Castles and Heritage Sites
This collection features the defensive architecture and aristocratic heritage of the Gipuzkoa region, spanning from prehistoric caves to medieval fortifications. Highlights include the 12th-century Mota Castle atop Mount Urgull, the imposing 16th-century Charles V Castle in Hondarribia, and the UNESCO-listed Ekain cave paintings. The selection showcases fortified city gates, Renaissance palaces, and Gothic churches, offering a comprehensive look at the strategic military history and cultural evolution of the Basque Country.
A Mota Castle
12th-century fortress situated on Mount Urgull. It houses the House of History museum and is topped by a landmark 12-meter statue of the Sacred Heart.
B Palacio Zuloaga
18th-century urban palace in Hondarribia's old town. It features a Baroque stone facade with a prominent coat of arms and currently houses the municipal library.
C Charles V Castle
10th-century stone fortress extensively rebuilt in the 16th century by Emperor Charles V. The building features massive masonry walls and now operates as a Parador hotel.
Puerta de Santa María
The main 16th-century entrance gate to the walled city of Hondarribia, featuring a sun-dial and the city's carved coat of arms above the archway.
E Fuerte de Ametzagaña
Ruins of a 19th-century fort located in Ametzagaña Park. It was constructed during the Carlist Wars as part of the defensive perimeter surrounding San Sebastián.
F Narros Jauregia
16th-century Renaissance palace located on Zarautz beach. Built with ashlar stone, it historically served as the summer residence for Queen Isabella II of Spain.
G Villa mauresque
Early 20th-century Neo-Moorish villa in Hendaye. Designated as a historical monument, it features distinctive horseshoe arches and orientalist architectural elements.
H Zumeltzegi dorrea
13th-century medieval tower house in Oñati. Once the residence of the Lords of Guevara, the structure features thick stone walls and now functions as a hotel.
Castillo de San Telmo
16th-century coastal fortification built on the cliffs of Hondarribia to protect the port of Higuer from pirate attacks and naval incursions.
J Gazteluzar
Ruins of a 16th-century triangular fortress built to defend the border. It remains a significant example of Renaissance military engineering in the Bidasoa region.
K Ekain
UNESCO World Heritage site containing exceptional Magdalenian cave paintings, primarily depicting horses. A precise replica, Ekainberri, is located nearby for public viewing.
Puerta exterior de San Nicolas
A secondary defensive gate in Hondarribia's fortification system, once featuring a drawbridge to control access through the city's exterior walls.
Baluarte de la Reina
A massive 16th-century stone bastion forming part of the Renaissance-era defensive walls designed to protect the southern flank of Hondarribia.
N Nuestra Sra. de la Asunción y del Manzano
Gothic-Renaissance church built between the 15th and 16th centuries. It features a Baroque bell tower and was constructed over the remains of ancient Romanesque walls.
San Millan Eliza
Medieval church in Zizurkil featuring a mix of Gothic and Baroque elements, characterized by its heavy stone construction and regional religious significance.
Castles and Heritage Sites Hozzáadása Az Utazásodhoz
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