Alava

Álava, or Araba in Basque, is a province of the Basque Country in northern Spain. It is one of the three provinces that form the autonomous community. The capital and largest city is Vitoria-Gasteiz, which also hosts the Basque Parliament and Government.

Geography: It is bordered by Biscay to the north, Gipuzkoa to the east, La Rioja to the south, and Navarre to the west. The terrain ranges from the Ebro valley plains to northern mountain areas, including parts of the Cantabrian range. The Rioja Alavesa wine region runs along the lower Ebro, containing towns such as Laguardia, Elciego, and Salvatierra-Agurain.

Economy and culture: The province has a population of around 330,000 people. The economy is diverse, with services, manufacturing, and agriculture. Rioja Alavesa wine production is a significant sector and tourist draw. The Basque language and culture are present, with both Basque and Spanish used in official life, particularly in the capital.

History and administration: Álava was historically part of the Kingdom of Navarre and later integrated into the Crown of Castile. In the modern era it became part of the Basque Autonomous Community under the Statute of Autonomy of 1979. Administratively it is divided into several municipalities, including its capital Vitoria-Gasteiz and towns such as Laguardia, Salvatierra-Agurain, and Amurrio, and contains protected natural areas such as Izki Park.