Location

Pamplona is situated in the north of Spain with the Pyrenees foothills as a beautiful back drop. It is the capital of the Navarra region, having once been the capital of the Basque Country. The options to travel from here are excellent as it borders France to the North, the Basque Country to the west, La Rioja (famous for wine production) to the south-west and Aragón to the south and east.

Climate

The average weather in Pamplona is mild, with a tendency to rain in the winter months, thus keeping the surrounding scenery and the numerous city's parks so green and lush. Unlike other areas of Spain, the changes in season here are brusk, experiencing very cold winter months and soaring temperatures in the hottest months of July and August.

History

Pamplona was named Pompaelo after Pompey the Great by the Romans, parts of the urban center still follow the original Roman layout. The city was also ruled by both Visigoths and Muslims to mention a few before breaking away. The historical pilgrimage of the 'camino de Santiago' brought thousands of people to the city each year helping it develop on a cultural level, the pilgrimage still lures huge numbers of tourists to pass through the city. The famous writer Ernest Hemmingway helped Pamplona become more internationaly recognised, a monument near the bullring is now dedicated to him.

San Fermín

This hugely popular festival, the largest in Pamplona is named after the missionary Christian martyr San Fermín. The festival began in 1191 to honor him, but has since been converted into a massive week long celebration. Typical sights are the running of the bulls when they are released through the city's streets, the locals dressed all in white with a traditional hankey around thier necks drinking wine and enjoying the general festivities!