Guernica
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Guernica - by Almudena Sanz from Pixabay
Description
Guernica (or Gernika in Basque) is the historical seat of the parliament of the province of Biscay (one of three in the Spanish Basque country). It rose to unfortunate international fame after being bombed by Nazi Germany's Luftwaffe in April 1937, on its traditional weekly market day (Monday), something Franco requested with the avowed objective to demoralize the enemy and overthrow the local and Spanish Republican government. Several artworks were created to commemorate the scene, the most famous of which is Picasso's painting, a mural replica of which can be seen in the town. Other attractions include the Oak of Guernica (a metaphor for its provincial assembly), its cesta-punta court considered to be the best in this regional sport, the Euskal Heria Museum, the Gernika Peace Museum, and the church of Santa Maria.
Access & Transport
The town is 33km east of Bilbao by car, at the southern end of the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve. Take the N-634 or AP-8 out of Bilbao and exit onto the BI-635 next to Amorebieta Etxano (after just over 20km). There are regular bus services to/from Bilbao. Guernica is also 90km west of San Sebastian (AP-8 exit 97 onto BI-365)
Instructions & Recommendations
We suggest combining a visit of the town after a walk to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe and maybe some time around the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve.
Environmental & Social
Most of the attractions/sights have a low carbon footprint. Tourism is sustainable and brings economic activity in town.
Conclusion
Gernika won't qualify as a regional highlight for most people but, if you are transiting between San Sebastian and Bilbao and have some interest in history and the Basque Culture, it is a worthy 2-3h stop.
Key positive
Important town in the regional culture
Key negative
No standout monument
Suitability
Most sights are accessible
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
August 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 45m
est. visit time:2h
Sunrise / early morningOk
MorningOk
Lunch timeOk
AfternoonOk
Sunset / eveningOk
Night – bef. midnightNo
Night – aft. midnightNo