Spain's culture and customs play a major role in attracting the throngs of tourists that flock to this Iberian nation. Moorish palaces and Gothic cathedrals stand in stark contrast to the modern buildings of metropolises such as Barcelona and Madrid. Remote Spanish towns ooze history and pastoral charm, while bigger cities bustle with action and entertainment. Each region of Spain has its own unique traditions, but several widely practiced customs stand out as iconic symbols for the country as a whole.