Castile-La Mancha

Castile-La Mancha is an autonomous community of Spain. Located in the central part of the country, it is bordered by Castile and León, Madrid, Aragon, Valencia, Murcia, Andalusia, and Extremadura. It is one of the most sparsely populated of Spain's autonomous communities. Its capital city is Toledo, and its most populous city is Albacete.

History

The history of Castile-La Mancha dates back to the Roman Empire, when the area was part of the Roman province of Hispania Tarraconensis. After the fall of the Roman Empire, the region was invaded by various Germanic peoples, including the Visigoths. In the 8th century, it was conquered by the Moors, who ruled it until the Reconquista in the 11th century.

Geography

Castile-La Mancha is characterized by its vast plains, mountain ranges, and large river valleys. The region is crossed by several major rivers, including the Tagus, the Guadiana, and the Júcar. The climate is continental, with hot summers and cold winters.

Economy

The economy of Castile-La Mancha is diverse, with important sectors including agriculture, industry, and services. The region is known for its production of wine, olive oil, and Manchego cheese, a type of cheese made from the milk of the Manchega sheep.

Culture

Castile-La Mancha is rich in cultural heritage, with numerous historical sites, festivals, and traditions. The region is famous for its Don Quixote route, a tourist route that follows the path of the fictional character from the novel by Miguel de Cervantes. The region is also known for its traditional music and dance, such as the jota.

See also

• List of municipalities in Castile-La Mancha
• Cuisine of Castile-La Mancha