Plan a trip to Burgos

Burgos, the capital of the Spanish province of Burgos, is located in the autonomous community of Castile and Leon. Dating back to the 9th century, it was founded by Diego Rodriguez Porcelos, the second Count of Castile, on the banks of the Arlanzon River in order to expand the Christian population. Situated at a high elevation of 2838 feet above sea level, it was a strategic fortress as well as a major stop along the historic Camino de Santiago (the Way of St. James) pilgrimage route. Burgos served as the capital city of the United Kingdom of Castile and Leon until the mid 16th century when Madrid rose to importance. Architects and sculptors built Gothic-style buildings, and Burgos became known as the Gothic capital of Spain.

With the loss of its political position, Burgos was forced to pursue other economic initiatives. The city became a wool processing center that served the sheep breeders in the Spanish capital, and, until the 17th century, much of the city’s revenue came from wool exports.

Burgos’ most iconic architectural landmark is the stunning French Gothic Cathedral of St. Mary which is dominant in the center of the old city. Construction of the church began in 1221 and, after a break of almost 200 years, was continued. During the 15th and 16th centuries, the church underwent many major embellishments, including the main façade, the Capilla del Condestable, and the impressive dome. The chapel of Condestables de Castilla located in the church is another notable building.

Other famous historic and magnificent buildings in Burgos include the Royal Monastery of Las Huelgas and the Monastery of Cartuja de Miraflores which had originally served as the summer palace of the royal family.

The Paseo del Espolon is a tree-lined promenade along the Arlanzon River which is delightful to stroll along with its fountains, statues, and beautiful landscaping.

The Museum of Human Evolution, which opened in 2020, has become one of the city’s most interesting and popular attractions. Located in the center of the city in a sleek, modern building, it is large and bright, radiating a sense of transparency and openness to society. It was built by the well-known Spanish architect Juan Navarro Baldeweg and contains findings from archaeological sites that tell the story of the origins of humankind, its presence on earth, and its development.