south and southeast it is washed by the Mediterranean Sea, in the north - Pyrenees mountains. Catalonia includes the provinces of Barcelona, ​​Tarragona, Lleida and Girona. The capital of the region is the second city of Spain - Barcelona. Spanish, Catalan, Occitan are the official languages. The region is distinguished by a pronounced national identity,

The landscapes of Catalonia are varied: mountain ranges Pyrenees, wooded valleys, many lakes, hilly central part, channels and lagoons of the Ebro river, a wide long line of sandy beaches. The Mediterranean climate of the coast at a distance from it acquires the features of a continental one. The mildness of the climate and golden beaches led to the emergence of world resorts: Costa Dorada, Costa Brava, Costa Marisme.

In addition to Barcelona, ​​the most important monuments of Catalonia include: the Dali Theatre-Museum, the Cathedral and the Benedictine Church, the Jewish quarter in Girona, the birthplace of Salvador Dali; the monasteries of Montserrat and Poblet, the archaeological complex of Tarraco, and a number of equally significant sights.

Southeastern autonomy and province of Spain, its capital is the city of Murcia of the same name. The southern border of the region is 170 km of sandy Mediterranean beaches. The territory is divided into almost equal parts: mountains, mountain green valleys, flat plateau, where many protected natural areas are located.

The climate is arid, arid, more humid at a distance from the sea. Murcia - Orchard and the greenhouse of Spain, where citrus fruits, flowers, fruits and vegetables are grown.

Murcia became an independent kingdom during the Arab period, which left great legacy. The main attractions are: the castles of Jumilla, Cartagena, Moratalia, Caravaca de la Cruz, Castillo de Lorca, as well as the Cathedral of St. Mary and the Cathedral, the Museum of Gardens, the Roman amphitheater and colonnade, the town hall, the "fortress of the sun" of Lorca in Catrachen.

Developed in Mkrsiya and resort tourism. The most popular resorts are Costa Calida, Puerto de Massarone, Bolnueevo and Alipas. In Murcia, there is the largest lake in Spain - the Mar Minor lagoon, the mineral-rich water of which is 5 degrees warmer than sea water, which made it possible to create the famous sanatorium-resort area of ​​La Manga del Mar Menor.

15. Navarre

A small northern autonomous community whose capital is the city of Pamplona. In addition to Spanish, the Basque language is officially recognized. Navarre shares a common border with France, which largely explains the cultural characteristics.

The region is divided into three zones: the northern mountainous regions of the Pyrenees, the middle zone of Terra Estella, the more flat southern steppe zone of Ribeira. The climate in the northern part of the region is humid Atlantic, in the south - Mediterranean, the middle part is characterized by a transitional variant.

Popular outdoor activities include mountain climbing, eco-tourism, fishing and hunting. There are several national parks on the territory (Bardenas Reales, Urbasa Andia, El Senorio de Bertis), famous thermal spa Banos de Fitero.

Navarre has long been an independent European kingdom and has reflected the historical past in historical, cultural and architectural landmarks. Most of they are concentrated in Pamplona: the Cathedral, the churches of St. Lorenzo, St. Nicholas, the palace of Navarra, the castle square, the town hall, the city walls. The main historical monuments also include: the royal palace, the churches of Michael the Archangel and San Pedro in Estella, the abbey of the Augustinian order, the Monastery of San Salvador in Leira, the pilgrimage route "Way of Santiago".

Navarra is known for its San Fermin holiday, which was described in detail by the native of these places Ernest Hemingway in the novel Fiesta.

16. Rioja (La Rioja)

The smallest autonomy of the north of Spain is the most famous wine region of Spain. Its center is the city of Logroño. From the north it is bounded by the Cantabrian mountains, from the south by the Sierra de la Demanda ranges, between them are the valleys of the Erbo River, best suited for viticulture.

The climate is Mediterranean continental, milder and more humid in Rioja Alta, dry and hot in Rioja Baja.

The beautiful varied landscape attracts tourists to the ski resort of Valdescarai, in the Cantabrian mountains. Mountaineering is popular hiking, paragliding, canoeing, hunting.

