Spain has a rich and proud history with inputs from many cultures, including the ancient Roman and Muslim influences. Regional variations are noticeable in the history, language, and cuisine of Spain. Many dialects and regional languages can be heard throughout the country. Castellano, or Castillian, is the main language. Catalan is used in the north, with regional variations, such as Valencia, which is spoken in Valencia, and Galician, spoken in Galicia.
Catholicism is the major religion, with over 75% of the population identifying themselves as Catholic believers. From that group, most rarely go to church. Today, Spain is a mainly secular country, which may explain the high level of support for gay marriage; same-sex marriage has been allowed since 2005.
Spanish holidays are a mix of the secular and the religious. Holy Week, celebrated the week before Easter, is the most important holiday and is celebrated widely. Patron saints are honoured in celebrations in towns and villages with parades, fireworks, bullfights and parties. ‘San Fermin’ is the festival that is celebrated each July in Pamplona when bulls are released into the streets as people run with them. Bullfights take place from early spring through mid-autumn, generally on Sunday. In Barcelona and Madrid, they may also take place on Thursdays. Fights begin with a parade and end with a cheering crowd and a few dead bulls.
Spaniards are proud of the contributions they have made in the arts, including literature, architecture, and film. In terms of music, Spain has produced a host of influential classical musicians, including Placido Domingo and Jose Carreras.
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