Take a tour of the eye-catching Iglesia de San Nicolás, a medieval fortified church that was constructed for defensive purposes as well as religious services. At the time of its founding, there were frequent battles between warring neighborhoods and during one of these the original building was destroyed. The current church was consecrated in 1231.
Begin with a walk around the exterior. Study the ancient door that was once the church’s main entrance. See the ornamental moldings above it. Look up at the medieval watchtower, the only one to survive to the present day. It is also worth taking the time to stroll along the colonnaded walkways that skirt the church’s perimeter. These were built in the late 19th century and feature neo-Gothic arches.
Step inside the church to explore its predominately Gothic interior. View the statues, including 17th-century carvings of Santa Lucía and San Sebastián. Study the ornate altarpieces such as the 17th-century Baroque-style Altarpiece of San Ramón Nonato and the early 18th-century Altarpiece of Santa Ana.
View more religious works of art in the sacristy. There are 18th-century Baroque canvases, paintings and stained-glass windows. Go into the columbarium, a room for the storage of funeral urns, to see an early 16th-century statue of Christ on the cross.
Look at the old baptismal font which is surrounded by a series of mosaics hanging from the walls, including a depiction of the baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist. Visit the choir to see the Baroque organ which was constructed in 1769.
Among the other highlights is the oak floor which dates back to the mid 18th century and has several graves set into it, although they no longer contain any remains.
The Iglesia de San Nicolás is located in Pamplona’s beautiful old town. Arrive by bus or taxi, or drive and park for a fee in garages in the city center. This historic church is open every day and entrance is free.
