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His reign (1516–56) left Spain nearly bankrupt, but with cultural legacies such as his palace in Granada (see Palacio de Carlos V).

The American writer was a newspaper correspondent in Spain during the Civil War. For Whom the Bell Tolls is based on his Andalucían experiences.

Now a part of Seville University, this handsome 18th-century edifice is the second-largest building in Spain, after El Escorial in Madrid. Famous for its fun-loving female workers, who at one time rolled three-quarters of Europe’s cigars, the old factory has been immortalized by Carmen , the world’s most popular opera. The doomed heroine, a hot-blooded gypsy cigarrera, remains, for many, the incarnation of Spanish passion.

The Granada-born writer (1898–1936) was also an artist, musician, theatre director and more. Homosexual and Socialist too, he was murdered by Franco’s Nationalists at the start of the Spanish Civil War. His work shows his love for Andalucían culture.

A native of Seville, this left-wing leader (1982–96) brought rapid change to Spain and to Andalucía, which was given relative autonomy.

Felipe V (1700–46) had his court in Seville until a claim to the throne by Archduke Charles of Austria led to the War of Spanish Succession.

A few of the names who advanced the art include: singers El Fillo and La Niña de los Peines; guitarist Paco de Lucía; and dancers La Macarrona and Carmen Amaya.

The simple fare that had existed prior to the Moorish incursion – centred around olives, wheat and grapes – gave way to a bounty of flavours. Almonds, saffron, nutmeg, pepper and other spices became commonplace in the region.

This Moorish castle, crowning the hill above the town, is the chief attraction here. Created by Granada’s rulers in the 14th century, it incorporates 12th-century structures and earlier elements, since the strategically situated town dates from prehistoric times. After the Christian reconquest in 1341 (see The Sierra Nevada), additions to the fortress continued until the 16th century. The castle keep houses an archaeological museum (see Alcalá La Real).

The great painter (1598–1664) spent most of his life in and around Seville, where his art adorns churches and museums. His works are noted for their mystical qualities, dramatized by striking chiaroscuro (light and shade) effects – hallmarks, as well, of his contemporaries Caravaggio and José de Ribera.