Tuesday, December 21, 2010

Spain Attractions That You Should Visit

Spain is widely known for the many tourist spots that are scattered across the country. Spain is home to a rich cultural heritage that takes pride in their origin as evident in their old churches, and quaint museums. A lot of these churches and museums can be found in the larger cities of the country. The small villages of Spain are also packed with historical sites that are worth a visit. Generally, an eager traveler has plenty of places to cover while staying in Spain. This gives tourists an opportunity to get to know Spain and its unique character as a country of diverse culture.

Places to Visit in Spain

Spain attractions are aplenty in the country. Most are eye candies and are very overwhelming sightseeing places that present itself with glamor and sophistication. Take for instance the city of Barcelona. This place is a representation of a melting pot between Carthage, Rome, France and Moors that have contributed a lot in Spain's rich mixture of culture. These places are part and parcel of Spain's history and amazing architecture.

The Famous Museums and Plazas in Spain

Spain's capital, Madrid, is seated in the heart of the country. This city is home to quaint art halls that house the fine artworks of famous artists from the country. It owns a wide collection of paintings and the country's jewels. Madrid never runs out of shopping areas and restaurants. There are several bars across the city that play good music and serve good food.

Three of the great museums are compacted at a place called the Golden Triangle. These museums are great places for art appreciation and remembering Spain during its old golden times. On the other hand, most ceremonies are held in a function area most known as the Royal Palace. It has in it a lovely garden and the throne room that is very much famous among visitors, tourists and native alike. People who want to witness a good deal of action may come and visit bullfighting rings in Spain. Plaza de Toros de las Ventas. Most bullfighting enthusiasts gather around this place to check out the bullfighting arena.

Another one of the good places for sound sightseeing is Andalusia's capital, the Seville. The place is home to several plazas that hold breathtaking views. Tourists are fond of taking pictures in this plaza, specifically by the fountain because the place is a good setting for captured moments.

Other places that are worthy of mention include the tower of Torre del Torro, another museum with classified works of art. Exhibits are also out for display in this museum. It usually depicts the interesting influences to the country of Spain. For day tours, never miss to take a look at the well landscaped gardens laid in the royal palace of The Alcazar.

The Famous Beaches and Golf Courses in Spain

Malaga of Costa del Sol is home to another Spain attractions particularly of hot, long beaches. The best time to visit this place is during summer whether its all about getting a good tan or pure relaxation. Costa del Sol is also known as Costa del Golf because of several golf courses and resorts that are abundant in the region.

Sunday, December 19, 2010

Art, Queen Sofia, and Spain

If you have a desire to see some of the best art in Spain, look no further than the Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofia on Calle Santa Isabel 52. Among the masterpieces hanging on the walls are works from Solana, Miro and Picasso.

One of the most famed pieces of the hundreds of works hanging on the walls of the Queen Sofia is Picasso's Guernica. That joined with the other works have ranked this museum's modern art collection as one of the most important not just in Spain, but in all off Europe.

When one thinks of modern art, they also usually think of that art being housed in a very modern gallery. This is not the case with the Queen Sofia. The building was constructed in the 18th century. It's life was to end in the 1970's, with a date to be demolished, but it was then declared a historic monument and preserved, then turned into a museum.

Not only is the building a place to view great works, it also offers a great view of the city. The building has transparent framed elevators that you will travel on as you go to the gallery. From the elevator, you can get a fabulous view of Madrid.

Once you step out of the elevator, your art experience is underway. First, you will encounter a selection of Solana artworks including The Circle of the Cafe Pombo, The Meeting of the Pharmacy, and The Chorus Girls. While these are more modern of pieces, the collection runs the range from the late 19th century to modern day work.

There is a huge collection of Miro in the museum, which is a very popular attraction for the crowds who came to the collection include Escargot, Femme, Construction, Pipe and Fleur Femme et Oiseau dans la Nuit (Woman and bird in the night). This work was painted in the 20s and 30s in Barcelona.

Another very popular series of works from the museum are those of Dali. Queen Sofia are included in the light of the moon in 1927, the portrait Galarina 1945, and its1951 and 1955 Crucifixion paintings.

