Plaza de la Constitución

Overview

The Plaza de la Constitución is the grand, colourful heart of the old town — a fully enclosed arcaded square painted in cheerful yellows and greens. Its numbered balconies recall its former life as a bullring, where spectators watched from rented windows.

Highlights

• Numbered Balconies: Each window bears a painted number from the square's bullfighting era.
• Year-Round Life: From tamborrada drums on 20 January to alfresco dining in summer.
• Former Town Hall: The building at the north end housed the city hall until 1947.

History

Built in 1817 after the 1813 fire, the square replaced a medieval market. Bullfights were held here until the late 19th century, with attendees renting numbered balcony seats — visible in the numbering still painted on the façades.

Visitor Tips

• Tamborrada: On 20 January, drum-rolling societies parade here for San Sebastián Day.
• Dining: Several pintxos bars line the arcades.
• Duration: 15–20 minutes to appreciate; longer for dining.