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Anthony’s Exchange Life in Spain — Vitoria-Gasteiz

❤ This is Vitoria-Gasteiz! Let’s start the travel journey! ❤

Vitoria-Gasteiz. The picture was made by Anthony Wong. ❤

❤ Here comes the travel blog of Anthony’s Exchange Life in Spain! ❤

❤ This is Vitoria-Gasteiz! Let’s start the travel journey! ❤

Vitoria-Gasteiz — A Hidden Gem of Basque Country’s Cultural Heritage

Vitoria-Gasteiz. Picture courtesy of Tourism Euskadi.

Vitoria-Gasteiz, the capital city of Spain’s Basque Country, is a charming and vibrant destination that offers a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With its well-preserved medieval streets, picturesque plazas, and thriving arts scene, Vitoria-Gasteiz invites visitors to explore its hidden treasures and immerse themselves in the warm Basque hospitality.

Sightseeing

Plaza España. Picture courtesy of Tourism Euskadi.

Plaza España

Begin your journey in Vitoria-Gasteiz at Plaza España, a lively square that serves as the heart of the city. Admire the grandeur of the neoclassical buildings that surround the square, enjoy a cup of coffee at one of the outdoor cafés, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. The plaza is also home to the Basque Parliament, adding a touch of political significance to this historic gathering place.

Plaza Virgen Blanca. Picture courtesy of Ayutamiento de Victoria-Gasteiz.

Plaza Virgen Blanca

Discover the essence of Vitoria-Gasteiz at Plaza Virgen Blanca, a historic square that exudes charm and character. This picturesque plaza is adorned with beautiful flowers, a central fountain, and the iconic statue of the White Virgin. It serves as a hub for cultural events, festivals, and local gatherings, offering a glimpse into the city’s lively social scene.

Santa Maria Cathedral. Picture courtesy of Ayutamiento de Victoria-Gasteiz.

Santa Maria Cathedral

Step into the spiritual heart of Vitoria-Gasteiz at Santa Maria Cathedral, a magnificent Gothic-style cathedral that dates back to the 13th century. Marvel at its intricate architectural details, explore the serene interior and admire the stunning stained glass windows that bathe the cathedral in a colorful glow. Climb the tower for breathtaking panoramic views of the city.

Atrium Museum. Picture courtesy to Atrium Museum.

Atrium Museum

Delve into Vitoria-Gasteiz’s rich history and artistic heritage at the Atrium Museum. Housed in a beautifully restored Renaissance palace, the museum showcases a diverse collection of archaeological artifacts, fine arts, and exhibits that highlight the city’s cultural evolution. From ancient artifacts to contemporary artworks, the Atrium Museum offers a captivating journey through time.

Food

GUREA Restaurante

Location: Constitución Plaza, 10, 01012 Gasteiz, Araba, Spain

What a pity! It is now permanently closed. : (

Decent Dinner Set at GUREA Restaurante. The photos were taken by Anthony Wong.

Basque Burnt Cheesecake

Basque Burnt Cheesecake. Picture courtesy of Kirbie’s Craving and me.

The Basque Burnt Cheesecake is a unique twist on the classic cheesecake, known for its caramelized and slightly charred exterior, creamy and velvety interior, and rich, indulgent flavors. It is said to have been created in the 1990s by a chef at La Viña, a famous traditional Basque restaurant in San Sebastián, which is not far from Vitoria-Gasteiz.

This cheesecake stands out for its simplicity, as it is made with just a few ingredients — cream cheese, sugar, eggs, heavy cream, and a touch of flour. Unlike traditional cheesecakes, it doesn’t require a crust or precise baking techniques. Instead, it is baked at a high temperature, allowing the top to darken and develop a delightful burnt caramelized layer while maintaining a soft and creamy center.

The Basque Burnt Cheesecake has gained international recognition and has become a sought-after dessert. In Vitoria-Gasteiz, you can find this delightful treat in local bakeries, pastry shops, and restaurants, where it is often served as a specialty dessert to be savored and enjoyed.

Euskara (Basque language)

Basque Users Distribution and Basque Alphabets. Picture courtesy of Omniglot.

The Basque language, also known as Euskara, is an ancient and unique language spoken in the Basque Country, a region spanning parts of northeastern Spain and southwestern France. With no known linguistic relatives, Basque stands apart from other European languages, making it a fascinating linguistic anomaly. It boasts a rich cultural heritage and has deep historical roots, with evidence of its existence dating back thousands of years. Today, Basque is cherished as an integral part of Basque identity, and efforts are made to preserve and promote its use in various domains, including education, media, and literature. The Basque language serves as a symbol of the region’s distinctiveness and is celebrated as an essential thread in the vibrant tapestry of Basque culture.

Some common expressions in Basque (Euskara): -

Common Expressions of Basque. Picture courtesy of Visit Basque Country.

Hello — Kaixo Bye — Agur How are you? — Zer moduz zaude? Thank you — Eskerrik asko Good morning — Egun on Good afternoon — Arratsalde on Good night — Gabon

Conclusion

Basque Country. Photo courtesy of Open Government Partnership.

Vitoria-Gasteiz offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that captivates visitors from near and far. From the grandeur of Plaza España to the picturesque charm of Plaza Virgen Blanca, the city’s plazas serve as vibrant gathering places that reflect the spirit of the local community. The Santa Maria Cathedral stands as a testament to the city’s religious heritage, while the Atrium Museum offers a window into its artistic and cultural legacy.

As you explore Vitoria-Gasteiz’s medieval streets, enjoy its culinary delights, and engage with its friendly locals, you’ll discover a city that embraces its past while embracing the future. With its warm Basque hospitality, stunning architecture, and a wealth of cultural experiences, Vitoria-Gasteiz invites you to uncover its hidden gems and create cherished memories in this cultural gem of the Basque Country.

❤ Check out below for more! Viva España! ❤

Anthony’s Exchange Life in Spain — Introduction

Anthony’s Exchange Life in Spain — Madrid

Anthony’s Exchange Life in Spain — Zaragoza

Anthony’s Exchange Life in Spain — Pamplona

Anthony’s Exchange Life in Spain — Bilbao

Anthony’s Exchange Life in Spain — San Sebastián

Anthony’s Exchange Life in Spain — Logroño

Anthony’s Exchange Life in Spain — Toledo

Anthony’s Exchange Life in Spain — Segovia

❤ Please stay tuned for further updates from time to time for my travel blogs! Cheers! ❤

Last but not least,

Me at Financial District, Downtown Toronto, Canada ❤

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