Excursion 2: to the Palace of Navarra, the Royal Palace of Olite, & the Otazu Winery
Experience the history of Navarra and its old kingdom as well as the background of its autonomous status today at the Palace of Navarra and the Royal Palace of Olite. The tour also gives us a real taste of the wine-making sector of this region - an important part of the Navarra history. To have a total-immersion of the local culture, join the group to Pamplona's own soccer team's game against Seville in the evening.
THE PALACE OF NAVARRA
The Palace of Navarra (Palacio de Navarre) currently houses the Presidency of the Regional Government of Navarra and several of its administrative offices. The complex was designed by José de Nagusia in 1840 in a neo-Classical-style. This guided tour covers the history, interior design and art works, as well as the architecture of this former palace. For more information, visit the website of the Palace of Navarra.
The Royal Palace of Olite
The Palacio Real (Royal Palace) of Olite, built during the 13th and 14th centuries in the town of Olite, was one of the seats of the Court of the Kingdom of Navarre, since the reign of Charles III "the Noble" until its union with Castile in 1512. It is one of the most luxurious mediaeval castles in Europe. Although almost everyone calls it a "castle", the structure is actually a "palace", as it is a building of courtly character, where the residential aspects prevailed over the military (defense). Charles III of Navarre in the 15th century began the extension of the former castle, leading to the Palace of the Kings of Navarre. The slideshow below showcases both the interior and exterior photos of this magnificent castle/palace, and this video provides an aerial view of the palace and its surroundings.
Otazu Winery
The history of Navarra's wine-making dates back to the days of the Roman occupation, and its vineyards most likely were cultivated before the Romans. During the Crusades of the Middle Ages, pilgrims came through Navarra on their way to Santiago de Compostela. With them came monks, who had established vineyards throughout the area. Visit Otazu Winery's website to learn more about the old and new of wine-making in this region. The slideshow below presents photos from the SPEA Pamplona program's 2012 class visit to this winery.
La Liga soccer game - Osasuna Vs Sevilla
Do you know Pamplona's La Liga soccer team? It's Osasuna (meaning health, strength, or vigor in Basque.) We will have the opportunity to watch one of their home games against Seville on May 29.
See Goal Highlights for the 2012 game that Osasuna beat Barcelona!
See Goal Highlights for the 2012 game that Osasuna beat Barcelona!