It seems that Spain has its reputation pegged as a place for the glamorous jet set and middle class retirees to settle down and enjoy the beach, the natural beauty and thriving nightlife. Along with its allure as a sunny delight, did you know that the Iberian Peninsula possesses more UNESCO World Heritage Sites than any other area in the world?

While my mates always headed for the nearest beach bar, I usually sat down with books or travel guides to find out about the historical and cultural treasures in Spain holds for those that are willing to seek them out. Have you ever wondered what gives the Spanish their special flair, awesome culinary delights, gusto for life and, dare I say, their beautiful women?

It all comes down to where their culture comes from and all the ethnic components that went into making the Spanish what they are. Along the way, they built lots of great buildings and fabulous public works. Why, just here in Andalusia there are many great sights to visit. Here are some of my favourites:

In Granada, you find two fantastic sights not to be missed. The Alhambra is a fortress and palace used by Moorish rulers in the 14th and 15th centuries. Muslim rulers of Granada and Southern Spain used the complex, which has become a must-see for its Islamic architecture left from the era when Spain was under Muslim rule.

Later Christian additions in the 16th century add to its mystique and beauty. Be sure to be aware when you are exploring this place, as I almost lost my balance climbing the stone steps to the bell tower, and only the reediest of sticks prevented me from tumbling down the hill-side. Watch your feet!

Nearby, across a ravine, is the Palacio de Generalife, which was the summer getaway palace for the last Islamic sultans of Granada, the Nasrid. Visitors can walk the grounds admiring the gardens, pools, fountains and other examples of medieval horticulture. This is one the longest surviving Moorish gardens. I can spend a whole day visiting these two iconic sites alone!

Not far away is Cordoba, which during the 10th century was arguably the largest city in the Western world. Always an important cultural and economic centre during the Middle Ages, the city offers a stunning contrast in different architectural styles. It is in this city, which today offers visitors modern comforts and accommodation, as well as a vivid nightlife and plenty of great dining, that you find superb examples of Roman and Muslim ruins and buildings.

What makes Cordoba stand out is that its status as a flagship city during each of its iterations throughout time produced buildings and public works that befitted its capital status, enhancing the quality and scale of its archeological sights to enjoy. I come back here all the time, and each trip I seem to find something new to behold. Don’t miss Cordoba!

Heading over to Seville, which offers its own architectural styles and cultural riches, you find the Cathedral of Seville, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built over 100 years, this huge Gothic church is the largest Roman Catholic cathedral in the World, and the fourth largest Christian one. The symbol of Seville’s enormous wealth in the 16th century times, it contains not only the world’s largest altar but also the tomb of Christopher Columbus. Nothing would prepare a new visitor for the staggering size of the building.

For my wife and I, we used our visit, which took place on our 15th wedding anniversary, to do a silent renewing of our vows. It was without a doubt the most spiritually moving moments of my life. My mates, however, would probably be more likely to find the tiniest local pub than to visit a building of even this size.

While in town, head over to the Alacazar of Seville. Originally a Moorish fort, it was converted into a palace and exhibits one of the best examples left of the mudejar architectural style, which was used under Christian rule during the 14th century, but contained copious amounts of Islamic influences.

Later on, one can observe the additional Gothic elements that were added to the palace and grounds, making it a virtual melting pot of pseudo-religious architectural themes. Making the building even more interesting is the fact that the Spanish Royal family still uses the place as its official villa in Seville.

That’s just a sampling of what Spain has to offer in the single region of Andalusia. People come to this sun-kissed part of the world to enjoy the fine beaches and excellent nightlife, and no doubt so did so many of their ancestors as well. The Iberian Peninsula has been the stomping grounds of the Celts, Phoenicians, Greeks, Carthaginians and Romans during BC times.

Afterwards, the Vandals, Visigoths, Moors, Jews, and finally, Christianity asserted its lasting hold on the land, with the heavy hand of the Pope guiding the way. Today, you don’t have to climb into a time machine to explore all the ways the myriad of forces combined to produce the beloved Spanish way that is well-admired for its cultural richness. So much of all that is has been is now visible to see today, if one seeks out the hundreds of spectacular attractions that Spain harbors today.