Spain is one of the few countries where there is strictly speaking no tourist season. Visitors go there in droves, in all months of the year, drawn by the different attractions of the regions. With such amazing history and cultural diversity, Spain remains to be one of the most popular holiday destinations, forever drawing holidaymakers with its interesting character and unique charms.

The Spanish Architecture

If you look at Spain’s architectural styles you’ll see that they are heavily influenced by the designs of North Africa, France and Italy. But all these influences have been reinterpreted in a distinctively Spanish style, giving the structures their own unique look that’s not seen elsewhere in the world.

Moorish Architecture

Moorish architecture is very dominant in Southern Spain, with one of the great examples being the Salon de Embajadores in the Alhamba, Granada. It is known for its intricate interiors and lavish designs based on geometry, calligraphy and plant motifs.

Romanesque Architecture

Romanesque architecture, which you will typically see in churches, can be seen in Catalonia and along the pilgrim paths to Santiago, such as the Sant Climent church at Tauell in the Vall de Boi. It’s characterized by round arches and massive walls.

Gothic Architecture

Gothic architecture was influenced by France in the late 12th century, with little improvisations added, except for pointed arches, external buttresses, higher vaults and taller windows. One excellent example of such style is the Leon Cathedral in Castilla Y Leon. It is known for having the finest display of stained glass in Spain and is also admired for its vaulting which supports the archways and illuminates the interior. Renaissance architecture is often identifid by its symmetrical features and round arches. A good example of this is the Hostal de San Marcos in Leon. Baroque architecture was propelled by the need for drama and movement, thus explaining the twisting columns, extravagant decorations, and exuberant sculptures. You may want to see one of the examples of this, at Museo Municipal in Madrid.

Modernisme Architecture

Modernisme architecture is best described as the Catalan interpretation of the Art Nouveau style. It is spearheaded by Spain’s most well known architect, Antoni Gaudi. The best Modernisme examples can be seen in Barcelona, where the works of Gaudi are found all over the city. These buildings are well known for their dream-like qualities, which provide an almost surrealistic feel to them, yet are nevertheless very functional. Prime examples of this kind of construction are two of Gaudi’s greatest works, the Casa Mila with its ripple-effect walls and the Sagrada Familia, Europe’s most unconventional church. Gaudi is buried in one of its crypts.