A passionate, cheerful country with a mysterious aura of light and darkness[4], Spain was once a super powerful nation and traveler until he was tormented by England and The Netherlands, beaten by a younger America, and thrown into war and poverty.[2] Despite all his hardships, he remained optimistic and passionate. The source of his constant happiness is the sunshine that casts over his land. He's said to not be likely to change much with time[3] and to do whatever he wants, whenever he wants, in whatever way he wants,[4] being a very "my pace" country[5]. He cannot read the atmosphere, nor does he even try so, although he means well, he happens to come off as insensitive and clueless at times.[6]
Spain seems to be fond of children, or at least the Italy brothers (though he seems fond of them as adults, as well.) It is shown that his ultimate dream is for both of them to live with him.[7][8] He'd also expressed interest in marrying them.[9] He's often shown spending time with Romano, France, Prussia, Belgium, or Netherlands.
When he drinks wine he's said to get sentimental, but getting him drunk makes him scary enough to change even Sweden's facial expression[10]. It's advised to keep your distance when he's drunk, and that he won't be mad afterwards if you do.[5]
Spain speaks in the Osaka-ben variant of the Kansai dialect in the Japanese version of the manga and anime.