For a brief spell, Spain was Europe's top dog - possibly even World Power #1, but soon began a prolonged period of decline with the result that, apart perhaps from Catalonia, it was seen as something of backwater. In recent decades it has made a remarkable political and economic recovery, and living standards are rapidly approaching the same level as those of most other countries in Western Europe.

Since the 1950s Spain has become an immensely popular holiday destination. As far as I know, it was initially mainly Britons attracted by glorious beaches, fine weather and (in those days) a very favourable exchange rate, which made it cheap.

There is also plenty that is of interest to tourists looking for art and architecture, not least Barcelona, Cordoba, Seville, many smaller towns and cities, and of course, Madrid.

I had the pleasure of visiting Barcelona and Majorca. It was a great experience. Was able to see the museums of Picasso and Dali and enjoyed the wonderful culture and friendly people.

I've been to Spain four times. I have relatives in Madrid. It is really a beautiful country. Every time we went, we visited different places and every time it was a beautiful experience.

In Madrid, we visited El Prado museum, among other places. Very beautiful museum, and so many important paintings!

One of the things I found curious was that one time my family and I were walking in Madrid and we approached a man who was passing by to ask for directions and he said that by the way we walked and moved, he could tell we were Argentinians I thought it was funny.

I think the places I liked the most, besides Madrid, were Salamanca, Toledo and Seville.

Oh! and the weather is very nice too. We went three times in the summer (very, very hot) and one time in winter and we got to see snow!

A couple of questions on Spain.

#1. Why is regionalism so strong in some parts of Spain? In the case of the Basque region it is quite understandable, but how about elsewhere? Does it having anything to do with the fact that much of the country is moutainous, and that before (perhaps even after) the construction of railways internal communcations were poor? Is this just one of many reasons?

#2. When and why did Spain embark on its long decline from International "Top Dog" to a backwater? Did it start with foolish and expensive military adventures in the C16 - with the ultimately unsuccessful attempt to annex much of North Africa and the disastrous attempt to invade England? It seems that the decline in Europe began very soon after the country was unified ... and while it was expanding its empire in the Americas.

Underterred by the lack of response to Spain, the moderators are going to continue "Country of the Month" ...

Ah..Spain. My favourite holiday destination (away from the Costa's anyway). Sunshine, Sangria, Castanettes, Bull fights (if you're into blood sports), San Miguel beer, Kalamari, Paella, General Franco (if you're into right-wing dictators), Civil Guardia, Don Quixote, The Alhambra Palace, Manuel (he's from Barcelona) and Real Madrid.
I know Spain went a bit downhill after getting all that Inca gold stolen off them (nice one Sir Francis!) and getting muscled out of the slave trade,
but I have a soft spot for Spain. Sorry I haven't really answered the above, but this just my view on Spain.