Zarauz

Zarauz (Wikimedia Commons)

Without a doubt, this town stands out for being one of the main summer tourist spots. Thanks to the choice made one day by Queen Elizabeth II of Spain, choosing this area to spend the summer, she increased tourism considerably and encouraged other celebrities to follow in her footsteps.

In this coastal town you can see a wealth in the archaeological and monumental complex that it has. Referring to civil architecture, the Narros Palace stands out, a Renaissance-style building that served as a residence for Elizabeth II and the writer Father Coloma. La Casa Portu (current town hall), a prime example of the outstanding Basque palaces of the 16th century. The Luzea Tower, a 15th century Gothic military castle and finally, the Makatza House: a defensive building from the 15th century.

You can also see religious buildings such as the Church of Santa María de la Real from the 16th century, which has an altarpiece by the Araoz, the Convent of Santa Clara, belonging to the barefoot Carmelites, and the Convent of the Franciscan Fathers.

Or, visit museums, such as the Zarauz Museum of Art and History. Ultimately, taking a walk through this town will serve to analyze the buildings that enhance the architecture of the 19th and 20th centuries.