Burgos

The Castilian-Leonese city of Burgos is undoubtedly a true heritage gem. Namesake capital of the province, it is located at a privileged point connecting the plateau with the Basque Country and France.

Burgos was founded in the year 884 by Count Diego Rodríguez Porcelos. This was part of Alfonso III's plan to halt the Saracen advance. The chosen location was the Hill of San Miguel, where the Castle Park is situated, next to the Arlanzón river. In the following centuries, Burgos grew significantly, becoming the capital of Castile and a vital point from which Christians expanded southwards. A renowned figure of the city at this time was Rodrigo Díaz de Vivar, El Cid.

The city would experience great splendour until the 16th century. From these centuries date constructions of great heritage value. For example, the Casa del Cordón (Palace of the Constables of Castile), the Cathedral of Burgos (World Heritage by UNESCO), the Church of San Esteban, the Arch of Santa María, the Monastery of Cartuja de Miraflores or the Monastery of Las Huelgas.

In the 19th century, after the French occupation, Burgos began to regain importance. The castle was damaged after the Napoleonic troops blew it up, which is why it is now in ruins. At the same time, most of the streets began to adapt to more modern urbanism. In 1858, the Main Theatre was built, which has been restored today and is still used for cultural events.

Recently, the Museum of Human Evolution has opened, acting as an interpretation centre for what can be seen at the Atapuerca site. It has become one of the most visited museums on the peninsula today.

Today, Burgos is a national tourist reference point. A city where culture can be breathed and which possesses a series of heritage elements combined with spectacular green areas. Added to all this is an impressive gastronomic offer, and it is a point of importance on the Camino de Santiago.