Plaza del Castillo
Navarra, Comunidad Foral de
Plaza del Castillo, located in the center of Pamplona, Navarra, is a historic public square covering nearly 14,000 square meters, making it the city's second largest plaza after Plaza de los Fueros. Established in the mid-16th century, it has long been the social and cultural hub of Pamplona, often referred to as the "living room" of its residents. Architecturally, the plaza features an open and porticoed design on all sides, with buildings from different periods resulting in a unique blend of styles and heights. Notable structures include the southern façade of the Palacio de Navarra, the former Casino building to the north, and the baroque Palacio de Goyeneche on the east side. The plaza is pedestrianized and landscaped with shaded plane trees arranged around garden beds. At its center stands an 18-meter-high music kiosk with a dome supported by Ionic columns, erected in 1943, replacing earlier structures including a wooden kiosk and a historic fountain known locally as "La Mariblanca." The southern end of the plaza features a statue of King Carlos III the Noble, marking the start of Avenida Carlos III. Historically, the plaza's name references two former castles that once occupied the site, and it has undergone several name changes reflecting Spain's political history. Today, Plaza del Castillo remains a lively venue for social gatherings, cultural events, and is closely associated with the famous Running of the Bulls festival due to its proximity to Estafeta Street.
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Tip: The best time to visit Plaza del Castillo is during the spring and summer months when the weather is pleasant and the plaza hosts frequent cultural events and outdoor concerts at the central bandstand. Visitors interested in the Running of the Bulls should consider viewing from nearby balconies, such as those of the historic Hotel La Perla. The plaza is pedestrian-friendly and free to access year-round. While no entrance fees apply, booking accommodations or balcony access in advance during festival times is recommended due to high demand. Local tourist offices often provide information on guided tours and event schedules.
Interesting facts
- •The plaza covers almost 14,000 square meters, making it Pamplona's second-largest public square after Plaza de los Fueros.
- •Its central music kiosk, built in 1943, stands 18 meters tall and features Ionic columns supporting its dome.
- •The plaza is often called the "living room" of Pamplona due to its role as a social gathering place.
- •Hotel La Perla, located on the plaza, is the oldest hotel in Pamplona and the oldest still operating in Spain, established in 1881.
- •Balconies of Hotel La Perla offer some of the best views of the Running of the Bulls on Estafeta Street adjacent to the plaza.
History
Plaza del Castillo was developed between the 16th and 17th centuries on the site of former fortifications, which gave the plaza its name.
Originally, the area was an open space between the medieval walls of Pamplona's three ancient boroughs.
Over the centuries, the plaza evolved into the city's main social and commercial center.
It experienced several name changes reflecting political shifts in Spain, including titles such as Plaza de la Constitución and Plaza de la República during the 19th and early 20th centuries.
The current layout and architectural diversity result from successive building phases rather than a single urban plan.
The central music kiosk was constructed in 1943, replacing earlier features like the "La Mariblanca" fountain, which was relocated to the city's Taconera Gardens.
Place Guide
Central Music Kiosk1943
An 18-meter-high bandstand built in 1943, featuring a dome supported by Ionic columns. It is the focal point of the plaza and hosts concerts and public events.
Palacio de Navarra Façade
The southern side of the plaza is dominated by one façade of the Palacio de Navarra, a significant governmental building with historical importance.
Palacio de Goyeneche
Located on the eastern side of the plaza, this baroque-style palace is a notable example of Pamplona's aristocratic architecture.
Statue of King Carlos III the Noble
Situated at the southern edge of the plaza at the start of Avenida Carlos III, this statue commemorates the historic monarch linked to Navarra's history.