The history of the area since Phoenician times is connected with winemaking. Fertile lands have been the subject of numerous wars for many centuries. Evidence of the historical significance of the region are numerous monuments: the Rioja Museum, the Cathedral Church of the Virgin Mary, historical Center in Alfaro, parliament building church of St. James, castle of the 9th century, ruins of Roman buildings, monastery of St. Clara, museum of paleontology, natural history, residence of the bishop, Clavijo castle, monasteries of Suso and Yuso, caves of Ortigosa de Cameros, castle in Huber, museum of winemaking .

A special place is occupied by wine tourism, which includes visits to ancient and modern wineries, vineyards, wine museums and wine festivals.

17. Extremadura

The western region consists of the provinces of Cáceres and Badajoz, with Mérida as its capital. Estramadura has common border with Portugal. The main part is forested plateau plains, the northeastern part is occupied by the Toledo Mountains, in the south by the Sierra Morena Mountains.

The Mediterranean climate has continental features in highlands. Geographical and climatic conditions contributed to the diversity of flora and fauna. A number of natural parks of national importance have been created here (including the Montfragüe Biosphere Reserve).

The historical richness of Estramadura makes it especially interesting tourist attraction. Merida was the capital of Lusitania, a Roman province. Numerous monuments of a number historical eras preserved throughout the region: the Roman amphitheater and the aqueduct in Merida; monuments ancient kingdom Tartessus: temple of Diana; bridge over the river Guadiana; Roman triumphal arch; Roman villa; the palace and the ruins of the Roman baths in Trujillo; rock painting; State Museum Roman art; the castle of Alcazabai and the fortifications of the Arab period; cities built by the Templars; the monasteries of Juste and St. Paul; the Plaza Grande.

The administrative-territorial division of Spain is due to the form it is a unitary country, consisting of 17 autonomous communities (regions). The division into communities is enshrined in the Constitution of 1978. Each autonomy has its own government and charter.

Administrative divisions of Spain

The regions of the country are divided into provinces, of which there are a total of 50. Spain also owns two autonomous cities located in Africa - Melilla and Ceuta. The provinces are subdivided into districts, which in turn are subdivided into municipalities. Even a quarter within a locality may be a separate municipality with its own mayor's office and local government council.

Madrid

It is the central autonomy of the country with the capital of the same name. The region occupies a relatively small area of ​​8,028 sq. km, at the same time its population reaches almost 6.5 million people. Administrative division Spain is such that Madrid is also a separate province. Here prevails mediterranean climate with cold winters and hot summers. The region is home to a huge number of cultural and architectural monuments, historical sites, museums.

Andalusia

Let's continue to consider the administrative division of Spain. The autonomy with the beautiful name Andalusia is the southernmost in the country. It consists of eight provinces. The capital is the city of Seville. Andalusia has an area of ​​87,268 sq. km, which is home to almost 8.5 million people. This is a region with a diverse terrain: there are mountains, and lowlands, and a desert, and a strip of beaches. The climate is hot and dry.

Aragon

Autonomy in the northeast of the country, consisting of three provinces. The capital is Zaragoza. From the north, Aragon borders on France. The area of ​​the region is 47,719 sq. km, population - about 1.5 million people. This is a very beautiful autonomy, framed by mountain ranges. Here you can see snowy peaks, waterfalls, alpine meadows, mountain lakes and rivers, deep canyons, green valleys. Travelers come to Aragon for outdoor activities: Mountaineering, rafting, cycling and ski tourism are developed in the region.

Asturias

The Principality of Asturias, with Oviedo as its capital, is located in the north of the country. Area - 10,604 sq. km, population - just over 1 million people. People here speak Asturian. The relief of the region is bays, cliffs and mountains. There are beaches, and grottoes, and meadows, as well as yew, oak and beech forests, forming national park. Fans of mountaineering, skiing and ecotourism love to come to Asturias. Among other things, a lot of historical monuments are concentrated in this autonomy: palaces, churches, cathedrals, museums, caves.

