Ciudadela (The Citadel)
One of the most interesting fortifications is the Ciudadela; king Philip II ordered its construction in 1571, but it was actually finished in 1648. It was based on the Antwerp Citadel and had five bastions, though only three of them are still standing.

Nowadays, it houses art exhibitions and cultural events, which take place all year round. The Ciudadela consists of five buildings:

The Pabellón de Mixtos was reformed in 1720 and again in this century. It has two large exhibition halls, which are connected and have independent exits.

The Cuerpo de Guardia is the first building you find when entering thought the main entrance. It now serves as an office for council workers and a warehouse. The stretch of wall was completely rebuilt in the 1970s. The

Horno is a circular building used to exhibit avant-garde art. The Sala de Armas was originally an artillery arsenal and was built by Verbon in 1725, who also built the Citadel in Barcelona.

The Sala de Armas has four floors. It is the biggest building in the Ciudadela, and where the main art exhibitions and cultural events take place.

The Polvorín dates from 1694 and is the oldest building still standing within the complex. It also holds art exhibitions.

Every night during the San Fermin festivals, thousands of people go to the Ciudadela and to the Vuelta del Castillo Park to see fireworks displays. These displays undoubtedly attract the festival’s biggest crowds.