The Catedral de Santa María, archaeological traces on Cerro de Santa Bárbara and the riverside forests along the Ebro reveal different sides of Tudela. The city therefore offers starting points for trips focused on architectural and urban history, art, festival traditions or outdoor activities. If you are looking for accommodation, your personal interests can help you decide: are you more interested in architecture and collections, festival culture, or nature and exercise?
Cathedral and archaeological traces
The Catedral de Santa María was declared a National Monument in 1884 and is Tudela’s most important monument. It was built on the remains of the city’s former Aljama Mosque. Romanesque and Gothic styles come together at its Portada del Juicio. The cathedral offers a way to consider both the history of its site and the specific combination of architectural styles.
Cerro de Santa Bárbara offers a different perspective on Tudela’s past. The site is considered the origin of the city’s settlement and is one of the most complete and significant archaeological sites in Navarre. Remains dating from the 9th century BC have been found there. Excavations also uncovered sections of the outer defensive perimeter and the walls of houses in the former Jewish quarter. Those interested in urban history beyond religious architecture will find a distinct archaeological perspective here.
Art and architecture at the Museo Muñoz Sola
The Museo Muñoz Sola combines a historic building with a distinctive collection. It is housed in the former Casa-Palacio de los Veráiz, whose façade retains a Gothic heraldic fragment. The collection of 19th-century French painting was assembled by César Muñoz Sola, a painter born in Tudela. It also includes representative examples of his own work. French painting and works by the artist born in Tudela thus represent two distinct aspects of the collection.
The museum offers a permanent exhibition, temporary exhibitions and cultural activities. If you are planning your trip around a particular temporary exhibition or activity, check the current programme, as it may change.
Festival traditions and culinary events
The Ceremonias del Ángel and del Volatín have been part of Tudela’s culture since the 14th century. On 19 February 2002, they were declared Festivals of National Tourist Interest. El Volatín has appeared from the balcony of the Casa del Reloj in Plaza de los Fueros on Holy Saturday since 1851. The traditional day and setting give this custom a specific place in the city’s festival culture.
The Fiestas de la Verdura put the spotlight on food. Their programme includes food tours, special menus, vegetable pinchos, cooking classes, tastings and public sampling events. The specific programme may vary from one edition to the next. So, if you want to visit for a particular activity or tasting, check the dates and programme for that edition.
Nature on the Ebro and the pilgrimage route
Sotos del Ebro is an ecologically valuable riverside forest that follows the Ebro through Tudela. It offers opportunities for hiking, cycling and wildlife watching. These activities offer different ways to enjoy the area: walking, travelling by bike or observing wildlife. The nature experience therefore ranges from active exercise to quieter observation.
The Camino de Santiago del Ebro also passes through Tudela, crossing the medieval Puente del Ebro. The bridge has 17 arches and was probably built on an earlier Muslim structure. This pilgrimage route thus connects a specific structure with a historical background that should be described with due caution.
Discover more destinations: Sorlada, Oláibar, Barillas, Garaioa, Berriozar, Lérruz, Fitero, San Martín De Unx
For the broader travel overview: Navarre.
