Iruñea

Iruñea is the Basque name for Pamplona, the capital city of the Navarre province in northern Spain. Located at the confluence of the Arga, Sadar, and Elorz rivers, the city is situated in a fertile valley surrounded by hills. Historically, Iruñea has been a significant strategic and cultural center, with its origins tracing back to Roman times.

The city is most famously known worldwide for the San Fermín festival, a nine-day event held annually from July 6th to 14th. This festival is celebrated for its running of the bulls, or "encierros," where participants run in front of a group of charging bulls through the city's narrow streets. The festival also features parades, traditional music, and dancing.

Iruñea's historical heart is its Old Town, characterized by its medieval layout, narrow cobblestone streets, and well-preserved architecture. Key landmarks include the Pamplona Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece, and the Citadel of Pamplona, a 16th-century star-shaped fortress that now serves as a public park. The city walls surrounding the Old Town are among the best-preserved in Spain.

Economically, Iruñea is a diverse hub, with industries including manufacturing, services, and agriculture. It is also a center for education and research, hosting the University of Navarre. The city's cuisine is renowned for its pintxos, small snacks or appetizers, which are a popular social tradition. Iruñea offers a blend of historical heritage and vibrant modern life.