29 Mind-Blowing Facts About Spain You Probably Didn't Know!

Madrid’s Sobrino de Botín, founded in 1725, holds the Guinness World Record for the world’s oldest continuously operating restaurant. Even Ernest Hemingway mentioned it in The Sun Also Rises!

A fun fact, the first stapler was made in the 18th century in the Basque Country, specially crafted for King Louis XV of France. Next time you use a stapler, think of Spain!

I only found out recently that instead of the Tooth Fairy, Spanish children leave their teeth under their pillow for Ratoncito Pérez, a friendly mouse who collects teeth and leaves money.

Despite the famous siesta stereotype, Spaniards actually sleep one hour less than the European average because their time zone is set an hour ahead of where it should be. Spain should be in the same time zone as Portugal and the UK, but Franco changed it in WWII.

With nearly 5,000 km of coastline, Spain is a beach lover’s paradise. It also has the most Blue Flag beaches in the world, meaning they meet the highest environmental and quality standards.

Spain’s “Marcha Real” is one of the few national anthems in the world without official lyrics. There have been multiple attempts to add them, but none have stuck!

Spain boasts an impressive collection of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, ranking among the top countries globally. With 50 recognized landmarks, the nation’s rich cultural tapestry spans diverse periods and styles, including breathtaking architecture, ancient archaeological sites, and stunning natural landscapes. Iconic sites such as Antoni Gaudí's masterpieces in Barcelona, the historic cities of Toledo and Córdoba, and the spectacular Alhambra in Granada reflect Spain's deep historical legacy and artistic achievements, drawing millions of visitors each year to explore its heritage treasures.

Spanish is the world's second-most spoken native language, with approximately 485 million native speakers, surpassed only by Mandarin Chinese. Its widespread presence across continents, especially in Latin America, Europe, and parts of the United States, is a direct legacy of Spain's historical influence. Beyond native speakers, millions more worldwide speak Spanish as a second language, cementing its global significance as a vital language of international communication, trade, and culture.

Being one of the world's most iconic musical instruments, the guitar originated in Spain. It dates back centuries, evolving from vihuela and guitarra latina during medieval and Renaissance periods. Over time, Spain became the center of guitar craftsmanship and artistry with classical, flamenco, and folk traditions and styles. Today, the guitar remains synonymous with Spanish culture, symbolizing the country's rich musical heritage and global artistic influence.

I feel that olive oil makes everything taste better! Spain is the largest olive oil producer on the planet, with Andalusia alone producing more than Italy and Greece combined!

Originating from Asturias, Cabrales is a semi-hard, intensely flavored blue cheese. It gained international attention when a 2 kg block sold for a staggering €10,250 per kilogram (approximately $11,393 or £9,307), setting a world record. This astonishing price is a testament of the cheese's exceptional quality, traditional production methods, and its highly prized status among gourmet enthusiasts worldwide.

​The Spanish Jamón Ibérico de Bellota is the world's most exquisite and expensive hams. It is crafted from free-range Iberian pigs feasting primarily on acorns. This diet imparts a unique, rich flavor to the meat. The curing process often extends beyond 36 months, contributing to its exceptional taste and texture.

​The most expensive leg of ham was sold in 2020 for ¥1,429,000 (approximately $13,183 or €12,103). It was produced by the renowned Spanish ham producer Sierra Mayor Jabugo, famous for crafting premium, limited-edition Iberian hams that undergo lengthy aging periods, resulting in their exceptional quality, flavor, and value.

Miguel de Cervantes' 'Don Quixote' (1605) is considered the first modern novel and one of the most influential books ever written.

The Caminito del Rey, a narrow cliffside walkway in Málaga, was once known as the world’s most dangerous path before being restored in 2015.

Every year, the town of Buñol hosts La Tomatina, a massive food fight where thousands of people throw over 100,000 kilos of tomatoes at each other!

Spain’s Christmas Lottery (El Gordo) is the largest lottery in the world, with prize money often exceeding €2 billion. Adding to this, there is 1 in 10 chance of winning something!

The Altamira Caves in Cantabria contain cave paintings over 36,000 years old, making them some of the earliest human art ever discovered.

At its peak in the 16th and 17th centuries, the Spanish Empire stretched across Europe, the Americas, Africa, and Asia, making it one of the largest empires in history.

The Spanish monarchy dates back over 1,000 years, making it one of the longest-running royal families in Europe. King Felipe VI is the current monarch.

The Tabernas Desert in Almería is Europe’s only true desert, famous for being the filming location of classic Western movies like The Good, the Bad and the Ugly.

This tennis-like sport, played on small courts with walls, was invented in Spain and has exploded in popularity, with over 20,000 courts nationwide.

Spain hosts La Tomatina (tomato fight), San Fermín (Running of the Bulls), and Haro Wine Festival (where people throw wine at each other), making it a country of wild celebrations.

Spain has one of the highest life expectancies in the world, about 83 years on average thanks to healthy Mediterranean food, a relaxed lifestyle, and strong family connections.

Spain has over 260,000 bars, which means there's one bar for every 175 people, more than anywhere else in Europe!

Spain’s shortest-reigning monarch, King Amadeo I, ruled for only 7 months in 1871 before abdicating out of frustration with Spanish politics. He called the country "ungovernable" and left!

With over 83 million tourists per year, Spain is one of the most-visited country in the world!

There’s a mysterious pyramid in Tenerife called the Pyramids of Güímar, which some claim was built by ancient civilizations. Others believe it was simply an agricultural structure from the 19th century.

The world’s largest paella was cooked in Valencia in 2001, measuring 21 meters wide (69 feet) and feeding 110,000 people!

Pheasant Island is an uninhabited river island located in the Bidasoa river, located between France and Spain. It has a unique treaty where ownership alternates every six months! Spain controls it from February to July, and France takes over from August to January. There are no pheasants on the island.