Madrid, Spain Home of International singer Enrique Iglesias

Spain’s Flag The red banners on the flag describes the Latin motto PLUS ULTRA which means “more beyond”. This saying describes Columbus’ discovery of the New World.

Spain’s Brief History Many groups have invaded Spain and controlled it. Iberians, Phoenicians, Celts, Greeks, Carthaginians, Romans, Visigoths, and Moors have all had their part and effect on Spain was a special year in history for Spain. This is the year when Christopher Columbus started his journey to the America’s. In 1580, Spain and Portugal became united to create a single Spanish territory. Spain’s territories included South America, Central America, Asia- Pacific, southern Italy, Germany, the Low Countries and of course the Iberian Peninsula.

Cultural and Religious Celebrations The majority of the religion in Spain is Catholicism. Many celebrations revolve around the life of Jesus Christ. Religious Celebrations Lent- March 22-April 20 (depending) Holy week (Easter)- 1 st Sunday in Easter to the following Sunday Christmas- Dec. 25

Major Sports The most known and appreciated sport of Spain would be Association Football or soccer. Some of the well-known soccer teams have also come from Spain.

Regular Meals Spaniards have three meals a day, similar to the U.S. Breakfast Smallest meal of the day Lunch Largest meal of the day with multiple courses Schools, shops or businesses traditionally close for 2-3 hour for lunch. People out working in the hot sun would usually need a break and go home to eat a large meal and settle in for a nap before returning to work. There is no longer lunch breaks that long, and usually most people cannot go home in time enough to eat. Dinner Dinner consists of a smaller lunch and is between 9pm and midnight.

Major Holidays The Roman Catholic Religion plays a big role in the major holidays that take place in Spain. New Years Day- Jan. 1 st Epiphany- Jan 6 Easter- April Primero de Mayo- May 1 st (similar to U.S. Labor Day) Dia de las Madres- May 10 th (Mothers Day) Saint Peter and St. Paul- June 29 (celebrated saints) Running of the Bulls- July 6-14 St. James (Patron saint of Spain)- July 25 Feast of Assumptions (Mary’s belief)- Aug. 15 Spanish National Day- Oct. 12 Day of the Constitution- Dec. 6 Immaculate conception-Dec. 8 Christmas and Christmas Eve- Dec.24-25

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