Andalusia is an autonomous community of Spain. It is the most populous and the second largest, in terms of its land area, of the seventeen autonomous communities that constitute the Spanish nation. Its capital is Seville.
Andalusia is probably one of the best known regions of Spain as this dry, mountainous region embraces the Costa del Sol. The landscape is as diverse as its culture, extending from the warm Guadalquivir valley to the low mountain areas and volcanic landscapes, such as the Tabernas Desert.
Andalusia is one of the warmest regions in Europe and has a temperate, Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters. More than 18% of the region is protected land with a vast network of parks and reserves. The 22 National Parks range from mountainous regions to coastal areas and the best known are the Doñana National Park, the Grazalema, the Sierra de las Nieves and the Sierra Bermeja.
Wherever you find yourself in Andalusia, you will be certain of one thing: a warm, friendly welcome. The people of Andalusia are renowned for their easy-going and embracing nature.
Visitors to Andalusia will find a varied offering, from golden beaches to beautiful mountain ranges with their intriguing fauna, and the famous "white villages" with their abundant folklore and art. Andalusia is a land of great traditions: it is the "mother" of the type of Spanish folklore that is probably best known abroad, such as the magic of Flamenco in its most authentic style, and the myths of Don Juan and Carmen.