Balearic Islands

Speaking about the administrative division of Spain, it is worth noting that in Europe you will not find a more diverse country. Autonomies include not only continental, but also insular territories. The Balearic Islands are a Mediterranean archipelago. The capital is Palma de Mallorca. The area of ​​the region is 4,992 sq. km, the population exceeds 1 million people. The islands in the archipelago have a different relief: Menorca is mostly flat, Majorca is mountainous, Ibiza and Formentera are covered with forests. The climate here is sunny and very warm, making the Balearic Islands a well-known resort area.

Basque country

The most distinctive territorial unit in the administrative division of Spain. The capital of the Basque country is the city of Vitoria. This northeast region includes three provinces. Area - 7,234 sq. km, population - over 2 million people. Here people speak the unique Basque language. The relief in the Basque Country is complex: mountain ranges and sandy coast, indented with bays and cliffs. Beach, mountain, rural tourism is popular in the region.

Valencia

Autonomy in the east of Spain with the capital of the same name. Valencia unites three provinces. Area - 23,255 sq. km, population - more than 5 million people. The relief is represented by a coastal strip, adjacent hills and a plain. The climate and landscape of the region are such that unique ecosystems have formed here, as a result, many protected areas have been created. Valencia is also famous all over the world for its beaches.

Galicia

This autonomous community in the northwest of the country is also called the "edge of the world." Galicia consists of four provinces, the capital is Santiago de Compostela. Area - 29,574 sq. km, population - almost 3 million people. The region is distinguished by a diverse relief: forests, rivers, low mountains, coastline with fjords and capes. There are many reserves, national parks, historical monuments in Galicia. Here you can see the fortress towers of ancient Celtic settlements, Romanesque buildings, Muslim and Christian churches.

Canary Islands

This is the most remote autonomy of Spain. The Canary Islands are an archipelago consisting of 13 islands. The region includes two provinces and has two capitals. Area - 7,447 sq. km, population - more than 2 million people. Canaries have volcanic origin, therefore, there is a unique relief and climate, which led to the creation of a large number of protected areas and parks. Climate - humid, tropical, allows you to relax on the beaches all year round. That is why the priority industry of the region is resort tourism.

Castile-La Mancha

This autonomous community is located in the center of the country and includes five provinces. Area - 79,463 sq. km, population - over 2 million people. The relief is represented by a plain, which is surrounded by mountains. The region is known for its ancient fortresses and castles; in the Middle Ages, there was a separate state here. Especially rich in historical monuments Toledo - the capital of autonomy. Castile-La Mancha is also famous for its rich ethnic traditions: carnivals and festivals are held in the region every year.

Castile and Leon

It is the largest autonomous community with 94,223 sq. km. The population exceeds 2.5 million people. The region includes nine provinces, the capital is Valladolid. The flat relief in the south and east turns into mountains. Famous ski resorts are located here, which makes the autonomy attractive for tourists.

Catalonia

A region in the northeast of the country with an area of ​​32,114 sq. km, with a population of more than 7.5 million people. Catalonia includes four provinces, the capital is Barcelona. The landscape of the autonomy is very diverse: hills, forests, mountain ranges, lakes, rivers and sandy beaches Mediterranean. The mild climate contributed to the fact that numerous world-famous resorts appeared in Catalonia. The capital of the region is a real city-museum, with many architectural and cultural monuments.

Murcia

This autonomous community with the capital of the same name is located in the southeast of Spain. Area - 11 313 sq. km, population - about 1.5 million people. In the south of the region there is a strip of beaches with a length of 170 km. Also here is largest lake Mar Menor is a unique natural reserve.

Extremadura

Western region of Spain, comprising two provinces. The capital is Merida. Extremadura borders on Portugal, the relief is mostly mountainous. Area - 41,634 sq. km, population - more than 1 million people. The autonomy is a well-known tourist destination, as the Roman province of Lusitania used to be here. Throughout the region, monuments of those times have been preserved: an amphitheater, a triumphal arch, the ruins of Roman baths.

In addition to the above, Spain includes 3 more autonomous communities: Rioja, Navarre and Cantabria. They are small in size and population.

This is the administrative division of Spain. Each of the 17 autonomies is very distinctive and unlike the others. This is due to the rich history of the country and long-term conquests, which had a decisive influence on the formation of ethnic and cultural traditions.