San Sebastián

Written: April 4th, 2008  Print This Page  Email This Page

San Sebastian is a city located in the northern coast of Spain, facing the Bay of Biscay. There are several beaches located near the city that are popular destinations of holidaymakers. Strolling around the town will also allow visitors to behold some of the interesting sights the city has to offer.

Sights & Activities

Along the Paseo del Muelle is the Palacio del Mar, where the Aquarium is located. This attraction is considered the most popular in the city, patronized by adults and children alike. It features an underwater tunnel so visitors can better observe its numerous marine creatures. There is also a large whale skeleton located within the premises, part of the display of the Oceanographic Museum that is also located on the same site. The palace itself is set amidst beautiful gardens that are homes to many exotic plants. Visitors can also tour the palace interiors and admire the lavishly decorated rooms.

Another attraction designed for the whole family is the Monte Igeldo Amusement Park. A lot of amusement rides located within the complex are used to provide entertainment and fun to its patrons of all ages.

A known meeting place in the city is the Plaza de la Constitución, a public square that is more than 200 years old. It is the location of the Ayuntamiento or the old Town Hall, which was converted into a Municipal Library. A lot of social and community events are held within this structure, making the square an important cultural setting.

The Catedral del Buen Pastor or the Buen Pastor Cathedral is located at the Plaza del Buen. This Neo-Gothic cathedral was completed in the later part of the 20th century and bears a tower that has become a familiar landmark of the city.

Another historic structure in the city is the Basilica de Santa Maria del Coro. It was built in the 16th century and features several beautiful stained glass windows.

The major outdoor destination in the area is the Cristina Eana Park, located along Paseo del Duque de Mandas. The park features a lake where boating can be done. The scenic areas of the park are also ideal for picnics with the family or loved one.

Another park is located in the southern outskirts of the city, the Aiete Park. Families frequently visit this park because of its large lake that is home to a number of water fowls, its numerous ponds and waterfalls, and a large playground area for children.

The festival of the Tamborrada is celebrated every 20th of January, the feast day of Saint Sebastian. During this time, a group of adults dressed as soldiers and cooks marches around the city for 24 hours sounding their drums. This festival traces its origins during the occupation of the French army, when the locals at that time mocked their daily procession.

San Sebastian also hosts the festival called Semana Grande, in which a firework competition is organized.

The San Sebastian Jazz Festival is considered to be the longest running jazz festival in Europe, held every July.

Weather

San Sebastian enjoys a climate described as oceanic. During the spring season, rain showers tend to occur frequently and summer becomes the perfect season to visit the city. Most of the visitors often head out to the beach during this season to cool off and enjoy the beach lifestyle. Autumn ushers in much colder nights though the days are still bright and sunny. Winter may be mild in San Sebastian but is also damp, with rain occurring frequently.