Summary
It is impossible to discuss this city in northern Spain without referencing San Fermín, a vibrant celebration that occurs each July. During this week of festivities, daily bull runs take place where both tourists and locals attempt to avoid being trampled or gored by the charging bulls and steers.
However, the fiesta encompasses far more than just the bull runs; likewise, Pamplona is not limited to this event: throughout most of the year, the city functions as a tranquil provincial hub, enriched with a distinct history, captivating sights, exceptional cuisine, and some of Spain’s finest wines.
Let us delve into the premier attractions in Pamplona:
1. Ciudadela de Pamplona
Situated within the Vuelta del Castillo Park, this renaissance-era citadel showcases a flat star-shaped design that emerged following the adoption of gunpowder by European armies.
Construction began in the 1570s, concluding in 1645, albeit with extensions added in 1685 to reinforce the outer walls.
Remarkably, it has never been besieged, thus remaining in excellent condition.
The bastions now accommodate art exhibitions and concerts throughout the summer months.
During the San Fermín festival in July, the citadel walls serve as the backdrop for a spectacular nightly fireworks competition.
2. Pamplona Cathedral
The location of this 15th-century cathedral boasts a remarkably eventful history.
This site served as the center of the Roman settlement known as Pompaelo, where the first Christian cathedral was established.
This initial structure was dismantled upon the arrival of the Moors, then rebuilt following the city’s reconquest, only to collapse once again, leading to the construction of another Romanesque cathedral that subsequently succumbed as well. Ultimately, the present French-style Gothic edifice was erected and persists to this day.
Marvel at the intricate vaulting above the nave, and take time to view the choir adorned with carved stalls from the Renaissance period.
Also, do not miss the Diocesan Museum located adjacent to the cloister, where one can observe a collection of religious art sourced from churches throughout Navarre.
3. Plaza del Castillo
The central square of Pamplona plays such an integral role in the social fabric of the city that locals often refer to it as their “cuarto de estar” (the living room). It lies immediately south of the old town (San Cernin), between the historic medieval districts of San Nicolás and Navarrería.
The square features arcaded passages on all sides, characteristic of Spanish Renaissance architecture, where outdoor seating for cafes and restaurants is complemented by lawns and rows of trimmed plane trees.
A stone bandstand occupies the center of the square, where concerts are held on summer evenings, particularly during the San Fermín festivities.
4. Museo de Navarra
This museum presents fascinating remnants from Pamplona’s earliest cathedral, shedding light on the comprehensive human history of the Navarre region.
Within the lovely confines of this Renaissance-era hospital, significant segments of the Romanesque cathedral’s stonework are displayed, including intricately carved capitals that once crowned the pillars of a now-lost cloister.
Among the collection is a mosaic depicting the Triumph of Bacchus, dating back to the 1st century, alongside a Moorish ivory chest from the 1000s.
The museum’s eclectic exhibitions encompass a wide range of artifacts, from medieval frescoes to a Goya portrait of the Marquis of San Adrián.
5. Iglesia de San Saturnino
As previously noted, Pamplona did not originate as a single city; instead, it comprised three neighboring “burgos” (villages or boroughs), which historically experienced conflict. Evidence of this can be observed in this 13th-century Gothic church, recognized as the parish of San Cernin.
The church’s fort-like appearance is intentional, as it served a defensive purpose during disputes among the neighborhoods.
Today, the church’s two towers are among Pamplona’s iconic postcard subjects, with the clock tower gaining particular prominence on July 6th when it announces the commencement of the San Fermín festivities at noon.
6. Iglesia de San Nicolás
From there, a five-minute stroll will lead you to the parish of San Nicolás, whose medieval church is similarly fortified.
This structure features a reinforced watchtower with turrets adorning each corner.
Originally, three towers graced this Gothic 13th-century church, erected following a deliberate fire that ravaged the previous Romanesque building on this site.
The interior’s highlight is the magnificent baroque organ, recognized as the finest of its type in Pamplona.
7. Running of the Bulls
This event is the one most commonly associated with the city and gained international recognition through Hemingway’s renowned novel, “The Sun Also Rises.”
It forms part of the San Fermín Festival, commencing on July 6th and concluding on the 14th.
The bull runs occur daily throughout the festival, a tradition that has persisted for at least 250 years.
Six fighting bulls and six oxen are released from a pen to navigate the 825-meter course through the old town and into Pamplona’s bullring, where they will later face their fate in fights.
Participants typically don white attire complemented by a neckerchief featuring the city’s coat of arms, and it is imperative to note that this activity carries significant risks, with numerous injuries reported each year.
