Guide to visiting the Old Town in San Sebastián

Despite being square, the Plaza de la Constitución was originally a bullring. It is one of the few still standing and still has the numbers of the balconies that could be rented. Also, the main building in the square was the town hall until 1945, when it moved to the former casino. 

It is a favourite with visitors as a place to eat some pintxos and relax on the bar terraces, but it is of special importance to the Donostiarras, the people of San Sebastián. The city's annual festivities begin here, with the drums of the tamborrada and the hoisting of the flag at midnight on 20th January. 

During this day the Donostiarras play their drums until midnight the next day, when the festivities come to an end.

The San Telmo museum has a long history - it is in fact the oldest museum in the Basque Country. Its history begins in 1652 with the construction of the former Dominican monastery, the building that now houses the museum. The monastery was sacked during the attack in 1813, and years later the military took it over as a barracks. 

The museum has moved several times, because after its founding in 1902 it grew rapidly. It was established in the former monastery in 1932, and in 2010 it expanded its premises, creating a contrast between the monastery and the new, more modern-style building stretching to the foot of Monte Urgull.

This hill rises up behind the Old Town, and is home to several little-known secrets. In the past its location made it a strategic point for defending La Concha bay. If you decide to climb it, you can still find remains and batteries from that time. 

At the top of the mountain the fort of La Mota has survived, offering one of the finest views of San Sebastián. Also, on the way up, notice the old English Cemetery. This was built in honour of the English soldiers who defended the city against French forces. 

The Basilica of Santa María stands in the western part of the Old Town, before going out to San Sebastián harbour. In the doorway there is a striking figure of Saint Sebastian, and inside a sculpture in the shape of a cross by the great Eduardo Chillida. While the basilica today dates from 1774, it replaced a much older Romanesque church. 

Looking at the door, to the right you can see the only street (Calle 31 de Agosto) to survive the fire that followed the attack in 1813. Officially this is the oldest street in the city. Also, facing away from the main doorway to the basilica, you can see the Buen Pastor cathedral, nearly a kilometre away as the crow flies.