Iruña/Pamplona historic district

The historic district of Pamplona is a medieval quarter with stone buildings from different eras arranged around narrow, winding streets. The area is completely enclosed by ancient fortification walls that define the structure of this compact urban neighborhood.

The area was founded as a Roman settlement by Pompey, later developing into a city center during the Middle Ages under the Kingdom of Navarre. Over the centuries, the fortifications were expanded and reinforced to protect the growing population.

The old quarter is where religious and community life centers around the Gothic Cathedral and several churches woven into the narrow streets. People gather on the squares for celebrations, markets, and daily socializing, especially during the yearly festival weeks.

The quarter can be reached through several gates in the city walls, with parking available in underground facilities nearby. The best way to explore is on foot, since the streets are narrow and vehicle traffic is limited.

The streets of Santo Domingo and Mercaderes are part of the traditional route for the San Fermin festival in July, when bulls run through the narrow passages of the old quarter. This famous event happens every year and still shapes the character of the place.