What to see in the town of Guernica?
Introduction
Guernica, a small municipality in Biscay, has transcended the borders of the Basque Country to become a universal symbol of peace and resistance. Its history, marked by the bombing of the Spanish Civil War, contrasts with its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.
This Basque town, with a history that goes back centuries, has witnessed historical events of great relevance. The Casa de Juntas of Guernica, with its emblematic Tree, was for centuries the heart of Basque self-government, a place where the freedoms and traditions of this town were forged.
We will guide you through the most emblematic places in Guernica, from the Casa de Juntas to the Peace Museum, and introduce you to the various activities you can do during your visit. We will discover together why Guernica is a place worth visiting and
The Tree of Gernika: An Eternal Symbol
Under the shade of a thousand-year-old oak tree, the laws and traditions of the Basque people have been forged. The Tree of Gernika is much more than just a tree; it is a symbol of freedom, identity and self-government. For centuries, the people of Bizkaia gathered in its shade to swear allegiance to the fueros, a set of laws that guaranteed their rights and privileges.
Legend has it that the tree was planted by the mythical founder of Bizkaia, the Lord of Bizkaia, and that its existence is linked to the Basque identity itself. Although several trees have been planted over the centuries, the spirit and meaning of the original endures to this day. Visiting the Tree of Gernika is like touching a piece of living history.
The Casa de Juntas: The Heart of Basque Self-Government
Next to the Tree of Gernika is the Casa de Juntas, a historic building that has witnessed countless juntas and assemblies over the centuries. Here, representatives of the Biscayan people met to make important decisions and defend the interests of their territory.
The Casa de Juntas is a building of great architectural beauty, with an imposing façade and an interior full of history. Its rooms house valuable documents and objects that allow us to better understand Bizkaia’s past. By visiting the Casa de Juntas, you can imagine what the old meetings were like and feel the strength of the Basque institutions.
The Peace Museum: A Tribute to Life
After having immersed ourselves in the history and tradition of Guernica, it is time to reflect on one of the most tragic episodes of its past: the bombing of 1937. To understand the magnitude of this event and its impact on the population, we recommend visiting the Peace Museum.
This museum, located in the heart of Guernica, invites us to reflect on the importance of peace and reconciliation. Through a carefully curated exhibition, we will learn about the history of the bombing and its consequences, as well as the impact it had on the lives of the people who suffered it.
A moving experience
The Peace Museum offers us a moving experience through various interactive and audiovisual activities. We will be able to see images and documents from the period, listen to testimonies from survivors and immerse ourselves in a virtual recreation of the bombing. This experience will allow us to better understand the suffering of the population and the importance of preserving peace.
El Mural de Guernica: Un Homenaje en Cerámica
Al pasear por las calles de Guernica, te encontrarás con una obra de arte que te dejará sin palabras: el Mural del Guernica de Picasso. Esta impresionante reproducción del famoso cuadro del artista malagueño es un homenaje a la historia de la villa y un recordatorio del trágico suceso que la marcó.
Un pedazo de historia en la calle
Ubicado en un lugar visible de la localidad, el mural se ha convertido en uno de los puntos de interés más visitados de Guernica. Su tamaño y realismo te permitirán apreciar los detalles de la obra original y comprender la fuerza de su mensaje.
La historia detrás del mural
Como sabes, el cuadro “Guernica” fue pintado por Pablo Picasso en 1937 como una respuesta al bombardeo de la villa durante la Guerra Civil Española. Esta obra maestra del arte moderno representa el dolor, la violencia y el sufrimiento de la población civil.
El mural de Guernica, una fiel reproducción en cerámica del cuadro original, fue instalado en la localidad como un homenaje a las víctimas del bombardeo y como un símbolo de paz y reconciliación. Al contemplar esta obra, no solo estarás admirando una obra de arte, sino que también estarás conectando con un momento crucial de la historia de España.
The Park of the Peoples of Europe: A Green Refuge
If you are looking for a place to relax and connect with nature, the Park of the Peoples of Europe is your destination. This green space, located in the heart of Guernica, is an oasis of tranquility where you can enjoy the beauty of nature and admire impressive works of art.
A walk among sculptures
The park houses a collection of sculptures by renowned international artists such as Eduardo Chillida and Henry Moore. These large-format works made of different materials blend perfectly into the natural environment and create a unique and special atmosphere.
Paths and green areas
The Park of the Peoples of Europe has numerous paths that invite you to stroll and enjoy nature. You can walk under the shade of the trees, cross small bridges and admire the variety of plants and flowers that adorn the park. In addition, you will find green areas perfect for relaxing and enjoying a picnic.
A place for everyone
The Park of the Peoples of Europe is an ideal place for all ages. Children can play in the playgrounds, while adults can enjoy a quiet stroll or read a book on one of the benches.
Visit the Town of Guernica
Discover the rich cultural and natural heritage of the wonderful town of Guernica. From the emblematic Casa de Juntas and the thousand-year-old Tree of Gernika, symbols of Basque freedoms, to the moving Peace Museum, which reminds us of the importance of preserving peace, it will be an enriching experience for you.
In Guernica you can immerse yourself in Basque culture by visiting the Euskal Herria Museum, admire Picasso’s striking Guernica Mural and enjoy a quiet walk through the Park of the Peoples of Europe, surrounded by sculptures by renowned artists.
This small Basque town offers you a unique experience, where you can learn about its history, admire its artistic heritage and connect with nature. Guernica is much more than a place, it is a symbol of resistance, peace and the importance of preserving our cultural heritage.
Would you like to visit Guernica and discover why this place has captivated so many visitors? I assure you that you will take with you an unforgettable memory of this corner of the Basque Country.