San Sebastian
About the city
San Sebastian or Donostia-San Sebastian is placed in northern Gipuzkoa province, in Basque region. The city is placed at Atlantic coast and almost bordering along France. The beauty of San Sebastian lies in its natural geographical position. Its sandy beaches are sloping toward the end of La Concha bay. In addition to those marvelous beaches, the city is bounded by mountains – Monte Igeldo and Monte Urgull.
Although the city’s name is mentioned even in medieval sources, the history of urban development has begun in 19th century, after the great fire in 1813. San Sebastian. Donostia, as it is called in the Basque language, was used as naval and commercial port due to its exceptional geographical location.
Today, this beautiful city has over 190,000 citizens. The citizens of San Sebastian earn their living mainly from tourism, festivals, and by trading. San Sebastian is a preferred destination of Spain and is toured by many.
It is interesting that San Sebastian is a candidate for European Capital of Culture in 2016.
Parts of San Sebastian
San Sebastian has several parts: Parte Vieja Antiguo, Amara Zaharra or Old Amara, Amara Berri, Gros, Egia, Intxaurrondo, Altza, Trintxerpe, Ibaeta. Loiola, Martutene, Igeldo and Zubieta. If you want to get know the city you can go on foot, by bicycle or taxi.
City has two outstanding beaches La Concha and La Zurriola.
La Concha Beach is supposedly the most famous beach. Next to it is Ondarreta beach, which is the most peaceful beach. On the other hand, La Zurriola is very windy so it is ideal place for surfers.
City Attractions
However, among the greatest landmarks are the Miramar Palace, Kursaal Bridge, the church of San Ignacio de Loiola, the Cathedral, and the beautiful Square of Guipúzcoa. If you have fun hiking, you can visit the statue of Christ, which is placed at the top of the Monte Urgull between the beaches.
Furthermore, there is splendid Aquarium and amusement park.
Festivals
San Sebastian has numerous festivals and carousing going on, which attract plenty of tourists. Amongst the most famous festivals is the Film Festival, which has the international recognition. It is always held in September, every year. In addition to it there is famous San Sebastian jazz festival. Then, there is San Sebastian Theater Festival in mid June.
Other important festivals are La Tamborrada and the Semana Grande celebrated with fireworks. The origin of La Tamborrada is in not clear enough, however during that night people dress up as chefs and soldiers and they are accompanied with the music of drums.