A traveling exhibit, demonstrating how Spain left its mark on America, will be opening in Houston, TX, on Thursday, April 14.

The exhibit, called “Designing America: Spain’s Imprint in the U.S,” will include historical documents and audio-visual elements to remind viewers of the culture that helped shape our country. The exhibition is divided into four blocks: “The Image of America”, “Constructing the territory”, “Cities: The Spanish urban space”, and “Constructed works: architecture and engineering.” More than 20 maps and numerous images and historic objects will be matched with parallel narrations to present visitors with a full, rich story.

The first Spanish settlers set foot in Florida in 1513, and with an astounding 500 years of control, Spain was the first European nation to claim the territory now known as the United States and was the one that stayed the longest. This long period of Spanish rule left behind pivotal influences on our country’s structure, society, and landscape that can be easily seen today after more than five centuries.

While 50% of the country’s largest trade shows and other exhibitions are more commonly hosted in cities like Las Vegas, Chicago, and Orlando, Houston is the lucky city that will be receiving this fascinating exhibit. Orlando may have been the more obvious choice, seeing as how Florida was Spain’s entryway into America; however, Houston is home to a much larger Hispanic population with 37% of the city’s residents identifying as Hispanic or Latino.

The Houston Public Library will be holding the exhibition between April 14 and July 23, 2016. A free commencement reception is open to the public on April 14 at 6 p.m. at the Julia Ideson Building in Downtown Houston.