Of course, many are drawn to the several Picasso pieces housed in the museum. They may not be what many would expect from a Picasso assortment. Included in this collection is his 1896 First Communion , which has a young Picasso painting in a very academic style. In addition, the 1901 Woman In Blue also shows some of his younger work.

You begin to see Picasso's cubist style in the 1907 Las Señoritas de Avignon . Eye catching is the 1937 Guernica painting, which displays Picasso's impression of a bombing of this town.

The Queen Sophia collection is not limited to paintings. The collection also includes over 46,000 square yards of exhibition area which houses a number of pieces of porcelain, glass, pottery and other works of art. In addition, there is a library for studies and research into artworks, as well as a cafeteria once you work up an appetite from your travel through the vast halls.

Do look up these and many more artistic places the next time you visit Spain. Who knows maybe you will fall in love with the country and even consider buying property in Costa Blanca to settle in Spain!

Thursday, December 16, 2010

Spanish Aura and Spain Hotels

Famous for sangria, paella and the awe-inspiring loveliness of the Mediterranean coast, Spain has always been one of the most sought-after holiday spots. Dotted with scenic location, the country has a lot to offer to its tourists.

The snow covered mountains of Pyrenees, besides having a majestic look is also an excellent place to indulge in skiing. In the north of Spain, you will find beautiful cascading river streams and verdant forest of Galicia that will take you a completely different world. And to the south are mostly the culture of Galicia. Very much in touch with its rich cultural heritage, Spain is just fantastic. Walking along the streets of Spain, he would suddenly feel baffled by visiting the impressive architectural splendor await you, know that, in fact, every year visit in the vicinity of about 50 million foreigners in the country. This is the magnetism of Spain. Accommodation in Spain is easy to find. Hotel> Spain are everywhere.

Although Spain is the year in the summer season is ideal for visiting most of them in May, June and September in the north and south during the months of April and October.

Madrid

There is something mystical about the city of Madrid. As the state capital of Madrid is a very ultra-chic space. cultural heritage of modern infrastructure and high in Madrid is a fantasticplace to spend the holidays. The renowned center of Madrid is one of the major cities of Europe. The best time to visit Madrid is in spring and October. But if you happen to be a party animal, then the month of May is the ideal time will be the largest of all the parties in this period. On the other hand, it is recommended that you make advance booking for these months, because these are the peak periods of the year and the beginning of a dwelling may bea problem.

Barcelona

With a modern lifestyle, old neighborhoods and daring blend of art, Barcelona is a place where you realize that the time to stop. Its remarkable architectural buildings Cantalan architect Luis Doménech i Montaner and Antoni Gaudí is one of the world heritage sites built were confirmed. Besides that contains the cultural heritage of the place, music, dance and theater. Festivals and celebrations, as Mercè FestivalGràcia, Sants, or Poblenou are the times when you can best witness the frolic mood of Barcelona. The food available here is also scrumptious.

Granada

At the base of Sierra Nevada lies Granada which is one of the most exciting cities in the east of Andalusia. Here, in Granada you will come across beautiful architectural structures from the era of Renaissance along with modern infrastructures typical of 21st century.

Varying from luxury resorts to budget hotels, Hotels in Spain have a lot to offer. Services available in Spain Hotels include mini golf, gym, spa, heated swimming pool among others depending upon your budget. A prior reservation is strictly recommended to avoid last minute bother.

Wednesday, December 15, 2010

Basilica de San Francisco El Grande Is a Must-See in Spain

Madrid is definitely a sightseers dream as well as heaven for art lovers. If you have any doubt, taking a tour of the church of San Francisco will end those doubts as well as keep your interest piqued the entire time. This tour will show you one of the most important buildings in Madrid. The church has many beautiful sculptures and paintings and even the dome of St. Paul's Cathedral isn't as large as what you will see here (108 feet).

