Hondarribia: Walled city

The town itself was first founded by the Romans, as indicated by the remains found in the town and the existence of the Roman Asturiaga port or anchorage point located beneath the lighthouse, in the Erdikopunta area. The first fortifications are thought to have been built by the Gothic King Wamba during the 7th century. In 1203, Alfonso VIII of Castile granted Hondarribia its founding charter and the title of villa or charter borough. From that date onwards, the town enjoyed considerable privileges granted by the Castilian monarchs. Although no written references survive, linguists claim that the original name of the town was HONDARRIBIA (meaning “sand ford”). Being a border sea port, Hondarribia was a fortified town, and successive kings granted it certain privileges in order to encourage the townsfolk to defend it against pirate attacks and French invasions. The town also played a key role in the wars against France, the first of which took place in 1280, according to surviving records. Sometimes it was victorious, and other times it was defeated and sacked, as in the siege of 1894. Its most memorable victory was won in 1638, at the end of the Thirty Years’ War. This victory, which is commemorated every year on 8 September, was attributed to the Virgin of Guadalupe, the patron saint of Hondarribia.

Hondarribia offers many different attractions. It is a tourist destination, a place for company work meetings and a town filled with history, as its ancient walls so eloquently remind us. It is also one of the most beautiful places on the Cantabrian coast, as well as being modern, well looked after, friendly and welcoming. Come and enjoy the town, its mountains, its beach. Come and walk around it, sample the wonderful local cuisine in its bars and restaurants. Come and relax in its charming hotels, gaze at the sea and the men and women of the sea and the fields. Come and stroll around its streets. Come and enjoy life. Hondarribia offers a wide range of possibilities as a holiday destination, a weekend break and even as a venue for your business meetings. Come and discover its history, from the earliest years of recorded history right up to the modern day. Come and discover its traditions, its past as a fortified settlement, its tourist attractions, cuisine and fishing and farming industries...