RAYAN IS SMART

About the destination: Bilbao is the capital of Biscay in the Basque Country, in northern Spain. The city is situated on the banks of the Nervión, a tidal river. Until the 1990s, Bilbao was a large, gray industrial town, serving as the economic heart of the Basque Country. However, since the opening of a new Guggenheim Museum by the river, the city has transformed into an artistic and stylish destination and is now a major tourist attraction. The main draw that put Bilbao on the map was the construction of the Guggenheim Museum by Frank Gehry, which is now one of Spain’s most visited attractions. The building is impressive, and there are some very interesting sculptures outside the museum and in the atrium. Centered on the Plaza Nueva, a busy and colorful square, and the Santiago Cathedral, the old quarter of Bilbao is quite compact, and a walk around its streets doesn't take long. The impressive church of San Nicolas, built in 1743 in honor of the sailors from Bilbao, stands at the entrance to the Casco Viejo. Located in the very heart of Bilbao's old center, the cathedral of Bilbao is the oldest church in the city and the main Gothic construction in Biscay. Vibrant and exciting, Bilbao is famous for its great food, culture, and active nightlife.

About the destination: Bilbao is the capital of Biscay in the Basque Country, in northern Spain. The city is situated on the banks of the Nervión, a tidal river. Until the 1990s, Bilbao was a large, gray industrial town, serving as the economic heart of the Basque Country. However, since the opening of a new Guggenheim Museum by the river, the city has transformed into an artistic and stylish destination and is now a major tourist attraction. The main draw that put Bilbao on the map was the construction of the Guggenheim Museum by Frank Gehry, which is now one of Spain’s most visited attractions. The building is impressive, and there are some very interesting sculptures outside the museum and in the atrium. Centered on the Plaza Nueva, a busy and colorful square, and the Santiago Cathedral, the old quarter of Bilbao is quite compact, and a walk around its streets doesn't take long. The impressive church of San Nicolas, built in 1743 in honor of the sailors from Bilbao, stands at the entrance to the Casco Viejo. Located in the very heart of Bilbao's old center, the cathedral of Bilbao is the oldest church in the city and the main Gothic construction in Biscay. Vibrant and exciting, Bilbao is famous for its great food, culture, and active nightlife.

About the destination: Santander is a sophisticated harbor city that stretches along the northern edge of the stunning Bahía de Santander, offering a vibrant atmosphere with plenty to see and do. It's a place steeped in history, boasting broad streets, appealing architecture, and waterfront dining options. The most popular district in Santander, El Sardinero, was once a highly exclusive vacation destination for the affluent. Today, it maintains a belle-époque charm and is one of the city's most picturesque areas, particularly appreciated for its environmental quality and stunning beaches. The Paseo de Pereda, with its characteristic houses featuring enclosed balconies and its gardens, forms a lively boulevard that separates the coastal strip from Santander's historic quarter. The nearby Cathedral is one of the oldest structures in the capital, with its earliest parts dating back to the 13th century. Beneath the main chapel lies the crypt of El Cristo, a solemn vaulted room where various remnants from the Roman period were found. There are numerous reasons to appreciate this bustling harbor city, from its excellent urban beaches and numerous parks and gardens, to its culinary delights and rich history, making it the ideal gateway.

About the destination: Comillas saw its first settlements in prehistoric times, as evidenced by the La Meaza caves, which feature Paleolithic cave paintings dating back 14,000 years. These were discovered in 1907. Additionally, archaeological sites of a medieval castle have been found in its territory at Peñacastillo. Later on, perfectly integrated into its surroundings, the cemetery (located on the ruins of a fifteenth-century church) stands as one of the most unique symbols of the area, presided over by the remarkable modernist sculpture by Llimona: "The Angel." The Old Town Square, the parish church, and some houses in the village center are excellent examples of 18th-century popular architecture. Other notable buildings date from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a period when Comillas reached its peak economic and social splendor, thanks to the efforts of Antonio López y López, an emigrant to Cuba and founder of the great shipping company "Transatlantic." His financial power and friendship with the Crown earned him the title of the first Marquis of Comillas, a title bestowed by Alfonso XII in 1882. The momentum that the Marquis of Comillas gave to his hometown peaked in the summers of 1881 and 1882, with the presence of the kings, the Court, and the Government. On September 6, 1881, a Council of Ministers was held in the village. During one of these royal vacations, the Marquis installed the first public lighting in Spain. In the Sobrellano area, he built the Sobrellano Palace in a neo-Gothic style, designed by Martorell and Domènech i Muntaner. Next to it is the chapel-pantheon of the same style, and very close by is the modernist palace by the great Catalan architect Antonio Gaudí, known as "El Capricho." Facing this architectural ensemble and the height of the Cardosa stands the Pontifical University in a neo-Gothic style with Moorish influence. Its construction was also funded by Antonio López y López and is distinguished by its size and characteristic red color. It also features excellent coffered wood. The second Marquis created the Pontifical University, although the building was erected by the Jesuits. Don Claudio offered it to the Pope, who granted it the title of Pontifical. Today, the Comillas Foundation is a private nonprofit organization founded in 2005. Its main objective is the implementation, development, and management of a center of excellence dedicated to promoting and specialized teaching of the Spanish language and culture. Comillas is the birthplace of numerous bishops and archbishops, earning it the nickname "Villa of the Archbishops." It was also the birthplace of other illustrious figures like Jesús Cancio, the poet of the sea. The town features a fine sandy beach next to the fishing port. Due to the ecological interest of its coast, it is included in the Oyambre Natural Park. The most popular and well-attended festivals in Comillas are held between July 15 and 18 in honor of Cristo del Amparo.

