Balmaseda, Medieval town in Biscay, Spain
Balmaseda is a town in Biscay set beside a river and surrounded by steep mountain slopes. A Romanesque bridge serves as the main crossing point, connecting the settlement across the water.
The town was established in the late 12th century as one of the earliest chartered settlements in the region. It served as an important trading link between the inland areas and the coastal ports.
The town reflects its medieval roots through local festivals and traditions that remain part of everyday life for residents. Walking through the center, you can see how the past shapes the way people gather and celebrate together.
The town is well connected to the surrounding area and can be reached comfortably using different means of transport. You can explore it on foot and find access to walking paths in the surrounding mountains.
An old factory museum preserves the story of beret production, an industry that was once central to the region. Visitors can see how traditional craft techniques were practiced over many generations.
Location: Biscay
Inception: 1199
Capital city: Balmaseda
Elevation above the sea: 146 m
Part of: Enkarterriko Udal Euskaltegia
Shares border with: Artzentales, Sopuerta, Zalla, Valle de Mena
Website: http://balmaseda.net
GPS coordinates: 43.19583,-3.19278
Latest update: December 20, 2025 13:40
La Encartada Beret Factory Museum in Balmaseda
2.7 km
Puente Viejo de Balmaseda
396 m
Urrutia jauregia, Balmaseda
331 m
Town hall of Balmaseda
11 m
Horcasitas jauregia
350 mArbalitza
2.1 kmGarbea
2.2 km
Church of San Juan Bautista del Moral
321 mVilla Lola
216 m
Convent of Santa Clara, Balmaseda
579 mIglesia Corazon De Maria
341 mLa Encartada
2.8 kmPresa Y Canal
2.8 kmCasa Chalet 19
348 mAntigua Receptoria
552 mIglesia Del Convento Santa Clara
535 mEscuelas Publicas
275 mColegio Hijas De La Cruz
343 mCasa Pio Bermejillo 16
134 m
Iglesia De San Juan Del Moral
307 mCasa Plaza De San Severino 14
93 mCasa Correria 14
63 mFuente Plaza De San Severino
47 mCasa Neovasca Magdalena 21
376 mCasa Avenida Encartaciones 3
601 mEl Castillo
286 mPalacio Magdalena
166 mMatadero de Balmaseda
261 mVisited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes