Out of Town Blog
Visit Plentzia: A Medieval Waterfront in the Basque Country
Attractions and Places To See around Plentzia, Spain
When in the Basque Country, make sure to go to Plentzia, the charming old town that is set along the flowing water of Biscay Bay.
Since its foundation in 1299, this Medieval quarter has been serving the city as a trading port and a premier source of seafood.
Also, a thriving commercial district, locals and tourists often come here to make bank transactions before winding down for coffee and pastries at a cafe or some red wine and pintxos at a quaint bistro near the Astillero Plaza, the main cultural hall overlooking the bay.
The narrow cobblestone alleys thus lead further up to the town square, a favorite hangout of the townsfolk for a meal and aperitif at an al fresco restaurant within the vicinity of the Gothic Parish Church of Santa María Magdalena with a bell tower that served as a watchtower during the 16th century.
More historic remains circle this ancient waterfront quarter. Most of its 700-year existence can be seen through the Arco de Santiago, the remnants of the original fortress, and the carving of the Butrón coat of arms on the facade of the Barri Tower, the tower house of the Basque Country’s prominent family.
Another notable edifice in Plentzia is the Plasentia de Butrón Museum, which presents the maritime history of Plentzia from the 16th to the 19th century. Among the exhibited relics are the 16th-century warship galleon model, various navigational instruments, 19th-century paintings and photographs depicting the sailors and natives of Plentzia, and relevant journals by prominent figures. One, especially, is by Nicolás de Olagibel y Esnal, a boat builder, banker, and trader, and active in Bizkaia’s political and economic life in the mid-19th century. His costume is likewise exhibited on the museum’s second floor.
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