Pamplona, Capital city in Navarre, Spain
Pamplona sits in a wide basin along the Arga River at an elevation of 446 meters (1,463 feet), surrounded by green hills in northern Spain. The old town consists of three quarters with a medieval layout, now connected to newer districts through broad boulevards and parks.
Roman general Pompey founded the settlement in 75 BC, which later became the capital of the Kingdom of Navarre. In the 16th century, Spanish rulers built the citadel as a fortress that still stands today.
Every July during San Fermín, locals dress in white shirts with red scarves and fill the old town from morning until late at night. Music, food and performances shape the rhythm of the narrow streets and squares during those days.
The old town is easy to explore on foot, with many streets reserved for pedestrians and all main points close together. Buses connect the center to the outer neighborhoods and run regularly throughout the day.
The Cathedral of Santa María la Real houses a Gothic tomb of Charles III of Navarre and his wife within its interior. The statues show both rulers in a resting pose, surrounded by fine stonework from the 15th century.
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