Since the first half of the XX C., the Castilian city of Burgos has welcomed European students over the summer months, drawn there by the language, the city's historic buildings and leafy tree-lined avenues, and the scenic beauty of its province.
The University of Burgos, since its recent self-governing status, has offered Spanish language courses throughout the entire year directed, by preference, at specific groups who are seeking courses that take account of their own educational needs. Figuring among these groups are teachers of Spanish in secondary education from educational centres in Europe and the United States of America, students from European and U.S. universities, Erasmus students and executives of international companies.
Classes in Spanish language and culture are taught in a modern, functional building situated in the area surrounding the Hospital del Rey, now home to the University of Burgos and formerly a hospital for pilgrims, ever since it was founded by King Alfonso VIII, in 1195, to care for those in mid-pilgrimage along the Camino de Santiago who fell sick.
Excursions and theatre, culinary arts, or dance workshops all serve as learning situations to complement the Spanish language classes, which are taught by qualified teachers with experience in the teaching of Spanish to foreigners, developed with the aim of attaining acceptable levels of communicative competence. Furthermore, students studying Spanish will be able to access the internet, practice sports and enjoy the leisure activities organised by the University.