Spain

Spain occupies most of the Iberian Peninsula in south-western Europe and is the third largest country in Europe, covering over half a million sq kms. Spain is dominated by the central plain, which is surrounded on the north, south and west by mountain ranges. The south-east is relatively infertile and requires irrigation. More than a quarter of the entire population lives in the Madrid or Barcelona districts. Tourism, wool production and wine provide income.

The climate covers a broad range of conditions. On the northern and eastern seaboards, coastal conditions prevail. The continental plateau varies in temperature according to altitude. Rainfall increases markedly in the mountainous regions. Temperatures in Madrid vary between 5°C in January and 25°C in July.