Mota Castle

The Castle of La Mota, in San Sebastián

The Castle of La Mota crowns the summit of Mont Urgull, dominating San Sebastián since the twelfth century. The San Sebastián audio-guided tour stops here to evoke this flagship monument of the town, a witness of its defensive history.

The fortress that watches since the Middle Ages

The Castle of La Mota is the flagship monument of San Sebastián, a true symbol of the town. It was built at the beginning of the twelfth century under the orders of the King of Navarre, at the summit of Mont Urgull, to defend the city and its port. For centuries, this fortress played a strategic military role, watching over the bay and the coast. Today, the castle shelters an interpretation space dedicated to the history of the town, and offers, from the top of its ramparts, exceptional views over the bay of La Concha and the sea. It is a major witness of the past of San Sebastián.

What to see

You admire the medieval fortress that crowns Mont Urgull, its interpretation space on the history of the town, and the exceptional views over the bay of La Concha and the sea. The Castle of La Mota is the flagship monument of San Sebastián. It is a major stop, after the ascent of Mont Urgull.

Practical information

The Castle of La Mota lies at the summit of Mont Urgull, in San Sebastián, reachable on foot by a climb. Access and the interpretation space follow their own hours, which vary with the season. It is best to bring good shoes and to check the arrangements before coming.

When was the Castle of La Mota built?

At the beginning of the twelfth century, under the orders of the King of Navarre, at the summit of Mont Urgull, to defend San Sebastián and its port; it is the flagship monument of the town.

Where is the Castle of La Mota?

At the summit of Mont Urgull, in San Sebastián, in Spain.