Introduction
This article is meant to be a brief introduction to the country of Spain. We will cover Spain’s history, landscape, monarchy, Spanish culture, and coinage.
Spain’s Founding & History
Spain has a rich and complex history, and its founding is no exception. The Iberian Peninsula, where modern-day Spain is situated, has been inhabited since prehistoric times. Archaeological evidence suggests that humans have inhabited what is now modern-day Spain for over 1.2 million years. The earliest known human remains in Spain date back to the Paleolithic period, around 800,000 years ago. These early humans were hunter-gatherers and left behind stone tools, cave paintings, and other artifacts that provide insight into their way of life.
However, Spain’s founding as a nation-state was not officially established until 1469 CE when Isabella I of Castile and Ferdinand II of Aragon were married and united their kingdoms. This period, known as the Catholic Monarchs, marked a significant moment in Spanish history as it set the stage for the country’s golden age of exploration and conquest.
Spain’s Land Scape
Spain’s landscape is vast and diverse, ranging from the snowy peaks of the Pyrenees to the sunny beaches of the Costa del Sol. The country is also home to expansive plains, stunning river valleys, rocky deserts, and dense forests. The mountains, in particular, play a major role in Spain’s landscape, with the Sierra Nevada spanning the southern coastlines of Andalusia and the Picos de Europa in the north boasting rugged terrain and incredible biodiversity. Add to that the rich cultural and historical landmarks punctuating this diverse landscape, and it’s no wonder Spain is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and travelers alike.
The Bell Tower and Gateway at Guadalest, located near Benidorm in Spain, is a world-renowned tourist attraction that draws thousands of visitors each year. This historic tower was built during the 12th century and was once used as a watchtower by the local population. Its unusual design and breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside have made it an icon of Guadalest. Visitors can explore the interior of the tower and learn about its rich history, or simply take in the stunning panoramic views from its rooftop. A visit to the Bell Tower and Gateway at Guadalest is an unforgettable experience that is not to be missed.
Spains Monarchy
Spain’s monarchy has a long history that spans several centuries. Monarchs from the Visigothic Kingdom ruled the country in the 5th century to the modern-day constitutional monarchy. During the 16th century, Spain became one of the world’s most powerful nations under the rule of the Habsburg dynasty. However, the War of Spanish Succession led to the decline of the monarchy, which was restructured under the Bourbon dynasty in 1716 CE. Spain’s monarchy remained in power until the 1931 Second Spanish Republic was established. 1975 the monarchy was restored, and King Juan Carlos I was crowned the new king.
The Royal Palace of Aranjuez, located in the town of Aranjuez, Madrid, Spain, is a stunning piece of architecture that dates back to the 16th century. The palace has undergone several modifications throughout the centuries, with each ruling monarch leaving their own unique imprint on the structure. The palace boasts an impressive collection of artwork and furniture, making it a must-see destination for lovers of history and art. Visitors to the palace can also take a stroll through its lush gardens, which are considered to be some of the most beautiful in Europe.
Spanish Culture
Spanish culture is a rich tapestry of influences from Spain’s history and geography. It is known for its vibrant festivals, flamenco dancing, and bullfighting. The country is also famous for its culinary traditions, including paella and tapas. Spain has a long history of wine production, with many regions producing their own unique wines.
Family and community are also important in Spanish culture, with people often gathering to share meals and enjoy each other’s company. The country is known for its siesta tradition, where many businesses close for a few hours in the afternoon for a break. Spain’s culture is diverse and full of life, with a deep sense of pride in its traditions and heritage.
Founding Of The “New World”
Spain’s history of colonization of the New World began in 1492 CE when Christopher Columbus received funding from Spain’s Catholic Monarchs, King Ferdinand II and Queen Isabella I, to explore a sea route to Asia. He eventually landed in what is now the Bahamas, quickly beginning Spain’s colonization of the Caribbean. In the following years, Spanish explorers and conquistadors would continue to explore and colonize much of the Americas, including Mexico, Central America, Peru, and parts of South America.
By the 16th century, Spain’s empire in the New World was the largest in the world, with vast amounts of land and resources under their control. This expansion brought wealth and power to Spain, but also had devastating consequences for the indigenous populations they encountered. Forced labor, disease, and violent conflicts led to the deaths of millions of Native Americans. Despite this, Spain’s impact on the New World is still felt today through its language, Spanish and Latin American culture, religion, and architecture.
Modern Spain
Spain in the 19th century was characterized by political instability and economic struggles, with frequent changes in government leading to a lack of effective leadership. However, the late 19th century saw a period of modernization and reforms, with improvements in infrastructure and the economy. During the early 20th century, Spain faced political and social turmoil, including a monarchic restoration and the Spanish Civil War of the 1930s. Francisco Franco then rose to power and governed Spain as a dictatorship until his death in 1975.
Since then, Spain has undergone significant changes, transitioning to a democratic government and joining the European Union. The country has seen impressive economic growth and modernization, with a focus on technology and renewable energy. However, Spain continues to face challenges such as high unemployment rates and political polarization. Despite these challenges, the country remains a cultural and economic powerhouse in Europe, with a rich history and promising future.
Spanish Coins
Collectors highly seek after Spanish gold and silver coins due to their historical significance and beautiful designs. Many of these coins were used as currency during the Spanish Empire’s global expansion in the 16th and 17th centuries, making them valuable not only for their aesthetic qualities but also for their place in world history. Below is a link to all of the Spanish silver coins we currently have in stock.
Spanish Silver Coins
These are all of the Spanish silver Certified and Non-Certified coins we currently have for sale. If you would like to read about the history and country of Spain, we recommend reading our blog post: “Spain: Birthplace Of Flamenco.”
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