About the destination: Oviedo is a cathedral city and the capital of the Principality of Asturias, located in Northern Spain. It's an ancient city that offers all the amenities of a modern metropolis. Oviedo's architecture is captivating and appealing, but the city is most famous for its delectable Asturian cuisine. Today, Oviedo has a significant international presence through the Prince of Asturias Awards, which are presented annually at the Campoamor Theatre, and the International Campus, which attracts globally significant figures. The old section of Oviedo is known as the Casco Antiguo. Stroll along its cobblestone streets and admire its beautifully restored buildings and squares. The Plaza de la Constitucion, located in the heart of Oviedo's old quarter, along with Cathedral Square, is the city's most central and significant square. The square is home to the City Hall and the Church of San Isidoro Real, situated at the plaza's western end. Nearby is the equally important Cathedral Square, or Plaza de la Catedral. Its highlights include the Gothic Cathedral of Oviedo, the Jardín de los Reyes Caudillos with statues of the Kings of Asturias, and the baroque Palace Valdecarzana and Heredia. You can also see the statue of Ana Ozores, a main character from Clarin’s novel The Regent's Wife. Oviedo takes pride in its history, but it's also a hub for modern industry and commerce. Upscale boutiques selling high-end clothing, handbags, shoes, and other quality items line the city streets. Oviedo boasts its own stadium, as well as theaters, art galleries, and a university. Public parks and fountains are scattered throughout the city, providing locals with a respite from the hustle and bustle of urban life. Oviedo is a splendid city where the old and the new not only coexist, but thrive together.

About the destination: Since the Middle Ages and continuing to the present day, Santiago de Compostela has been a significant pilgrimage destination. This sacred city was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985. Located in the far northwest of Spain, 100km north of the Portuguese border, Santiago serves as the capital of the autonomous region of Galicia. The city is home to Spain's most renowned church. La Catedral is magnificent, a seamless blend of styles and periods beneath two towering spires. Just inside the main entrance is the Pórtico de la Gloria, one of the most exceptional examples of Romanesque sculpture in Europe. Close to the cathedral is the Museo do Pobo Galego, a museum dedicated to the Galician people, located in the Monasterio de Santo Domingo, which houses replicas of ancient Celtic ruins. Nearly half of Santiago's population consists of lively students eager to have fun. Bars and pubs are scattered throughout the medieval streets of the old town and along Calle Santiago de Chile. The nights in Santiago de Compostela have a unique glow. The moonlight transforms the town into a timeless setting where landmarks highlight the city's most beautiful and nostalgic aspects. And for those seeking a vibrant nightlife, Santiago's nights are endless.

About the destination: Welcome to Madrid, the vibrant heart of Spain! As the capital city, Madrid is a mesmerizing blend of rich history, stunning architecture, and a vibrant cultural scene. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a history buff, or just someone looking to experience the local lifestyle, Madrid offers a plethora of activities and sights that will undoubtedly captivate your senses. Begin your journey at the iconic Puerta del Sol, the bustling central square that serves as the perfect starting point for any exploration. From here, you'll find yourself just a short walk away from some of Madrid's most significant landmarks. Take a leisurely stroll to the Royal Palace, one of the largest and most opulent palaces in Europe, and marvel at its stunning architecture and lavish interiors. Don't forget to visit Almudena Cathedral, located right next to the palace, which offers an impressive contrast of modern and traditional architectural styles. Art lovers should not miss the "Golden Triangle of Art," which includes the Prado Museum, the Reina Sofía Museum, and the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum. The Prado houses masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco, while the Reina Sofía is home to Picasso's Guernica and works by Dalí and Miró. The Thyssen-Bornemisza offers an extensive collection that spans from the Renaissance to the modern era, providing a comprehensive overview of Western art history. No visit to Madrid would be complete without indulging in its culinary delights. Head to a traditional tapas bar and savor a variety of small plates, from patatas bravas to jamón ibérico. For a more substantial meal, try a cocido madrileño, a hearty chickpea stew that's a local favorite. Top off your gastronomic adventure with a visit to one of the city's bustling mercados, such as Mercado de San Miguel, where you can sample fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and delectable pastries. Whether you're here for a weekend getaway or a longer stay, Madrid's dynamic spirit and endless attractions ensure an unforgettable experience.

About the destination: Seville has a unique charm, this vibrant city is filled with enchanting traditional architecture in hues of lemons, plums, and oranges. The Guadalquivir River flows roughly from north to south through Seville. The majority of the city, including the historic district of Barrio de Santa Cruz, is located on the east bank, while the Barrio de Triana is situated on the west bank. At midnight, spontaneous singing, clapping, and guitar playing fill the bars and streets. During the day, the city's diverse heritage becomes evident. The Romans, Moors, Catholic Spaniards, and now, throngs of tourists have all attempted to claim Seville as their own. Indeed, Seville has always managed to ignite the imagination of newcomers. From the outside, the cathedral may not seem impressive; you must enter to truly grasp its size. Huge pillars support the vaulted ceiling, and the abundance of treasure is unbelievably magnificent. Another major attraction of the city is La Giralda, which was the minaret of the Almohad mosque. From the top, there's a spectacular view of the city across the spiked spires and buttresses of the roof. La Torre del Oro, a symbol of the city, originally covered in golden tiles, has been standing guard over the town since 1220. Seville at night is magical, everything takes on a mystical aura that can mesmerize and if you know how to experience it, you will be captivated by its charm.