Regardless of what part of Madrid you choose to visit, you will see what an important part religion and art play in their history. This basilica which was detailed under the guidance of Carlos III in 1760 was built on location reportedly discovered by St. Francis of Assisi in 1217. San Francisco El Grande is located in the older part of Madrid, but its beauty still speaks for itself with the three-sectional edifice warmly greeting you.

You will be in awe as you see the gorgeous stained-glass windows, the elaborate detailed frescos and the barrel vaulted ceilings. Once you enter, you will see seven walnut-covered doors, which will lead you to many more art-filled chapels. One of the chapels has a Goya painting called the San Bernardino de Siena. This painting is of the saint. Right next to this piece of art is another painting-this one a self portrait by the artist. There is not a more beautiful cathedral anywhere in Europe than the church of San Francisco.

Goya is not the only paintings you will see here. Dozens of sculptures and paintings adorn the walls. You will get to view work by Maella, Cano and Zurbarán as well as some Bellver and Benlliure sculpting works.

You will find paintings and items that date as far back as the 16th century, even though the church wasn't built until the 18th century. One example is old Gothic choir stalls for Segovia. Many will feel they are entering and sightseeing an art museum, but this is also a cathedral that is still very much in use. Anyone wishing a tour will have a guide to show him around the church and all its contents. You will find there are many buses coming and going to and from the church. A Metro stop is at La Latina or Puerta de Toledo.

Monday, December 13, 2010

Begin Your Spanish Holiday Exploring Madrid

For those who are interested in learning a language, there is no better way to practice your skills than travel to the country in question. If you want to teach yourself Spanish, the best place to go is Madrid, one of the great capital cities of Europe.

Madrid, Spain is known as the 'Puerta del Sol', or 'Gate of the Sun.' Exploring historical Madrid is one more experience for your vacation. One destination that invites you to begin your Spanish Holidays exploring Madrid. Begins the historic "Casa de Correos, Madrid's streets to find a network of six main veins radiating from the center of the city of Madrid in the Spanish countryside and stretches.

Once upon a time held off the invaders and the war in the city of Madrid. Of the fourteen hundred cities and settlements of any nature in general their fortified settlements, cities and metropolitan areas. Madrid at a time, was a historicalprotective wall surrounding its citizens. On your holiday to Madrid, you'll discover military fortification preserved from the Phoenicians to the roman the moors and then the Christians.

Amidst these now tourist attractions is a massive sculpture of a bear planted atop of Madrid's famous Madrid's famous Regina Hotel on its most celebrated Alcala Street. The bear is depicted eating the fruit of a tree which gave the city of Madrid its name. The fruit of the Madrone Tree was a favorite of the locals' bears in the fourteen century. The city adopted the bear as a symbol of strength for the people of the city. From this historical Regina Hotel you can see the many unique statues on top of celebrated Spanish banks.

One of Madrid's most important Spanish attractions, House of the Post Office, is nearby and is recognizable by its large tower clock. The post office building dates from the mid seventeen hundreds, and if you're lucky enough to be in Madrid during New Years Holiday you'll discover one of Spain's most fantastic celebrations. The historical holiday celebration is traditional complete with the festive ceremonial eating of twelve grapes as the clock chimes. Everyone cheers in celebration of the New Year.

Spanish celebrations and delight are plentiful in such Madrid locations as Madrid's main gate the Puerta del Sol. There are times when The Spanish commonly use this Historical location for political discourse and other social protests. From here it's just a short walk to Spain's Royal Palace and the Plaza Mayor (the center of the Spanish world).

Madrid has numerous shopping districts with high fashion to more causal Spanish cloths. You'll find specialty and antique shops, as well as the common open air Spanish markets. While in Madrid, and on your Spanish trip you'll not be at a loss for typical Madrid's nightlife. Much of this cities nightlife doesn't really kick into gear until after midnight. A festive attitude offers a number of taverns and nightclubs to keep you busy until the morning. And when morning comes and you are ready to take up touring Historical sites again.

Madrid Travel Guide

Madrid, the capital of Spain is not only famous for its traditional and aesthetic heritage but is also recognized for its sparkling and vibrant night life.

