Spanish History - Valencia Costa Blanca

Spanish History

Separated from western Europe by the Pyrenees and from Africa by the Strait of Gibraltar, the Iberian Peninsula (occupied by Spain and Portugal) was long an attractive target for expanding Mediterranean empires and greedy outsiders.

Spain’s history is a captivating saga of diverse civilizations, conquests, and cultural exchanges that have shaped its rich and complex identity over millennia. From ancient Iberian tribes to the height of imperial power and the challenges of modernity, Spain’s historical narrative is a mosaic of resilience, innovation, and global influence.

Ancient Iberia and Roman Conquest

The history of Spain begins with its indigenous peoples, including the Iberians and Celts, who inhabited the Iberian Peninsula as early as 3000 BCE. The Iberians, known for their advanced metallurgy and artistry, coexisted with the Celts, who brought agricultural advancements and further enriched the region’s cultural diversity.

In 218 BCE, the Roman Republic initiated its conquest of the Iberian Peninsula, known as Hispania. Over the following centuries, Roman influence permeated the region, bringing with it governance, infrastructure, and cultural integration. The Romans built roads, aqueducts, and cities such as Tarraco (modern-day Tarragona) and Emerita Augusta (present-day Mérida), which became vital hubs of Roman civilization in Hispania.

Visigothic Kingdom and Islamic Rule

Following the decline of the Western Roman Empire in the 5th century CE, the Visigoths, a Germanic tribe, established their kingdom in Spain. This era saw the consolidation of Christianity as the dominant religion and the blending of Roman and Germanic traditions. However, in 711 CE, Islamic forces from North Africa, led by Tariq ibn Ziyad, crossed the Strait of Gibraltar and initiated the Islamic conquest of the Iberian Peninsula. The Islamic rule, known as Al-Andalus, flourished for over seven centuries, leaving a lasting imprint on Spain’s culture, architecture, language, and scientific advancements.

Cities like Cordoba and Toledo became renowned centers of learning and cultural exchange in the Islamic world, showcasing Spain’s pivotal role in medieval Europe.

Reconquista and Unification

The Reconquista, a prolonged campaign by Christian kingdoms to reclaim the Iberian Peninsula from Muslim rule, began in the 8th century and lasted until 1492, when the last Muslim stronghold of Granada fell to the Catholic Monarchs, Ferdinand II of Aragon and Isabella I of Castile. This event marked the completion of Spain’s unification and laid the foundation for its emergence as a global power.

The Golden Age and Imperial Expansion

Spain’s Golden Age, spanning the 16th and 17th centuries, was marked by unprecedented cultural flourishing, economic prosperity, and imperial expansion. The discovery of the Americas by Christopher Columbus in 1492 opened new avenues for exploration and colonization, leading to the establishment of vast overseas territories in the Americas, Africa, Asia, and the Pacific. Spanish explorers and conquistadors, such as Hernán Cortés and Francisco Pizarro, played pivotal roles in expanding Spain’s influence and wealth, making it the dominant European power of the era.

Modern Challenges and Contemporary Spain

The 19th and 20th centuries brought significant challenges to Spain, including political instability, civil wars, and transitions between monarchy, republicanism, and dictatorship. The Spanish Civil War (1936-1939) was a particularly turbulent period, culminating in Francisco Franco’s dictatorship, which lasted until his death in 1975.

Since the restoration of democracy, Spain has undergone profound social, economic, and political transformations. It has become a leading member of the European Union, embraced multiculturalism, and revitalized its regional identities while preserving its rich cultural heritage.

Spain’s history is a testament to its resilience, adaptability, and enduring influence on world affairs. From its ancient origins and Roman conquest to the heights of imperial power and the challenges of modernity, Spain’s journey has shaped its vibrant cultural tapestry and global reputation. Today, Spain continues to celebrate its diverse heritage while embracing the opportunities and challenges of the 21st century, making it a fascinating destination with a profound historical legacy.

Today Spain enjoys a very positive reputation with worldwide travellers, and is one of the most visited countries on the planet.

Spanish History Timeline

1100 BC. Phoenician traders establish colony at Cádiz in southern Iberia.
228 BC. Carthaginians occupy southern and eastern Iberia.
218-220 BC. Romans defeat Carthage in Second Punic War and occupy Iberian peninsula.
74. Inhabitants of Iberia are granted full Roman citizenship.
409. Visigoths occupy Iberian peninsula.
711. Combined Arab and Berber force from northern Africa cross Strait of Gibraltar to occupy Iberian peninsula.
756. Independent Emirate is established in Iberia, with Córdoba as its capital.
913. Having re-taken territories in northern Spain, Christians establish capital in León.
1013. Powerful Caliphate of Córdoba breaks up due to internal strife; Moorish Spain split into small feuding kingdoms.
1212. Decisive Christian victory at battle of Navas de Tolosa spells the beginning of the end of Moorish rule in Spain.
1492. King Fernando and Queen Isabels army capture Granada after a long siege, the final defeat of the Moors in Spain. Jews are forced to convert to Christianity; those who refuse are expelled from Spain. Christopher Columbus sets sail on his voyage of discovery.
1702-14. War of Spanish Succession. Bourbon dynasty accedes to Spanish throne.
1808-14. Peninsular War. Spaniards rise against Napoleons occupying force. Combination of guerilla tactics and support from Wellingtons army end in French defeat.
1898. Spanish American War. Spain loses Cuba and Philippines.
1931. Spanish king is forced to abdicate. Spain becomes a republic.
1936-39. Spanish Civil War. Bloody conflict ends with General Francos victory. Dictatorship established.
1975. Franco dies, Juan Carlos de Borbón is proclaimed king. Spain becomes constitutional monarchy. Democracy would bring membership of the European Community.
1982. Spain joins NATO, becoming a member of a mainstream European organization.
1995. Spain joins the European Community.
2004. Islamic terrorists strike the Atocha train station in Madrid with bombs, killing nearly 300 and precipitating a change in government.