Motako Gaztelua-Castillo de la Mota, Medieval fortress on Mount Urgull, San Sebastián, Spain
Motako Gaztelua is a stone fortress built at the summit of Mount Urgull, featuring defensive walls, towers, and passages with views toward the Bay of Biscay. The structure spreads across multiple levels and zones that connect to one another throughout the site.
King Sancho VII of Navarre established this military stronghold in 1194 to defend the city against possible seaborne attacks. Over centuries, it was reinforced multiple times to respond to changing methods of warfare and new threats.
The fortress houses the Casa de la Historia museum, presenting how San Sebastián changed over time through photographs and artifacts. Visitors can trace the city's development and the lives of its people across different periods.
Four different walking routes lead to the castle summit, each passing by monuments including the Sacred Heart statue and viewpoints. Wear appropriate footwear, as some paths are steep and can become slippery depending on weather conditions.
The Rosita Wicke Canyon within the castle walls functioned as a strategic defensive position and now offers views ranging from the sea to the surrounding mountains. This geological feature makes the visit here particularly memorable for those who notice it.
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