Murallas de Burgos
Explore the remnants of medieval fortifications, including the grand Arco de Santa María and scenic wall sections offering city views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather for walking
Murallas de Burgos
Best Time
Pleasant weather for walking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the remnants of medieval fortifications, including the grand Arco de Santa María and scenic wall sections offering city views.
"Definitely worth a visit to grasp what was built at one time around the entirety of the city!"
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
Expect stairs and uneven terrain. Good walking shoes are essential for exploring the Murallas de Burgos.
📸 Capture the Views
The higher sections offer stunning panoramic views of Burgos. Don't forget your camera!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Arco de Santa María
Main entrance to the old town
A magnificent Gothic gate, once a key entrance, showcasing Islamic art and impressive architecture.
Castle and Wall Sections
Upper parts of the city
Explore preserved wall segments and the castle ruins for panoramic city views. A rewarding climb for history buffs.
Preserved Wall Canvases
Various points around the old town
Discover remnants of the medieval defensive fence, offering a tangible connection to Burgos's past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to the Walls
Understanding the Scale
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
Expect stairs and uneven terrain. Good walking shoes are essential for exploring the Murallas de Burgos.
📸 Capture the Views
The higher sections offer stunning panoramic views of Burgos. Don't forget your camera!
🗺️ Check Accessibility
Some parts of the walls might be closed for restoration. Verify access before your visit.
💧 Bring Water
Especially during warmer months, stay hydrated as you explore the historic fortifications.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
Expect stairs and uneven terrain. Good walking shoes are essential for exploring the Murallas de Burgos.
📸 Capture the Views
The higher sections offer stunning panoramic views of Burgos. Don't forget your camera!
🗺️ Check Accessibility
Some parts of the walls might be closed for restoration. Verify access before your visit.
💧 Bring Water
Especially during warmer months, stay hydrated as you explore the historic fortifications.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate the historical significance and preserved sections of the Murallas de Burgos, particularly the Arco de Santa María, and the rewarding city views from higher points. However, some sections can be challenging due to steep stairs and potential closures for restoration.
"This was already a walk to get there and then you see the amazing challenge of the stairs. The view through to the other side was closed. At the top, which you can't see from that angle below, is the Castillo. If you are in shape, go for it.
Definitely worth a visit to grasp what was built at one time around the entirety of the city, in particular at that time period!"
Karen Decter
"The Burgos Walls are a defensive fence that surrounds a good part of the old town of Burgos. Its current structure dates back to the late Middle Ages (13th-15th centuries), although it existed since the 10th century, as Burgos was founded in 884. About 3,500 m long, making up 45 hectares within the walls, with 93 towers and 12 gates, between 8 and 12 feet thick and a maximum height of 13 m. From the destruction of Wellington's siege (1812) and the subsequent flight, by dynamiting, of the French (1813), from the 14th century onwards, the walls were destroyed. In the 18th century the pickaxe began to operate (1831), gradually demolishing it at certain points (from the church of San Gil to the gate of San Pablo and between the arch of Santa María and Barrantes), although good sections of canvases and cubes, important doors and other towers are preserved: 1/4 of the original layout - several hundred meters - and 5 large doors."
Ladelamanofurada
"It's fairly well preserved considering it was built around the 13th century. We can admire many of its towers, walls, and some of its entrance gates, especially in the area near the castle."
Tomás Rincón García
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Murallas de Burgos are accessible from various points in the old town. Many visitors start near the Arco de Santa María or head towards the castle. Public transport can get you close to the city center, from where you can walk or take a short taxi ride to the base of the walls.
Parking can be challenging in the historic center. It's recommended to use public parking garages located a short walk from the main wall sections, such as those near the Plaza Mayor.
Yes, the Murallas de Burgos are integrated into the city. A pleasant walk from the Cathedral or Plaza Mayor will lead you to different access points of the walls.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Access to many sections of the Murallas de Burgos is free, especially the visible wall segments and gates like the Arco de Santa María. However, specific areas, like the castle ruins or any potential interpretation centers, might have an entrance fee.
As many parts are open-air remnants, they are generally accessible at all times. However, specific restored sections or the castle area might have set visiting hours. It's best to check locally for any specific access times.
Yes, guided tours focusing on the medieval walls and historical significance of Burgos are often available. These tours can provide deeper insights into the history and architecture.
The Arco de Santa María itself is a monumental gate and typically free to pass through. Any exhibitions or specific access within the structure might incur a fee.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Exploring the accessible sections of the Murallas de Burgos can take anywhere from 1 to 3 hours, depending on how much you wish to climb and the specific areas you visit.
Yes, some sections, particularly those leading up to the castle and along the higher wall segments, involve a significant number of stairs and can be quite steep.
The Mirador del Castillo offers excellent panoramic views that encompass parts of the Murallas de Burgos and the city below.
Children can enjoy exploring the walls, especially the Arco de Santa María. However, the steep climbs and uneven terrain might be challenging for very young children or strollers.
The Murallas de Burgos are a testament to the city's strategic importance throughout history, dating back to the 10th century and reinforced in the late Middle Ages. They protected Burgos for centuries.
📸 📸 Photography
The Arco de Santa María provides a grand architectural subject. For cityscapes, head to the Mirador del Castillo. Exploring different angles of the wall remnants also yields great shots.
Late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light, casting a warm glow on the historic stone. Early mornings can also be good for fewer crowds and softer light.
Drone usage is typically restricted in historic city centers and near monuments. It's advisable to check local regulations before attempting to fly a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, be mindful of the terrain. The climbs can be steep and involve many stairs, which might be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues. Focusing on the more accessible parts near the city center and the Arco de Santa María can make for a more enjoyable experience. Bringing snacks and water is always a good idea for family outings.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Walking along the preserved wall segments offers a rich historical experience without significant cost. The main expense would be transportation to Burgos and any food or drink purchases. For stunning views, the climb to the castle area is also free, providing great photo opportunities.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Evolution of the Murallas de Burgos
However, the walls suffered considerable damage over time. The siege by Wellington in 1812 and subsequent French demolitions in 1813 led to significant destruction. Later, in the 18th century, the walls were further dismantled in many areas to make way for urban expansion and development. Despite this, substantial sections and important gates were preserved, offering a tangible link to Burgos's medieval past. Today, visitors can still admire about a quarter of the original layout, including several hundred meters of wall canvases, key towers, and impressive gates.
The Arco de Santa María stands out as one of the most iconic preserved gates. This magnificent Gothic structure, once a primary entrance to the old town, showcases intricate architectural details and hints at the artistic influences of the time, including Islamic art. Exploring these remaining sections allows for an immersive experience into the defensive strategies and urban planning of medieval Burgos.
Exploring the Accessible Sections and Views
For the most rewarding views and a sense of the walls' scale, heading towards the Castillo de Burgos is highly recommended. The climb to the castle ruins offers breathtaking panoramic vistas of the entire city, with sections of the wall visible along the slopes. This elevated perspective truly helps in understanding the strategic placement and defensive capabilities of the medieval fortifications.
+1Many visitors note that while some parts of the wall are easily accessible and free to view, others involve steep climbs and stairs. It's important to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for some physical exertion to fully appreciate the historical significance and the stunning scenery.
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