Culture

The oldest astronomical center in Australia, the Sydney Observatory has a long and glorious history of scientific endeavors. Now converted to a museum and educational facility, it's officially part of the Powerhouse science museum complex.

Stop at the Casa del Rey Moro. Built in the 1700s, a set of Moorish steps leads from the garden down to a delightful gorge. Look back up and enjoy a view that was once enjoyed by the King of Ronda himself.

See a still-functioning convent and church, the Church of Saint Isabel of the Angels, housed in buildings begun during the Moorish occupation of Spain. Established in the 16th century as an order of St Francis of Assisi, the convent has seen substantial restoration since the Spanish Civil War.

As the capital of Andalucia, Sevilla has enjoyed a colorful history stretching back over 2,500 years. Whether strolling around the gardens of Casa de Pilatos or looking up in awe at Alcazar, it isn't hard to believe.

Not least of the attractions is The Alhambra, one of the most often visited sites in all Europe.

Built chiefly from 1338 to 1390, it served as the royal residence for many generations afterward. From the 740 meter (2400 feet) high terrace one gains a view of Granada which is matched only by the Mirador de San Nicolas at the other end of the city.

Apart from the beach and the social life, Malaga has other interesting thing to do and see. The Catherdral and the Alcazaba are two examples of Malaga historic buildings.

During the 10th century Cordoba was the cultural center of Spain. Several cities in this ancient country might now claim that title. But, many sights in this Andalucian town show why Cordoba was - and still is - one of the leaders.

Housed in a building that alone makes a visit worthwhile, the famed dancing stallions will do more than amaze. They will transform your idea of what these magnificent creatures can do.

The Catalan National Art Museum offers a complete history of native art from the Romanesque period through the 1940s. In between are hundreds of samples of the finest art Barcelona has to offer.

In the ultra-fashionable neighborhood along Passeig de Gràcia stands one of the most unusual examples of Barcelona architecture - or anywhere else in the world: Casa Milà, otherwise known as La Pedrera.