Features of spanish urbanisation

80% of the population is urban

Urbanisation began later than in Europe

High contrast between center and

periphery (coast)

Strong urban growth in recent years

Growth of new metropolitan areas:

+diffuse city

Urban spaces concentrate industry and

specialized services

Biggest cities: Madrid-Barcelona

 The urban hierarchy in Spain

1. National metropolis:
+Madrid-Barcelona: International cities
+over 3 million inhabitants
+Great economic, political and cultural
influence in all country
+Strong growth today

2. Regional metropolis
+Population: 0,5-1 million inhabitants
+Valencia, Sevilla, Málaga, Zaragoza, Bilbao

3. Regional cities
+ Population: 0,5-0,2 million inhabitants
+Coruña/Vigo

4. Medium and small cities

+Lugo, Ourense…