Vitoria-Gasteiz: History and Sustainability

Vitoria-Gasteiz, the capital of Álava and seat of the Basque Country institutions, is a city that surprises with its perfect balance between an impeccably preserved historical heritage and a cutting-edge commitment to nature. Located just over an hour from Casa Rural Iturrieta, it offers a relaxed and enriching visit.

Its old town, known as 'La Almendra' (The Almond) for its characteristic shape, is one of the most beautiful medieval complexes in northern Spain. But Vitoria doesn't just look to the past; its 'Green Belt' and its title of European Green Capital show that it is a city designed for living. The Cathedral of Santa María, which inspired Ken Follett for 'The Pillars of the Earth', is a must-see under its motto 'Open for Works'.

Practical information

Cathedral of Santa María

The 'Open for Works' guided tour is essential. You can see the foundations and the real restoration process of a Gothic cathedral.

Mural Route

Walk through the old town and discover the enormous murals decorating building façades, telling stories of the city.

Salburua Wetlands

Part of the Green Belt. It's an incredible ecosystem where you can see deer and waterfowl from the Ataria interpretation centre.

Plaza de la Virgen Blanca

The heart of the city. Take a photo with the plant sign and enjoy the pintxos in the surrounding bars and on Cuchillería street.

Artium Museum

For contemporary art lovers, this museum is a benchmark in the Basque Country with top-level exhibitions.

Renaissance Palaces

Don't miss the palaces of Escoriaza-Esquivel and Montehermoso, jewels of Renaissance architecture in the heart of the medieval quarter.

The Medieval Almond

Guild Streets: Walk along Herrería, Zapatería or Cuchillería, which keep the names of the old trades.
Medieval Wall: Part of the 11th-century wall has been restored and can be visited for views of the city from above.
Church of San Miguel: It houses the niche of the Virgen Blanca, the patron saint of the city.

Green Vitoria

Sustainable Mobility: The city is flat and perfect for exploring by bicycle along its many cycle lanes.
Florida Park: A romantic botanical garden in the city centre, famous for its monumental Nativity scene at Christmas.
Ataria: The gateway to nature. A cutting-edge building for understanding the value of the wetlands.

A literary secret

"Walking through the Plaza de la Burullería, in front of the Cathedral, you'll feel like you're inside a novel. The city has served as a setting not only for Ken Follett, but also for 'The Silence of the White City' by Eva García Sáenz de Urturi. The medieval atmosphere is real."