Spaniards

Spaniards are a Romance ethnic group and nation native to Spain. They predominantly speak Spanish, also known as Castilian, which is the official language of the country. Spain is located on the Iberian Peninsula in southwestern Europe.

The term "Spaniards" encompasses a diverse population with varying regional identities, including Andalusians, Aragonese, Asturians, Basques (Euskaldunak), Canarians, Cantabrians, Castilians, Catalans, Extremadurans, Galicians, Leonese, Majorcans, Murcians, and Valencians. While most Spaniards share a common national identity and language, some regions have their own distinct languages, cultures, and histories, leading to strong regional loyalties alongside a shared Spanish identity. These languages include Catalan, Basque, and Galician, which are co-official languages in their respective autonomous communities.

Spanish history is rich and complex, dating back to pre-Roman times. The Iberian Peninsula has been influenced by numerous civilizations, including the Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Visigoths, and Moors. The Reconquista, a centuries-long effort to reclaim the peninsula from Moorish rule, culminated in 1492, the same year Christopher Columbus's voyage, sponsored by the Spanish Crown, initiated the Spanish colonization of the Americas.

Spanish culture is diverse and vibrant, known for its contributions to art, literature, music, dance, and cuisine. Famous Spaniards include artists such as Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalí, and Francisco Goya; writers such as Miguel de Cervantes, Federico García Lorca, and Gabriel García Márquez; and scientists such as Santiago Ramón y Cajal. Spanish cuisine is renowned for its paella, tapas, jamón, and wine. Flamenco dance and music are also iconic symbols of Spanish culture.

The majority religion in Spain is Christianity, specifically Roman Catholicism, although there is increasing religious diversity.