Spain

Resembling a bowl of salad, Spain has every flavor of attraction your heart desires. From the silence of a quiet evening to the laughter of a crazy night, Spain is packed with something for everyone’s personality. The peninsula, located in southwestern Europe, is one of the three countries surrounded by the Mediterranean and the Atlantic Ocean with over 2,000 beaches.

Don’t despair if beaches aren’t your thing, there are plenty of other exciting destinations waiting for you to explore. Mind blowing architecture, breathtaking mountains, spectacular theme parks, striking mosques and mouth-watering dishes, are only few of the many great things Spain has to offer.

History

Once ruled by an absolute monarchy, and now by a constitutional monarchy, Spain’s struggle for a best fit government is evident through its long history. The object of possession in a game of tug-of-war between Muslims (now referred to as Moors in the region) and Christians, the Iberian Peninsula has witnessed frequent wars. Muslims governed Spain for over 700 years from 711 to 1492 AD. Often called Moors, the Muslims of Spain were black Africans. The tremendous influence of Muslim rule in Spain still remains intact to the present day, and the Moorish advances in mathematics, astronomy, art, and agriculture helped propel Europe out of the Dark Ages and into the Renaissance. Although the vast majority of the most evident signs have been sadly destroyed by successive Spanish rulers, some wonders, such as the magnificent Alhambra palace have been preserved. The Moors established universal education in Spain, with 17 universities and over 70 libraries at a time when 99 per cent of the neighbouring European population remained illiterate.

During Muslim rule, Christian and Muslim co-operation and alliances were common. The narrative was changed however with the onset of the crusades in the 11th century; when the idea of ‘reconcuesta’ was propagated with political goals of elevating Muslim-Christian hostilities. Internal divides and squabbles within the Muslim empire. led to a weakened government and by 1145 Islamic domination of Spain had ended, with Muslims losing all power with the loss of Granada to Ferdinand and Isabella in 1492.

Famously known for financing Christopher Columbus’s voyage to the New World, the marriage of this couple bought a number of independent Spanis dominions under one rule, thereby unifying Spain. the vigorous pursuit of colonial imperialism by Isabella and Ferdinand led to great prosperity for Spain. The sheer size of the Spanish empire left it open to attacks from multiple fronts. The defeat suffered by the Spanish Armada (a fleet of 130 ships sent to overthrow Englands Elizabeth I) in the 16th century as a tipping point in the and the gradual decline of the empire. A series of events followed such as the Spanish American War, removal of King Alfonso, and the Spanish Civil War, which all gradually led to the declaration of Spain as a constitutional monarchy. Despite her long struggle to find her voice, Spain remains a powerful countries in the world, attracting millions of visitors every year.

Food

A taste of the many scrumptious dishes of Spain will leave you begging for the recipe. The joy of Spanish Tapas Lets the foodie experience a small amount of lots of dishes, just order more of the ones you like through out your meal. One of the more famous Spanish dishes is Tortilla Espanola, an omelet with egg, potatoes and onions. It is served as an appetizer in many cafes and restaurants; it is even served as dinner in many Spanish households. Once in Spain you may catch people drinking a red thick beverage, keep calm they are not drinking ketchup. Gazpacho is a cold refreshing soup blended with tomatoes, cucumbers, bread, pepper, garlic and onions; it is drank during the hot summer days. You cannot leave Spain without trying Patatas bravas which is chunks of potatoes rolled in tomatoes sauce. Pisto also known as the Spanish ratatouille is a side dish of peppers, onions, garlic, zucchini, and tomato. With regards to halal food there is a halal restaurant in Granada called Arrayanes that serves Moroccan food. As a matter fact, there are several restaurants in Granada that serve Indian, Thai, Egyptian, and Pakistani food, navigate through the Zabihah website for a complete list. For a light lunch stop by at Pizza Corner Halal in Andalucia for a quick slice of yummy Italian pizza. Spain’s rich culture is portrayed through its traditional dishes. Don’t forget to be cautious and eat halal!

Los Almendros

A halal certified restaurant that offers traditional food from Cordoba, Los Almendros is a must visit restaurant for your visit to Spain. Although you need a car to get there, it is worth the drive up the hills from the city or from the ruins of Medina Azahara. Try the Pastela de Pollo y Verduras – Chicken Pastela and vegetables. This restaurant is highly recommended for those who want to cover the different tastes and expectations of a family or group of friends.

Balansiya

One of the most authentic Moroccan restaurants in Valencia, the beautiful Moroccan furnishings and background music sets the ambience for a perfect meal. Take advantage of the moderately priced food, and order a mixture of starters, main and dessert to share amongst your group. The scarab -sherbet drinks – are the perfect accompaniment to your meal. Menus are in English for non-Spanish speakers, and most of the wait staff speak Arabic.

Attractions

Alhambra

The incredible Islamic architecture of the famous landmark, Calat Alhambra, will leave you in wonder. The palace and fortress of the Moorish empire is draped in elegant designs from top to bottom. Located in Granada, Andalusia, the fortress was built strategically at the top of a hill to overlook Granada by Abdullah Ibn Muhammad (800-912). Not only will you get to see the intricate designs of the palace but enjoy a view of Granada as well. Along with the palace, the Generalife was constructed in the 14th century to further enhance your experience. Forming a peaceful atmosphere, the Court of the Lions includes a beautiful garden with creative fountains that spring out water. There is even a theatre within the Generalife which holds international dance and music performances. The greatness of Alhambra and Generalife was recognized by United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization which listed the palace as a World Heritage Site. With the Alhambra, you simply cannot go wrong due to the variety of attractions within the palace. One thing for certain, the gorgeous buildings of the Alhambra will compel you to have a greater appreciation for Islamic architecture!

