It was not until the arrival of the Roman General the Great that Pamplona was officially founded. This was due to the fact that he needed a camp for his troops who were at war with Sertorius and he decided to set up camp at this Vascon settlement.

Population growth has meant that the city began to have serious problems of space, since expansion was limited by the city walls. That was when the people of Pamplona realised there was a need to enlarge the city and is why at the beginning of this century demolition of the city walls began and work on the first and second enlarging began. The area that was built at that time is characterised by large, wide streets.

The city itself is very green. The area south of Pamplona is warm and dry very similar to the landscape found in parts of Castile. However north it is cool and dry and very similar to the landscape of Aquitaines forest.

With so many places to see in Pamplona it is difficult to know where to start. The Gothic church of San Saturnino and the other monuments, houses and churches almost walk you through the history of the town, all amidst the new modern buildings like the city hall.

The Museum of Navarre, with its collection of archaeological pieces and works of art, is a worthwhile attraction to visit. But with the Cathedral of Santa Mara la Real, the Palace of Navarre and the mausoleum of King Carlos III the Noble also here its a difficult choice.

The old section of the city which hosts the San Farming festival has cobbled streets is a pleasant tourist destination. Held in July when the festival of the running of the bulls is held in honour of the cities patron saint.

The festival is so popular that many hotels take reservations a year in advance and so finding good accommodation can difficult.

Try the traditional recipes flavoured with asparagus, red peppers and beans. Roast lamb or lamb cooked with tomatoes and peppers is the probably the feature dish here, always accompanied by a wine of the Designation of Origin Navarra.

A great place to come any time of year, but dont forget have fun and enjoy yourself.