A tour through medieval quarter of Vitoria

A tour through medieval quarter of Vitoria – Gasteiz

The old part of Vitoria preserves its original medieval plan, which dates back to more than eight centuries ago. It is located on a hill, where the “Cathedral of Santa Maria” is located.

All the names of the streets refer to different groups of artisans who used to work and live there (Herrería, Zapatería, Pintoriería…).

Next, I will introduce some places of cultural and historical interest:

First of all, two incredible 16th century Renaissance palaces: "Palacio de Escoriaza-Esquibel”, built with masonry stone and many decorated elements, and “Palacio de Montehermoso”, one of the first stately buildings built in Vitoria.

As a must see I would highlight the “Cathedral of Santa Maria”, a 14th century gothic representation. It has a Latin cross plan and a really majestic portico divided in three portals. Nowadays, the cathedral crypt has been converted into a historical museum.

Now it is the turn of the “Plaza de la Virgen Blanca”, which holds a monument of the Battle of Vitoria. It is a 17th century square located in the centre of the city. There you can contemplate the square from the balcony of San Miguel Church, see the “Celedón statue” and enjoy the bar terraces and discover all the different shops. You can take a walk in the nearby Florida Park, one of the most emblematic parks in Vitoria, created in 1820 with a French romantic inspiration garden.

Other points of interest are: “La casa del Cordón”, a 15th century build with a medieval 13th century tower, “El Portalón", a curious 15th century post inn, “San Pedro church”, 16th century gothic church …

To complete this experience there are many museums, such as “Artium”, “Bellas artes Museum”... and at the end of the day you can enjoy the city nightlife, where you can taste the incredible Vitoria gastronomy in the “pintxos route”.