Cosmopolitan Spain Traveler - Spring '19

Cosmopolitan Spain Traveler

S an Sebastián , with 186,000 inhabitants, has a level of cultural activity that is rare for a city of its size. The beauty of La Concha Bay, the way that it faces out to sea like an amphitheatre, with mountains just a step away, its quality of life, and its famous cuisine have made it a top tourist destina- tion over the last two centuries. Shaped by its history, San Sebastián started out as a fishing village. It grew into a market town and military defense post. After it was almost completely destroyed in a battle in 1813, it was reborn as a service city where the royal family spent its sum- mer holidays. Isabel II chose this city as her holiday resort. From Fishing Village to Royal Retreat

Surfers crossing the Art Deco Zurriola Bridge with fishermen in the foreground. Iconic Hotel Maria Cristina and Victoria Eugenia Theatre in the background.

Image courtesy of Donostia San Sebastián Turismoa

Classical buildings stand alongside eclectic works in the style of the Belle Époque. At the same time, you can find avant-garde and modern buildings that are in contrast with the more traditional aesthetics.

City of Culture

Cultural activities increased at the same pace as tourist activities, giv- ing the city the exceptional range of stage and cultural events that it enjoys today. The countless world- famous festivals that are held over the year, such as the San Sebastián International Film Festival , Jazzaldia Festival and the Musical Fortnight can not be missed. www.sansebastianfestival.com www.heinekenjazzaldia.eus www.quincenamusical.eus

It was at the end of the 19th century and beginning of the 20th century when San Sebastián established itself as a city of culture, with a wealth of services and the number one tourist destination in the north of Spain. Its majestic buildings and their eclectic style reflect the tastes of the royal fam- ily and bourgeoisie during that period, and give it a stately character that has adapted well to changing times.

Kursaal Congress Centre and Auditorium Image courtesy of Donostia San Sebastián Turismoa

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