Vitoria-Gasteiz

Catedral de Santa María (Old Cathedral)

This 13th-century Gothic monument is probably the city’s most emblematic building, world-famous because its complex guided tours ‘Abierto por Obras’ (Open for Works) inspired Ken Follett’s novel. Visitors can access it from Tuesday to Sunday between 10:00 and 19:00 to tour its naves and discover the secrets of its restoration, although purchasing a ticket is mandatory to take part in these guided experiences. The cathedral stands out not only for its religious architecture but also for how it has allowed tourists to see the conservation process in real time, becoming a benchmark in heritage management.

Los Arquillos (The Little Arches)

Designed by Justo Antonio de Olaguibel in the late 18th century, this Neoclassical architectural ensemble is an essential piece of urban engineering for understanding the city’s expansion. Its main function was to connect the Medieval Quarter with the new expansion area, bridging a 23-metre height difference by creating a platform on which stone dwellings and arcaded galleries were built. Today, walking along Los Arquillos allows you to appreciate the constructive integration that links the main square with the old city, offering privileged views of the transition between eras.

Catedral de María Inmaculada (New Cathedral)

Popularly known as the New Cathedral, this imposing Neo-Gothic building is the most important of its style in the city and is located opposite La Florida Park in the romantic ensanches (19th-century expansions). Although the Diocese was established in 1862, construction of this Latin cross plan temple did not begin until 1904 and its inauguration was delayed until 1969. Its façade and towers dominate the urban landscape of the expansion district, contrasting with the sobriety of the historic quarter and showcasing Vitoria-Gasteiz’s architectural evolution towards modernity.

Basque Parliament

This institutional building, situated opposite La Florida Park, has housed the Basque legislative seat since the 1980s and represents the democratic power of the autonomous community. The interior lobby is notable for its use of noble materials combined with contemporary details, creating a solemn yet open space for citizens. Guided tours are available that explain in detail its democratic function and the history of Basque institutions, making it a point of interest for those wishing to understand regional politics.

Santuario de Nuestra Señora de Estíbaliz (Sanctuary of Our Lady of Estíbaliz)

Located on the outskirts, this 12th-century Romanesque sanctuary is dedicated to the patron saint of Álava and was declared a Bien de Interés Cultural (Heritage of Cultural Interest) in 1931. The structure retains early Gothic elements, with its cloister being particularly noteworthy, and houses a valuable museum of sacred art inside. The available guided tours offer an in-depth look at the history and religious heritage of the site, making it an essential cultural excursion for understanding devotion and medieval art in the province.

Other points of interest

• Plaza de la Virgen Blanca (White Virgin Square): The heart of Vitoria’s social life and the setting for its festivals, presided over by the obelisk monument to the Battle of Vitoria.
• Parque de la Florida (Florida Park): A romantic 19th-century botanical garden in the city center, home to more than 95 species of trees.
• Casco Medieval (La Almendra Medieval – The Medieval Almond): The city’s old town, with an almond-shaped layout and charming streets named after old guilds.
• Palacio-Casa del Marqués de la Alameda (Palace-House of the Marquis of Alameda): The finest example of domestic Baroque architecture in Vitoria, built between 1731 and 1735, notable for its double eaves.
• Palacio Villa Suso (Villa Suso Palace): A 16th-century Renaissance palace commissioned by Martín de Salinas, ambassador to Charles V, now a conference center.
• Palacio de la Provincia (Provincial Palace): Built in 1918 for the Ajuria family, it serves as the official residence of the Lehendakari (Basque President) and stands out for its traditional Basque style.
• Palacio de la Diputación Foral de Álava (Palace of the Provincial Council of Álava): An institutional building from 1833 made of ashlar stone, representing the historic architecture of Álava with its grand staircase and atrium.
• Monumento a la Batalla de Vitoria (Monument to the Battle of Vitoria): A work by Gabriel Borrás y Abella in the Plaza de la Virgen Blanca, commemorating the victory against Napoleon.
• Plaza del Machete (Machete Square): A historic square behind the Church of San Miguel, where city officials once swore their oaths of office.
• Casco Antiguo de Vitoria-Gasteiz (Old Town of Vitoria-Gasteiz): Preserves the medieval layout founded by Sancho VI the Wise, with streets named after old trades, such as Correría and Herrería.
• BIBAT Museoa: A museum complex in the Bendaña Palace housing the Fournier Playing Card collection and the Álava Museum of Archaeology.
• Iglesia de San Vicente Mártir (Church of St. Vincent Martyr): The last church built in the old town, it is the only example in Álava of a hall church with access to the tower.
• Iglesia de San Miguel (Church of St. Michael): A Gothic church from the 14th and 15th centuries with a single nave and ribbed vaults, forming part of the city’s familiar skyline.
• Iglesia de San Pedro (Church of St. Peter): A 14th-century Gothic parish church attached to the defensive wall, with a fortress-like appearance visible from the outside.
• ARTIUM Museoa: The Basque Museum of Contemporary Art, a benchmark institution with a major collection of Basque and Spanish artists.
• Anillo Verde (Green Belt): A network of peri-urban parks surrounding the city, ideal for walking or cycling, with the Salburua wetlands as a highlight.
• Plaza de la Constitución (Constitution Square): A historic space known as Plaza Nueva, featuring 18th-century neoclassical architecture and uniform arcades.
• Plaza Nueva (New Square): Located in the heart of the old town, built in the 19th century in a neoclassical style with semicircular arches and sandstone.
• Itinerario Muralístico (Mural Trail): A route of large-scale murals on the facades of the Casco Medieval that have revitalized the neighborhood with urban art.
• Plaza de España (Spain Square): A commercial and entertainment hub located in the city.