Spain

Spain is located in southwestern Europe and occupies most of the Iberian Peninsula. Covering approximately 506,000 square kilometers, it is bordered by France and Andorra to the northeast, Portugal to the west, and the Mediterranean Sea and Atlantic Ocean along much of its coastline. Spain also includes the Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean Sea, the Canary Islands in the Atlantic Ocean, and the autonomous cities of Ceuta and Melilla in North Africa. The country's geography is highly varied, featuring extensive plateaus, mountain ranges, river valleys, and coastal plains. The Meseta Central, a large elevated plateau, dominates the interior, while mountain systems such as the Pyrenees, Cantabrian Mountains, Central System, and Sierra Nevada shape much of the landscape. Spain's major rivers include the Ebro, Tagus, Duero, Guadiana, and Guadalquivir. Climatic conditions vary considerably, ranging from oceanic climates in the north to Mediterranean climates along the eastern and southern coasts and semi-arid conditions in parts of the southeast.

Agriculture is an important component of Spain's economy and has been shaped by the country's diverse climates and landscapes. The Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, is particularly favorable for a wide range of crops. Spain is one of Europe's leading agricultural producers and exporters. Major crops include cereals such as wheat and barley, as well as olives, grapes, citrus fruits, vegetables, almonds, and sunflowers. Olive cultivation is especially significant, and Spain is the world's largest producer of olive oil. Vineyards are widespread across the country, supporting a globally recognized wine industry.

Livestock farming also plays a major role in Spanish agriculture. Pig farming is particularly important, making Spain one of Europe's leading pork producers, while cattle, sheep, and poultry are raised in various regions. Intensive greenhouse agriculture is concentrated in southeastern Spain, especially in the province of Almería, where vegetables are produced year-round for domestic and international markets.
Spanish agriculture faces several challenges, including water scarcity, soil degradation, and the increasing impacts of climate change. Prolonged droughts and rising temperatures have placed pressure on water resources, particularly in southern and eastern regions. In response, Spain has invested in modern irrigation systems, water conservation measures, and sustainable agricultural practices to improve efficiency and resilience. With its favorable climate, advanced farming technologies, and strong export sector, Spain remains one of the most productive and influential agricultural countries in Europe.

Gerold first visited Spain in 1983 with Barbara on the way to Portugal, travelling through France and Andorra. Costa Brava felt overly touristic, Barcelona was exciting, and Madrid rather dull in the post-Franco period. In the 1990s, he visited the Canary Islands three times with Klaudia. In 1992 they stayed in Las Palmas, where he recovered from a trip to Sudan. A later family trip in 1993 was lively but sometimes stressful, while a 1997 trip to Lanzarote and Fuerteventura was relaxing. In 2004, Gerold visited Madrid on an official trip focused on organic farming. The city had changed significantly, and the programme was professional and well organised. In 2018, he returned twice to Spain, including Barcelona and a short stop in Madrid. In 2023, Gerold and Klaudia visited the Valencia region, Almería’s greenhouse area, and the Alhambra in Granada, which was a highlight. In 2025/26 Gerold and Klaudia have spent 12 days on La Palma.