15 Facts About Spain Most People Get Wrong
Spain is home to 47.5M people across 505,990 km², making it a country whose population is spread fairly evenly across its territory. It ranks 14th in the world for Economy.
Below are 15 facts about Spain, covering history, geography, economy and culture, including several that regularly surprise people who think they already know the country.
15 Facts About Spain
A complete overview of Spain's history, geography, economy and culture, covering everything from population and borders to language, climate and travel.
Spain has the second oldest restaurant in the world, Sobrino de Botín in Madrid, since 1725.
Spain produces more olive oil than any other country, 44% of world supply.
Spanish is the second most spoken native language in the world after Mandarin.
Spain has the second most UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Europe after Italy.
Spain is located in Southern Europe, Europe, with its capital city in Madrid.
The population of Spain is approximately 47.5M, spread across 505,990 km² of territory.
Spain has a population density of 94/km²: a moderate density for its region.
Spain has a coastline of 4,964 km, giving it access to maritime trade, fishing and coastal tourism.
Spain shares land borders with 4 countries: France, Andorra, Portugal, Morocco.
The official language of Spain is Spanish.
Spain uses the Euro (€) as its official currency.
Spain gained independence in 1479, establishing itself as a sovereign nation in Southern Europe.
The total GDP of Spain is $1.42T, with a GDP per capita of $29,890, classifying it as a upper-middle-income economy.
Spain has a mediterranean south, continental center, atlantic north climate, with the best time to visit being April–June, September–October.
Spain is considered a Mid destination for travellers, with meals averaging $8–15.
Spain is the world's largest producer of olive oil, supplying 45% of global production. It also invented the mop, the stapler, and the submarine.
🏆 Spain World Rankings
Spain holds several notable world rankings; here is how it compares globally:
Famous Places in Spain
Spain is home to several remarkable landmarks and destinations that draw visitors from around the world:
⛪ Sagrada Família
Gaudí's unfinished UNESCO basilica, under construction since 1882 and still going
🏰 Alhambra, Granada
A UNESCO Moorish palace and fortress of breathtaking geometric artistry
🎨 Park Güell
Gaudí's UNESCO mosaic park of surreal architecture overlooking Barcelona
🎨 Prado Museum
One of the world's finest art museums, home to Velázquez, Goya and El Greco
Frequently Asked Questions About Spain
What is Spain famous for?
Spain is the world's largest producer of olive oil, supplying 45% of global production. It also invented the mop, the stapler, and the submarine.
What is the capital of Spain?
The capital of Spain is Madrid.
What is the population of Spain?
Spain has a population of approximately 47.5M as of 2026.
What language do they speak in Spain?
The official language of Spain is Spanish.
When did Spain become an independent country?
Spain gained independence in 1479.
What currency does Spain use?
Spain uses the Euro (€).
What is the GDP of Spain?
Spain has a GDP of $1.42T, with a GDP per capita of $29,890.
Where is Spain located?
Spain is located in Southern Europe, Europe.
Is Spain safe to visit?
Safety conditions in Spain vary by region. Always check your government's official travel advisory before visiting.
What are some fun facts about Spain?
Spain has the second oldest restaurant in the world, Sobrino de Botín in Madrid, since 1725. Spain produces more olive oil than any other country, 44% of world supply. Spanish is the second most spoken native language in the world after Mandarin.
What are some interesting facts about Spain?
Spain produces more olive oil than any other country, 44% of world supply. Spanish is the second most spoken native language in the world after Mandarin. Spain has the second most UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Europe after Italy.
Spain facts: what should I know?
Spain is a country in Southern Europe with a population of 47.5M. Its capital is Madrid and its official language is Spanish. Spain has the second oldest restaurant in the world, Sobrino de Botín in Madrid, since 1725.
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