Pamplona (Iruña)

One of Spain's most famous cities (thanks to the likes of Ernest Hemingway and the festival of San Fermines) lived up to its hype on a dreary Saturday afternoon.  A mere 2 hours from the Bilbao Termibus, this wonderful Basque city was a glimpse into a more traditional Spain that we rarely see in this part of the Basque Country.  Upon our arrival to Pamplona, we exited the superbly located bus station and into the old town for a much needed coffee, and here's what we saw.

Main plaza in Pamplona. 

Pamplona is home to the original tortilla (Spanish Omelette).

One of Hemingway's many cafe's that he visited.

A store for the street performers and hippies alike. 

The shell welcomes pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostela. 

Large church at the top of the hill.

Beautifully colored buildings throughout the city.

Column fun.

Senior pictures.

Happy to see the trees changing colors in Spain.

If you get lost easily, Pamplona will have you going in circles.

A church.

One of Pamplona's many parks in and around the old town.

A stroll along the wildlife refuge of Pamplona.

What's so important?

Awww. 

Thanksgiving dinner?

Senior pictures take two.

Beautifully colored bird of some sort.  Is it a pheasant?

Artist's rendition of something along the winding streets of Pamplona.

Huh?

Some nice fat chestnuts. Not quite as nice as the rest of the Basque country's chestnutters' digs. 

San Fermin!

Of course a trip to Pamplona wouldn't be complete without a trampling picture.