Hondarribia, medieval, maritime and gastronomic town

Discover Pays Basque

Hondarribia is a Basque locality proud of these three important centers of interest. There are first of all interesting medieval remains whose architecture lovers of history and heritage will appreciate. This past harmonizes with the maritime tradition of Hondarribia, a fishing village where you can practice all kinds of water sports. Many dishes and pintxos that you will taste there are directly related to fishing in the Cantabrian Sea.

Photos of the article @ Bidasoa Turismo

Medieval Hondarribia

Hondarribia is a city with a rich medieval past. This is why it is part of the Network of Medieval Cities and Towns, a tourist initiative that brings together eleven towns in Spain and Portugal with an important heritage relating to this period of history. The main purpose of this initiative is to promote and disseminate the rich historical heritage of these cities and towns whose history, architecture, legends and literature have come down to us.

Hondarribia offers more than 20 vestiges of its medieval past, the city walls, the Gates of Santa María and San Nicolás, the two entrances to the town, as well as the Calle Mayor. Note the imposing eaves of houses with wrought iron balconies and sometimes adorned with coats of arms.

Also noteworthy are the parish church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción y del Manzano, dating from the 15th and 16th centuries, the Plaza de Armas, where proclamations, receptions and other popular festivities took place, the Castle of Charles V, attributed in Sancho Abarca de Navarra, the Polvorín, one of the powder warehouses of the city, the ramparts of Leyva, Queen and San Felipe, as well as the so-called well of the Frenchman.

To better immerse yourself in the medieval past of Hondarribia, you have to walk along certain streets such as San Nicolás Street, Ubilla Street, Pampinot Street, de las Tiendas Street, del Obispo Street or the Plaza de Gipuzkoa, of recent construction.

Maritime Hondarribia

In Hondarribia, the activity of fishing occupies a prominent place. It is a tradition that dates back to the founding, in 1361, of the Cofradía de Mareantes (fisherman's brotherhood) of San Pedro. That is why along the beautiful streets of San Pedro, Santiago and Santa María there are still many typical fishermen's houses.

The Marina district has been classified as a Historic and Artistic Monument. It is a particularly interesting area for the atmosphere of its many bars and restaurants.

The meeting between the sea, the river and the mountain offers many possibilities for the practice of nautical activities such as sailing, sea trips, diving, surfing, rowing, jet skiing and paddle surfing among others.

Gastronomic Hondarribia

A stroll through the city or a day dedicated to the practice of a few aquatic activities naturally whets the appetite. What could be better then than to sit down in one or other of the famous restaurants to treat yourself to a gastronomic tasting. To put in the mouth, some delicious pintxos, are on the counters of the bars, like a multicolored carpet.

The restaurant menu of Hondarribia offers a number of fish, meat and vegetable dishes, based on local and seasonal products. Signature cuisine also has its place on the counters of some bars, in an elegant setting, while respecting the flavor of the products. Finally, let's not forget the delicious desserts to crown a feast worthy of the name.

Throughout the year, on Wednesdays in Damarri de la Alameda Street and Saturdays in San Pedro Street in the Portua neighborhood, the Hondarribia Farm Products Fair takes place where local producers come to sell their products.

To find out more, consult the Bidasoa turismo website and organize your stay in the region.