Museo Chillida-Leku was started by sculptor-artist Eduardo Chillida, featuring his works. Spanning over an area of 12 acres, the museum has a large garden where some of the artists works are placed, while others have been placed inside the house. Various works by the artists are brought together in several exhibitions. The museum is also a venue for cultural activities and events. The auditorium and farmhouse can be rented for private events.
This is the city's social and historical center, and it offers an endless array of shops and bars. This is where most of the communal fiestas take place, and the sought-out party spot for tourists who plan on being in town for just one or two nights. But you will see something of how the locals live if you wander around the narrow, winding, cobbled streets and through the little squares. Don't miss the Basílica de Santa María del Coro or the San Telmo Museum next door to Plaza de la Constitución.
Situated at the threshold of the Bay of La Concha, Miramar Palace is a monument to the resort's tryst with the royalty. San Sabastian's stint as the summer home of the Spanish Royal Family began when Isabella II of Spain first expressed interest in the town as a summer retreat, drawn to the locale by the promise of leisurely sea baths and sun-kissed beaches. The Miramar Palace was later commissioned by Maria Christina of Austria to serve as the official summer residence of the Royal Family. Built on a site overlooking the bay in 1893, the architect, Selden Wornum, transformed the sprawling estate into an abode fit for kings. The Palace is reminiscent of English country homes, with a few neogothic features in keeping with local tradition. Following the demise of Maria Christina, the estate and palace were inherited by Alfonso XIII of Spain, until the property was confiscated by the government. Variously used since, the Palace has retained much of its original character despite modernization to meet more practical functions. The grounds are open to the public and the palace itself hosts the summer courses of the University of the Basque Country.
Situated in a grand old Spanish building, the Museo San Telmo is a museum with a history of its own. The building, which was constructed in 1562 as a convent, displays some marvelous examples of architecture in the church, cloister and main museum building. It houses some of the most invaluable collections of paintings, sculpture and jewelry. A thorough visit to the museum will provide tourists with an insight into Basque culture and heritage through permanent as well as temporary collections.
Eureka! Science Museum is an interactive museum that opened in January 2001. It offers exhibits and interactive displays in science and technology. The main section has a permanent exhibition space on the universe, the Earth, physical and chemical phenomena, biology, mankind, perception and mathematical sciences, as well as a planetarium and an observatory. The rest of the museum is used for temporary exhibits, a conference room, an Internet café, souvenir shop and workshops where the staff produce in-house materials.
Teatro Victoria Eugenia, opened in 1912 and has been the location of the San Sebastian International Film Festival for several decades. It was originally intended to be a temporary theater, but is now used for classical concerts, dance, recitals and a host of other performances. It is the official base of the Quincena Musical and also of the Contemporary Dance Festival. This leisure complex has one classical auditorium with seats on all levels, 700 in all, and digital sound systems. On the ground floor there is a cafe and other services, such as the city's Tourist Office and a gift shop. The schedule changes, so call for details. Prices differ according to seating and shows.
Located in Guetaria, the Church of San Salvador was declared as a category of heritage, Bien de Interés Cultural, in 1895. Built during the 14th Century, the magnificent building showcases Gothic-style with trapezoidal layout and three naves in each section. The centered nave has a star-vaulted ceiling. The room for keeping vestments is located in the apse.
Enjoy the color and culture of Spanish theater at the San Agustin KG in Durango. This local theater puts up a variety of shows that highlight local talent and produces a mix of culture and art. From dramas to comedies, folk stories to Spanish classics, this theater has something for every taste. The theater also participates in local theater festivals and plays host to many touring productions. So if you're looking for a bit of local entertainment while in Durango, book seats at the San Agustin KG.
Museo Vasco del Ferrocarril is a museum where children can learn about the railway. It has a display of 50 carriages, which shows the different railway systems which the Basque Country has had, from the first steam engines to double-decker buses. The chronometry equipment and the development of the railway clocks are also important. You can look at the mechanical workshop at Azpeitia's old station, with its tools and equipment for carrying out repairs.
Once an old pottery factory, Museo de Alfarería Vasca is now a museum filled with ancient pots and utensils. The factory was where the Ortiz de Zárate family perfected their craft. One of the main attractions has been the old kiln. It stands 18 feet high and sits next to the factory.
The Ekain Arte Lanak (Galería Ekain) has been home to famed artists like Chillida, Zumeta and Cristina Iglesias since 2004, and also promoted new upcoming painters. A vast and spacious gallery, this place hosts noted exhibitions all round the year. Particularly catering to modern and contemporary art, the gallery has on display abstract and landscape paintings. Very innovative and creative, the gallery is quite popular and is located in the Historic Quarter of town. Check the website for more updates.