Gipuzkoa Square in San Sebastián
Gipuzkoa Square in San Sebastián is one of the city’s most iconic spots, offering a peaceful haven amid the urban hustle and bustle. Located in the heart of the city, this square stands out for its well-tended gardens and serene atmosphere, making it a meeting point for locals and visitors alike.
The gardens of Plaza de Gipuzkoa
Designed in 1877 by French landscape architect Pierre Ducasse, the gardens of Plaza de Gipuzkoa were San Sebastián’s first public park. Covering an area of 5,400 square metres, this green space is characterised by its romantic style, evoking wild nature and offering a peaceful refuge in the middle of the city.
The garden houses a varied collection of trees and ornamental plants, many of which were transferred from the estates of Aiete and Cristina Enea, donated by the Dukes of Bailén and Mandas. Among the species present are yews, weeping willows, silver lindens, elms, ash trees, a Himalayan cedar, palm trees, tropical banana trees, hazelnut trees, plum trees and magnolias.
A picturesque pond with swans and ducks, crossed by a small wooden and iron bridge, adds a charming touch to the setting. This space is ideal for relaxing, enjoying nature and observing everyday life in San Sebastián.
Building of the Provincial Council of Gipuzkoa
Presiding over the square is the majestic building of the Provincial Council of Gipuzkoa, a neoclassical architectural work that lends a stately air to the surroundings. Opened in 1883, this building has witnessed important historical events and is a symbol of the provincial government.
The interior of the palace stands out for its stately design and houses a valuable art collection, mainly by contemporary Basque painters. Although access is restricted, the building itself is an architectural gem that deserves to be admired.
The weather station in Plaza de Gipuzkoa
One of the most unique elements of the square is the weather pavilion, a marble structure donated in 1880 by geographer José de Otamendi. This pavilion houses instruments such as a barometer, a thermometer and a hygrometer, and is crowned by a sphere representing the globe, whose axis is aligned with that of the Earth.
The inscriptions on the column of the pavilion provide scientific data from the period, such as the average atmospheric pressure, the distance from San Sebastián to the equator and the length of the city according to different meridians used in the 19th century. Although much of this data is now obsolete, at the time it provided valuable information to citizens and visitors interested in meteorology.
The monumental nativity scene
During the Christmas season, Plaza de Gipuzkoa is decorated with a monumental nativity scene that attracts numerous visitors. This nativity scene, composed of life-size figures, is installed in the gardens of the square and recreates traditional Christmas scenes.
The nativity scene has become a deeply rooted tradition in San Sebastián, and every year new elements and details are added that surprise visitors. In addition, the festive lighting and musical accompaniment contribute to creating a magical atmosphere that delights both children and adults alike.
In short, Plaza de Gipuzkoa is a space that combines nature, history and culture, offering residents and tourists alike the perfect place to relax and contemplate in the centre of San Sebastián.
With nearly 10 years of experience as a local guide in San Sebastián, Hegoi has dedicated his career to showcasing the city from an authentic, local perspective through Free Walking Tour San Sebastián and Go Local San Sebastián. As a native of San Sebastián, he combines historical knowledge, local culture, and recommendations based on personal experience to create useful and reliable content on what to see, what to do, and how to experience San Sebastián like a local.