The Castillo de la Mota, located on Monte Urgull in Donostia-San Sebastián, is a historic fortress with a commanding presence overlooking the Bay of Biscay. Built in the 12th century, the castle and the surrounding hill played a vital defensive role in protecting the city from invasions and conflicts over the centuries.

Monte Urgull’s strategic location made it a natural site for fortifications. The Castillo de la Mota was constructed to guard the city and its port against naval and land-based attacks. Its origins date back to 1194, when Sancho VII the Strong of Navarre ordered the fortification of the town and the construction of the castle. In 1200, it came under the control of the Castilian King Alfonso VIII, along with the rest of Gipuzkoa. Later, in 1284, Alfonso X the Wise granted it to Queen Joan I of Navarre, though it returned to Castilian hands by the end of the 13th century.

The fortress underwent several expansions during the medieval and early modern periods, adapting to advancements in military technology. A significant moment in it’s history came during the siege of San Sebastián in 1813, when the city was attacked and burned during the Peninsular War. The castle, along with its defensive structures, bore witness to the fierce battles that shaped the region.

Nowadays, Monte Urgull, is a tranquil wooded park offering scenic walking paths and full of historical landmarks. Visitors can explore the remnants of defensive walls, artillery placements, and smaller fortifications scattered across the hill. At the summit, the Sacred Heart statue, erected in the 20th century, stands as a symbol of peace, providing stunning panoramic views of San Sebastián, La Concha Bay, and the surrounding coastline. Moreover, Castillo de la Mota is also home to an interesting history museum, the Casa de la Historia, which shows the history of castle and the city.