8. Chupinazo
At noon on July 6th, the festivities commence with a symbolic opening from the balcony of the Ayuntamiento (Town Hall). Tens of thousands of attendees gather in the square below, holding their red neckerchiefs aloft in unison while chanting praises to Saint Fermín, culminating in a firework being ignited to signal the festival’s onset.
This event is typically broadcast live on regional television, with the individual leading the chants and lighting the firework often being a local politician, renowned athlete, or celebrity.
9. San Fermín Procession
At 10:00 AM on July 7th, a grand procession departs from the Church of San Lorenzo, traversing through Pamplona in honor of Saint Fermín.
This event is integral to the festival, characterized by its ceremonial nature and the fervor of the assembled crowds.
A wide assortment of musicians participate, including the city’s official brass band, often prompting spontaneous chants and songs from the attendees.
The procession also features Giants, large papier-mâché figures that frequently possess historical significance, some dating back generations.
Along the route, crowds gather, often donning white garments complemented by a red scarf; it is a breathtaking spectacle that remains etched in memory!
10. Urbasa Andía Natural Park
Located an hour’s drive west of Pamplona, the meeting point of the Urbasa and Andía mountain ranges presents a striking natural landscape.
This elevated area boasts verdant pastures and mossy beech forests, creating an idyllic environment ripe with biodiversity and acting as the source of several regional rivers.
The park’s karstic features give rise to numerous stunning natural sites, including gorges with sheer cliffs, tall waterfalls, and enchanting turquoise pools.
The source of the Urederra River stands out as the park’s highlight, with a 100-meter cascade surrounded by lush woods of hazelnut, elm, maple, oak, and yew.
11. Taconera Gardens
A leisurely stroll uphill to the west of the old city leads to the oldest park in Pamplona.
This sophisticated park, designed in the French style, features broad avenues lined with deciduous trees and neatly trimmed hedges.
On the southeastern side, a triumphal arch honors Julián Gayarre, the celebrated 19th-century tenor.
For young visitors, a small zoo showcasing deer, peacocks, pheasants, and ducks residing in semi-freedom adds to the park’s appeal.
The remnants of Pamplona’s ancient walls are integrated into the landscape, providing stunning views over the River Arga, the city of Pamplona, and the imposing foothills of the Pyrenees beyond.
12. San Sebastián
Merely an hour’s drive north lies San Sebastián, a favored summer retreat for affluent families for generations.
Set on Concha Bay, San Sebastián is adorned with two stunning golden sandy beaches.
The Atlantic waters are tranquil here, as the Island of Santa Clara, located at the mouth of the bay, serves as a protective barrier against turbulent currents.
Visitors may unwind by the shore during the day or ascend the small hills and promontories that bring grandeur to the landscape.
The peak of Igueldo to the west offers breathtaking views over the bay and city.
As night falls, the culinary offerings of Spain’s preeminent gastronomic city are at guests’ disposal, with a dining reputation that rivals that of Paris.
13. La Rioja
To the southwest of Pamplona lie the sprawling vineyards of the La Rioja wine region, renowned as one of Spain’s most prominent wine-producing areas.
This winemaking tradition dates back approximately 2,500 years to when Phoenicians settled the region.
The industry gained formal recognition in the 12th century under the royal decree from the King of Navarra and Aragon.
The city of Logroño serves as an excellent gateway to explore La Rioja’s viticulture, functioning as a true wine capital.
Caves (bodegas) located within the city allow for shared experiences over a bottle of wine paired with exquisite cheese or cured ham.
Moreover, wineries and cooperatives in the countryside provide insights into the production of some of Spain’s finest wines.
14. Regional Specialities
Located just south of the city, Pamplona’s culinary scene shares some similarities with Basque cuisine, yet it has local specialties that are delightful to discover and may even be taken as souvenirs.
The standout ingredient is asparagus, which has a designated origin in Navarre.
These thick, white stalks flourish in the fertile soil along the Ebro River.
Their ghostly appearance results from being cultivated entirely underground, yet their flavor excels in salads, stews, or grilled dishes.
Navarre’s signature liqueur is Pacharán, a vibrant red digestif flavored with sloe fruit.
15. Pintxos
Pintxos, the northern Spanish version of tapas, derives its name from the toothpick (pincho) utilized to secure each small dish to an open slice of crusty bread.
It is customary for friends to enjoy pintxos together at any time during the afternoon or evening; however, unlike in some other regions of Spain, the dishes are not complimentary with drinks.
Many of the concoctions showcased are surprisingly creative, particularly in upscale bars.
For a more rustic and local taste, consider trying txistorra, a spicy sausage native to the Basque region that remains a staple in Navarre.
On Thursdays, many bars hold a special known as Juevintxo, during which purchasing a beer entitles you to a pintxo at a reduced price.