The Great Mosque of Cordoba (Mezquita)

Still intact from the Moorish rule, The Great Mosque of Cordoba is a reminder of the times Spain was a Muslim country. Dedicated to worshiping a higher power, the building served as a temple, church, mosque and now a cathedral. The jaw-dropping mosque was built by the great Ibn al- Rahman in 784. Many tourist agree that the Mosque is even more beautiful than the Alhambra due to the carefully elaborated designs. The Hypostyle Hall in the cathedral consists of a prayer hall with symmetrical arches painted with red and gold colours. The mihrab is absolutely gorgeous with complex patterns covered with different shades of gold, red and black. You will find yourself gazing at the architecture with your eyes locked. Just inches above the mihrab lays a dazzling dome with golden arches that overlap each other. Geometry at its finest, the Great Mosque of Cordoba exhibits the intelligence of Muslim architectures in such an early period of time. A visit to the gorgeous Cathedral will not only amaze but inspire you. Beware though, praying in the mosque is strictly prohibited and security have been known to follow people and even escort some out of the building for trying to offer salah inside.

Museu Picasso

Debate about the literal and the figurative interpretations of Pablo Picasso’s artwork right from his birthplace. The Museu Picasso located in Barcelona holds the largest collection of Picasso’s paintings with over 3,000 pieces. The unique design of the museum makes it even more attractive. The Museu Picasso includes some of his early works painted at the age of 14 such as Science & Charity, a portrait of his mother and father. Highlight of Picasso’s painting includes The Harlequin, a painting of a mythical character that is often associated to the Greek gods and known to have invisibility powers. One famous collection found in Museu Picasso is the Las Meninas. In this collection, Picasso imitated and recreated 58 times the painting, Las Meninas by Diego Vazquez. That’s right an artist interpreting another artist’s work, you must see it to believe it. If you are intrigued by the abstract world, take a stroll down the halls of Museu Picasso to experience the fascinating artwork of the world famous artist. It will open your eyes about the various meanings behind one piece of artwork.

Natural Wonders

La Sagra Mountain and alqueria de Rosales

If you’re feeling adventurous then tackle the la Sagra mountain. Ranked among the 10 most spectacular ascents throughout the country, there are few options to learn, promote or climb this imposing mountain, some very accessible, since we can use marked trails and traditionally used by shepherds, loggers; and others only available to the most qualified and experienced climbers and mountaineers. Though isolated, the Sagra mountain is considered to be the most spectacular of all peninsula mountains. It is the second highest peak in Andalucia, and is most beautiful in winter with the presence of snow.

Get in touch with the environmental treasures of the mountain, gazing upon notable specimens of national flora and fauna, as well as notable endemic species such as Crepis Granatensis or Saxifraga Rigoi Freyn, which will delight the Botany fans and lovers of the environment in general. The Northern slope of la Sagra is thick with abundant pine forests, holm oaks and junipers. It is also home to the Sequoias trees, that can require 6 or 7 people to encircle its trunk.

The Sierra de la Sagra is also refuge of remarkable species of the Iberian fauna as the griffon vulture or Bonelli’s eagle and the environment is an unique place to enjoy the braying in the times of zeal of deer and mountain goats. For visitors that prefer our smaller friends, the mountain has been declared a place of interest by the Conservation of invertebrates due to the species of butterflies and beetles that take up residence there.

Be sure to take time to stop at the alqueria de Rosales; a beautiful retreat centre built almost 20 years ago that offers a calm haven of reflection and respite amongst unspoilt natural surroundings. the focal point of the Alqueria is undoubtedly the Andalucian style mosque. Coloured woven rugs are spread out on the cool tiled floor, and the walls rise up to meet the ceiling in pure white simplicity. A trip to La Sagra and Alqueria de Rosales is a must for any traveler to Spain.

Mosque

The Mezquita de Granada is the first purpose-built mosque in Granada in the last 500 years, and even then it has not been without its opposition. This picturesque mosque sits on top of one of Granada’s highest hills, and from its walls visitors can look across to the Alhambra. The mosque beautifully incorporates Spanish architecture and colours that sit alongside colourful geometric tiles on walls and ground alike. Although a small mosque, it carries with it a big responsibility of winning over locals; many of whom remain opposed its building. The mosque administration has worked valiantly to be a welcoming space to worshipers and visitors alike, and both the grounds and the prayer space are open to all. The mosque has been adorned with simple yet elegant design and the gardens are a sight to behold, tranquil, calm and simply beautiful. The bright orange tiles adorning the roof of the mosque blend with the surrounding buildings and demonstrate Islam’s acceptance of the cultural beauty of its followers. Inside the grounds listen to the gentle sounds of water flowing in the 8 pointed fountain while you sit amongst the green gardens. Join the congregational prayers in this historical mosque that celebrates both Islam and Spain.