12 Facts About Spain You Didn’t Know!

In the south of Europe lies a large chunk of plateau surrounded by a range of mountains and beaches, graciously named as the country of Spain. This picturesque and alluring country has several interesting customs and ideas about certain things, from quirky facts about Spain, like legal nudity, to constitutional monarchy. Let's knuckle down to some interesting and cool facts about Spain.

Facts About Spain

You can never know enough about Spain, and trust me when I say this: Spain is not only about sun, sand, and siestas. The country has a heap of other fascinating facts stored under its unforeseen climate changes. Let's embark on a quest to adventures through some really cool facts about Spain.

1. Eat 12 Grapes At New Years

"Las doce uvas de la suerte", or "The twelve grapes of luck", is an original Spanish tradition. It is a custom to eat grapes when the clock strikes 12. By doing so, one welcomes good fortune and prosperity in the new year. This fun fact about Spain expresses the optimism and zest of the natives as they enter a new year. 

2. Spanish People Live For Long

Another one of the amazing facts about Spain is that it has the second-highest life expectancy of all the EU countries. Spain accommodates people who have successfully reached the age of 83 and above. According to an estimate, by 2050, Spain will have the oldest population in the world. By then, over 30% of the population will be aged 60 and above. 

3. Europe's Second Highest Unemployment Rate

In 2019, Spain appeared on the list of highest unemployment rates in the entire EU after Greece. Today, Spain's employment rate is 52%, which is far better than the previous few years. Another one of the facts about Spain's economy is that it's mainly dependent on tourism and the building sector, which has lowered its economy. 

4. The First Novel Was Written in Spanish

Taking about amazing facts about Spain, the first ever modern novel in the world written by Miguel de Cervantes was presented in 1605. The book today is looked upon as one of the most important pieces of literature in the Spanish language. The novel, better known as Don Quixote, has been translated into 140 languages and is the eighth most translated book in the world.

5. Home To 47 UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Did you know that Spain has the third-largest number of UNESCO sites in the world? This interesting fact reflects the country's rich history and architecture, which include historic cities, cathedrals, and more.

6. Nudity Is Legal In Spain

Nudity is indecent and considered inappropriate in most parts of the world, but not in Spain. It is a normal practice in Spain to strip off clothes during hot and dry days. The country has 3000 hours of sunshine in a year, so why not go out for a good tan? Isn't this one of the most quirky yet mind-blowing facts about Spain? Explore the best beaches in Spain to get some tan on!

7. La Tomatina Festival 

While mentioning some cool facts about Spain, the Tomatina Festival must make it to the top of the list. Buñol, a province in Valencia, celebrates the world-renowned La Tomatina Festival. Every year people from Spain as well as outside gather in a town to throw quashed tomatoes around town. A total of 150,000 or more tomatoes are used at the festival, marking a touch of fun and celebration in the country.

8. Spain Has The World's Oldest Restaurant

Another one of the most interesting facts about Spain is that it is home to the world's oldest restaurant. The eatery has been up and serving since 1725 and aces their delicious signature dish of Cochinillos asado. The restaurant named - Botin is a major hotspot for tourists and locals since it has earned its way into an Ernest Hemingway novel and the book Fortunata y Jacinta by Benito Pérez Galdós.

9. The Sun Never Sets In The Spain Empire

Yes, you read that right! Here is another fact about Spain that will leave you astonished. This phrase describes the Roman Empire and its territorial range, which always seemed like daytime was being experienced in at least one part of its territory. This takes us back to how the Roman Empire conquered most of Europe and America. 

10. The Tooth Fairy Called Ratoncito Pérez

When children in Spain lose a tooth, they keep it under their pillow for a magical mouse called Ratoncito Pérez. Like the tooth fairy in other parts of the world, the mouse leaves money and gifts in exchange for a tooth. Ratoncito Pérez is basically a fantasy figure of early childhood Spanish and Hispanic cultures. 

11. Largest LGBTQ Friendly Society 

Did you know? According to the European Social Survey, almost 80% of the general population agrees that bisexuals should be free to live their own lives. This percentage is comparatively less than 40% of Croatians, Lithuanians, and Russians. Among other facts about Sapin, the country went out of its way when it legalised same-sex marriage in 2005.

12. Football Fantasy

This interesting fact about Spain is known to all: The Spanish are renowned for football. For example, La Roja topped FIFA's world rankings for over five years between 2008 and 2013. During that time, the country won the World Cup in 2010 and the European championships in 2008 and 2012. 

That said, we have explored some of the most interesting facts about Spain. The country itself is a whole new realm with intellectual people and great art. Its history, which it carries forward to the present while respecting the new norms of the 21st century, is truly amazing. You could also tap into the culture in Spain to look at their heritage and customs.