The Fort of San Marcos is a fortification located in the town of Errenteria, in the province of Guipúzcoa, in the Spanish Basque Country. Built in the XNUMXth century to protect the Pyrenees border from possible French invasions, this site It is one of the main tourist attractions in the region. Its impressive star-shaped architecture, its panoramic views and its history as a military training center and political prison make it a unique place full of cultural significance.
In this article we will explore the history and tourist attraction of the Fort of San Marcos. In addition, we will give practical information for those who want to visit it.
What is the Fort of San Marcos?
The Fort of San Marcos is a fortification located in the town of Errenteria, province of Guipúzcoa, Spain. This fort was built in the XNUMXth century during the War of the Convention, between France and Spain. Its construction was commissioned by King Carlos III to protect the border of the Pyrenees from the attack of French troops.
This fortification It was designed in the shape of a star. and has five points. Inside it housed a chapel, a house for the governor, an area with barracks and warehouses, as well as artillery batteries. During the War of Independence, the fort was taken over by the French and used as a base for their military campaign. In 1813, the Spanish troops managed to recover the fort after a bloody battle.
Nowadays, the Fort of San Marcos is a tourist and cultural site that offers guided tours to learn about its history and architecture. In addition, it is an ideal place to enjoy panoramic views of the Oiartzun River and the surrounding mountains.
History
As we have already mentioned, the Fort of San Marcos is a fortification located in Errenteria, Guipúzcoa. It was built between 1766 and 1772 during the reign of Carlos III of Spain, in the context of the Convention War between France and Spain. The main objective of its construction wase protect the border of the Pyrenees from the attack of the French troops.
The design of this construction was carried out by the Italian military engineer Juan Bautista Antonelli, who built it in the shape of a star with five points, in order to maximize their defense against enemy attacks. The fort also had a chapel, a hospital, a powder magazine, housing for the soldiers, and a warehouse.
During the Spanish War of Independence, the fort was taken over by the French in 1808 and was used as a military base. In 1813, after a long and bloody battle, Spanish troops led by General Francisco Espoz y Mina managed to recapture the fort. After the war, the San Marcos Fort was used as a military training center and as a prison for political prisoners. During the Franco dictatorship, the fort was used to house Republican prisoners.
In the 1990s, the Fort of San Marcos was restored and opened to the public as a tourist and cultural site. Today the fort has guided tours and exhibits showcasing its history and architecture.
Fort of San Marcos as a tourist attraction
The Fort of San Marcos is an important tourist attraction in the province of Guipúzcoa. Its impressive architecture, its history and its cultural importance make it a popular destination for national and international tourists. Visitors can explore the fort and its surroundings through guided tours that offer insight into the history and architecture of Fort San Marcos. You can also find exhibits showing military objects and tools of the time. Without a doubt, it is a place that is well worth visiting if we are in the area.
In addition, the Fort of San Marcos is a popular place to celebrate cultural events and festivals in the region. In particular, during the summer season, numerous outdoor activities such as concerts and theater performances take place. Specifically, on April 25 is celebrated the day of San Marcos. Obviously, this festivity has a special charm for all the inhabitants of that region. According to tradition, special cakes are prepared that the godfathers and godmothers give to those godchildren who are single. Also, the Sunday closest to Saint Mark's Day is a remarkable festivity, as the pilgrimage is held in honor of this saint, and it is done precisely in the fort and its surroundings.
Location, hours and rates
If we want to visit this impressive place, we must know where it is located, when it is open for visits and how much the entrance costs. The Fort of San Marcos is located in the Camino San Marcos without number, in Errenteria, and has parking.
Regarding the price, the free visit and also the guided one are free. However, keep in mind that the museum is only open in high season. If we want to carry out a guided tour in a group, we must reserve it in advance by calling this telephone number: 0034 943 449 638.
Regarding the schedule, it must be taken into account that the Fort of San Marcos is not open throughout the year. we can visit from April 14 to October 16 from 10:00 a.m. to 14:00 p.m. and from 16:00 p.m. to 18:00 p.m. on selected days:
- From April 14 to June 19: Saturdays and Sundays.
- From June 20 to October 16: Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday and holidays.
Are you thinking of taking a little getaway with your four-legged friend? Well, you know that there is no problem in taking dogs to the Fort of San Marcos! Yes indeed: They must always be on a leash. In addition, the parking lot has a fountain from which they can drink. In the surroundings of this impressive place there are several routes through the mountains that we can enjoy with our furry friend.
In short: the Fort of San Marcos is a major tourist attraction that offers visitors the opportunity to explore the history and culture of the region. It is a site that should not be missing from the list of places to visit in Guipúzcoa.