When we say Spain is full of surprises, we mean it. Beyond the quaint villages and unforgettable dishes you’ll encounter on your travels, the country boasts hidden secrets unbeknownst to those who’ve never experienced it for themselves. There’s lot packed into this small country. From loads of languages (it’s not just Spanish!) to more bars, restaurants, and vineyards you could ever visit in your lifetime, there are all sorts of things you probably don’t know about Spain. Read up on these 10 fun facts about Spain before you go.

Six Official Languageseuskera in dictionary

Spanish is obviously the most widely spoken language in Spain. But there are actually six official languages respected under the constitution, and even more spoken in small areas throughout the country. You’ll notice this particularly when you go to Catalonia, where Catalan is widely spoken and written on signs. Or in the Basque Country, for example, locals speak Euskera, a language with no latin rooms and very mysterious origins. Other official languages include Gallego in Galicia, Valenciano in Valencia, and Aranés in the Valley of Arán in Cataluña.

Small but Mighty

Beach in Ceuta, SpainWhile Spain is a small country (the peninsula is smaller than the state of Texas), there are over 48 million inhabitants. That’s more than any other state in the U.S. Along with the Canary and Balearic Islands, Spain’s territory also stretches into Morocco. Ceuta and Melia are the two autonomous communities (like small states) in the northern part of Morocco that are technically Spanish.

Long Miles of Coastline

Coast of Spain in SantanderSpain boasts almost 5,000 miles of coastline, touching both the Mediterranean and the Atlantic Oceans. Not only that, but these coastlines vary drastically from one area to the other—bracing rocky cliffs in the north, volcanic sands on the Canary Islands, and turquoise waters all along the Mediterranean.

National Anthem Without Lyrics

Spaniards sing national anthem watching game Spain’s national anthem actually has no lyrics. Attempts have been made to add words to the song but no one can ever seem to agree on them. Instead, Spaniards either hum quietly to themselves or more commonly, sing “lo lo lo” along with the rhythm. To tune in, turn on the start to a Spanish soccer game and hum your own “lo lo lo.”

Leading Producer of Olive Oil

Green olives on tree in Span Spain produces more olive oil than any other country in the world, churning out about half the world’s total olive oil. About 46% is exported, also making it the largest exporter of olive oil in the world. The majority is produced in the south of Spain. To learn more, ask us about incorporating a tasting with an olive expert or a visit to a grove.

High Amount of Bars Per Capita

People at restaurant outside near the beachSpain has one of the highest concentrations of bars and restaurants per capita. In Europe, Spain is said to be the country with the most businesses in the pubs, bars, and coffee shops industry. It’s debatable as to whether or not it really has the most bars per capita (bars in Spain also include tapas bars and casual restaurants), but regardless, you’re bound to notice a plethora of dining and drinking options in every corner of the country.

Oldest Restaurant is the World

Dining room of El Botín restaurant in Madrid It’s no surprise then that Spain is home to the oldest restaurant. Open since 1725, Madrid’s Botín holds the Guinness World Record for oldest restaurant in the world. And with a wood-fired oven churning out roasted lamb, savory stews, and crisped suckling pig, it also happens to be one of the best restaurants in the city. Which is why we always snag a reservation for our clients on their tour of Spain’s capital city.

Nudity on Beaches

Crowded rocky cove in SpainHead to any beach in Spain and you’ll probably be surprised at the amount of topless women lounging in the sand. Head down the beach into more secluded coves or remote areas, and you’ll also notice a strong nudist culture. While a swimsuit is required in pools or at beach bars, it’s perfectly legal to be topless on any beach in Spain and nude in certain areas. In Spain there are about 450 nudist beaches. This phenomenon can be attributed to a combination of Spain’s vibrant arts community, European tourists—some of the first to frequent the coast when the country opened up after the Civil War, as well as the sexual revolution that commenced at the fall of the dictatorship.

One of the Highest Life Expectancies

elderly couple walking in village in Spain Spain has one of the highest life expectancies in the world, coming in at 6th according to US News. Life expectancy in Spain is 83.1 years, while the U.S. for example, ranks 20th at 77.4 years. What’s their secret? Is it the Mediterranean diet? The moderate climate? A vibrant social life and work-life balance? The only way to find out is to see it for yourself.

Most Vineyards in the World

vineyard in SpainSpain has the largest area of land dedicated to producing wine, with over 4,000 wineries occupying over 960,00 hectares (about 2,300,000 acres). Does this prioritization of wine-making agriculture attribute to its high life expectancy? Come open up a bottle and find out!

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