Kingdom of Navarre. Land of diversity

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The Citadel, the main architectural focal point in the city of Pamplona, is considered the best example of military architecture from the Spanish Renaissance and one of the most outstanding defensive fortifications to have been designed in Europe. Together with the Vuelta del Castillo, the park that surrounds it, they represent the green 'lungs' through which the city breathes, with a combined surface area of 280,000 square metres. Jogging and other sports are therefore common at any time of day.

The Citadel came into being to protect the city from its enemies following an order by King Philip II in 1571 to start construction work in order to take a stand against the constant incursions of the French army. Its original structure took the form of a regular pentagon, with five bastions in its corners, but the construction of the "Primer Ensanche" (first extension) of the city necessitated the demolition of two of them.

In its interior, other fortifications and buildings are nowadays used as public places for leisure and culture activities. Entry to the citadel is from the Avenida del Ejército or the Vuelta del Castillo, and only on foot, because no other mode of transport is permitted in this area.

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