See Why Spain Offers So Much More Than Its Gorgeous Beaches

Most people flock to this gem of a Mediterranean nation for its gorgeous coastline studded with pristine, golden beaches, and for good reason. However, there are a huge range of incredible attractions on offer inland too. Here are some of the sights you just have to witness when taking a trip to Spain.

1. Basilica of the Sagrada Familia (Barcelona)

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Beyond its stunning and unique architectural beauty, the Basilica is a famous sightseeing destination in Spain due to the fact that it remains unfinished, even though construction began during the first few years of the 20th Century. The Basilica follows the same basic outline of most other Western European cathedrals that are popular with sightseeing tourists, but it takes a unique twist on these classical styles, creating a sightseeing experience that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. Many of the sightseeing visitors to Spain who visit the Basilica are amazed by the incredible detail in its decorating facades and frescoes.

The pride of Barcelona, the Sagrada Familia is a spectacular architectural marvel in the heart of the city. Although the basilica first started construction in the early 20th century, much of it is still unfinished today, mostly due to the breathtaking,

2. Salamanca

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A beautiful, picturesque city in the west of the country, Salamanca has a strong place in Spanish history with its historic old town and university that's been in use since the 13th century. Some of its most magnificent structures include the Salamanca cathedral which towers over the center of the city and the Plaza Mayor, a huge square surrounded by traditional Spanish baroque style architecture.

3. Ronda

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This incredible town is perched at the top of a rocky mountain in southern Spain, with stunning views all around the surrounding area. The city is famed particularly for its huge stone bridge traversing across a dramatic gorge connecting the mountain city together. Enjoy the incredible rocky scenery and views deep down into the gorge along with walking around the quaint narrow Spanish streets and white-washed buildings of the town,

4. Mezquita Cathedral de Cordoba (Córdoba)

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The Mezquita Cathedral de Cordoba is a mosque-turned-cathedral built in Spain's Andalusia region. Originally a Moorish mosque, it was later converted into the cathedral for Corboda after the successful reconquest of the Iberian Peninsula. This stunning feat of construction is seen as one of the finest examples of Moorish architecture in the world. The most notable feature of which being the 600 columns made from a wide variety of rare stones, all supporting the ornate columns that give this location its defining character.

5. Park Guell (Barcelona)

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The masterpiece of celebrated artist Antoni Gaudi, Park Guell is a beautiful, charming collection of mosaics and structures that looks like it came straight out of a fairy tail. The spot is incredibly picturesque during sunset as the light shines over the colorful mosaics that cover the park. Apart from the beautiful structures and artwork in the park, you'll also find a museum, church, fountains and pathways surrounded by greenery and wildlife.

6. The Alhambra (Granada)

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This incredible royal palace in Granada is one of the most picturesque sights in the country and one of the only palaces built by the Islamic Caliphate that's still standing today. The Alhambra was first constructed in the 9th century, the buildings were later renovated to showcase the Sultans' cultural influence and military might. The palace shines as a beacon of Islamic culture where most of the history and influence has been lost.

7. Plaza de Espana (Sevilla)

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Easily the most impressive of all the 'plazas' in the country, the Plaza de Espana is an incredible, vast mix of various styles of Spanish architecture creating a highly unique stretch of buildings. The centerpiece to the plaza is a beautiful central building filled with inner rooms and courtyards along with a wide range of artwork and statues showcasing the rich history and culture of Spain.

8. El Torcal de Antequera

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Also known by some as the Pancake Mountains of Spain for the strange rock formations found here, El Torcal de Antequera is an impressive karst landscape formed over millions of years. The mountainous area makes for a great hiking spot as you twist between the impressive rocky alleys and unique structures. It's also a great place for free climbing practice due to the pancake like shape to many of the rock formations giving easy hand grips.

9. Alcázar of Seville

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A beautiful masterpiece of architecture, the Alcázar of Seville is a royal palace built in the 14th century and a wonderful example of mudéjar architecture, Moorish-influenced Christian architecture. The grounds of the palace are stunning and feature a complex maze of incredible Islamic-style mosaics, patterns and courtyards along with some picturesque gardens fit for a king.

Conclusion

With a fascinating blend of ancient Christian and Islamic heritage, as well as its unique twist on modern art and architecture, Spain is packed full of gorgeous, quaint towns and intriguing, vibrant cities. Along with being home to some of the most mouth-watering dishes around the Mediterranean, this beautiful nation is a perfect destination to discover the charms of Europe.

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