Museums
A splendid amalgamation of the fine arts of this world and a magnificent accumulation of traditional art is exhibited in the museum Museo del Prado. Unison of the eminent modern arts of the world is exhibited in the museum known as Reina Sofía National Museum and Art Center. National Archaeological Museum gives insight into the sequence of cultures in the history of Spain, for instance Greek, Roman and Iberian history. There is another significantly popular museum that is the best presentation of one of the most finest collections a businessman made in his life time. It includes work from all the major artists of the world and is regarded as one of the best collections that ever existed on the face of this Earth. Other notable museums worth a visit include Real Academia de Bella Artes de San Fernando, Museo de América and Museo de la Ciudad.

Other Places Worth Visiting
Palacio Real; which as its name suggests, is a royal palace that is recognized for precision in aesthetics in the field of its architecture and interior decor. It is also well known for the ornamentation it showcases in its construction. Plaza Mayor is one of the central squares of Madrid and is a very popular tourist attraction because of its strategic importance. Puerta Del Sol is another plaza situated in the core of the existence of Madrid. This is the site where New Year celebrations are held.

Parks and Gardens
El retiro Park is a place where you can retire on a sunny day to take some rest and solitary time, away from the busy streets of Madrid. Boating amenity makes this experience a blissful one, especially if you have kids with you who love this kind of activity. There also exists a small garden that houses baby turtles in its small lake. If you love turtles or lakes, head for it straightaway.

Important Activities to Do When You are in Madrid
Observe the world famous flamenco shows that your friends have boasted of watching with enjoying a hearty meal of traditional Spanish cuisine. Go for the trendy concerts which Madrid is a proud holder of. It would not only mean a party night but also a night full of activity. Movies and films are also a very good method of relaxing and getting entertained at the same time. If you are an enthusiastic soccer supporter then the most important tourist attraction for you is the abode of local football club which has been triumphant in various competitions conducted at international level.

Festival
There is a yearly celebration held in Madrid on which the city is devoid of cars, buses and taxis. It is a phenomenal event because you get to watch herdsman exercising their birth right to round-up their herds and livestock from the hectic streets of the city. It's an event worth viewing, because I do not think we have observed such a scene anywhere in our cities.

Sunday, December 12, 2010

5 Reasons to Visit Barcelona in Spain

Barcelona may not be the capital of Spain but this coastal city is up there with the very best cities in the world, with plenty to offer the visitor. Below to look at ten reasons why Barcelona is a city worth visiting for your vacation or holiday.

1. Barcelona offers a stunning coastline and with beaches stretching for many miles, as far as the eye can see. The beaches as south as Sitges have lovely sandy stretches and in Barcelona itself, there are a number of beaches, including near to the harbour and downtown area.

2. The food is a reason why many people love visiting Spain and cities such as Madrid and Barcelona. Tapas is a word which is known worldwide these days and tapas are a very popular style of food. Tapas in essence are small dishes that you can mix and match and which are relatively cheap. Paella is another Spanish speciality and one which you may wish to try whilst in Barcelona.

3. The weather is another attraction with regards to Barcelona. Even though the winter in Barcelona can be cold and rainy, the months of sunshine tend to be longer than places further North in Europe and the sunshine tends to be more reliable compared to a country such as England. The combination of sunshine, the beaches and the tapas bars, can be enough to attract hourdes of visitors.

4. Sport is another reason why you might want to visit Barcelona. FC Barcelona are known as one of the top football teams worldwide, with players including Ronaldinho, Messi and Thiery Henry. You can usually get tickets for FC Barcelona games at the Nou Camp stadium and this is certainly an experience and one enjoyed by many visitors to this city.

5. Culture is another big reason why Barcelona is worth considering for your holiday. There are a large number of museums, galleries, monuments and other fascinating places of interest. Gaudi is probably the cities most famous ambassador from the past and there are a number of Gaudi buildings which are well worth visiting if you have the chance. The Sagrada Familia is one such attraction: A church which has been over one hundred years being built and is expected to take another 80 years or more to finally complete. You can still go into this unique building and enjoy a fantastic view of the city of Barcelona and at an affordable price.