Old Town of San Sebastián
País Vasco
The Old Town of San Sebastián, known locally as Parte Vieja or Alde Zaharra, is the historic core of the city, located at the foot of Mount Urgull and encompassing the city's port. This area represents the original walled city that existed from the late 12th century until the walls were dismantled in 1863. The neighborhood was almost entirely destroyed by fire and looting during the Anglo-Portuguese siege in 1813 amid the Spanish War of Independence, with only a single block on Trinidad Street and some religious buildings surviving. Over the subsequent 36 years, the Old Town was rebuilt, resulting in the current layout dating from the early 19th century. It features notable religious sites such as the Basilica of Santa María del Coro, the Church of San Vicente, and the San Telmo convent, now part of the San Telmo Museum. The Old Town reflects the city's layered history, from Roman settlements to medieval fortifications, and its evolution as a royal and elite resort city famed for its gastronomy and cultural festivals. Today, it remains a vibrant hub of Basque culture and architecture, blending historical significance with lively urban life.
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Tip: Visit the Old Town during weekdays to avoid weekend crowds and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere. Explore early in the day to fully appreciate the historic architecture and visit the San Telmo Museum. Purchasing tickets for the museum in advance is recommended during peak tourist seasons. The area is pedestrian-friendly and best explored on foot. Look out for local pintxo bars to experience San Sebastián's renowned gastronomy. Comfortable footwear is advised due to cobblestone streets.
Interesting facts
- •The Old Town retains remnants of the original city walls, including the Portaletas gate near the port.
- •The street named '31 de agosto' commemorates the date of the 1813 fire that destroyed much of the Old Town.
- •The San Telmo convent, now a museum, is one of the few religious buildings that survived the 1813 destruction.
- •San Sebastián was once a royal and elite resort, which influenced the Belle Époque architecture seen in the city.
- •The Old Town is famous for its pintxo bars, contributing to San Sebastián's reputation as a gastronomic capital.
History
The area now known as the Old Town of San Sebastián was originally a Roman settlement around 50–200 AD.
The city was chartered in 1181 by King Sancho VI of Pamplona, with its medieval walls built by the 15th century.
In 1813, during the Spanish War of Independence, Anglo-Portuguese forces devastated the city, destroying most of the Old Town except for a few buildings.
Reconstruction took place over the next three decades, with the city walls dismantled in 1863, marking the end of its military function and allowing urban expansion.
This rebuilding phase shaped the current historic district seen today.
Place Guide
Basilica of Santa María del Coro18th century
A baroque church and one of the few religious buildings that survived the 1813 fire, notable for its ornate facade and interior artworks.
Church of San Vicente14th century
Another historic church that survived the 1813 devastation, showcasing Gothic and Baroque architectural elements.
San Telmo Museum (former convent)16th century
Originally a convent, this building survived the 1813 fire and now serves as a museum dedicated to Basque society and culture.
Portaletas Gate15th century
One of the remaining parts of the old city walls, this gate marks the historic boundary of the Old Town near the port area.
