Logroño (Rioja's capital)

Varea was another of these early settlements. Now integrated into Logroño as a neighbourhood, it was an inland harbour that marked the limit for sailing up the river Ebro, which was heavily used during Roman times. The town grew in importance because of the vast difference in safety, speed, economy and convenience of river transport, to and from the Mediterranean, compared to land transport.

In the sixth century, the city was established in what is now Logroño. Later on, in the eleventh century, the capital of the Rioja consolidated its importance through two major events: the fuero law or charter of Alfonso VI and the development of the Camino de Santiago (Way of St. James).

Church Santa María de PalacioAs a buffer between the kingdoms of Navarre and Castile, Logroño was often the scene of battles between Castilians and Navarrese, which is the reason for its fortress-like appearance. The bridge and towers that defended the city are now the symbols that represent Logroño on its coat of arms.

Over subsequent centuries, the city would develop its trade – wine production and river fishing – under the strong influence of the church and militia, which played an important role in urban life. During this period, the Plaza del Mercado (“Market Square”), also known as Plaza de Herventía, became popular as a meeting point for merchants and market stallholders. This is why the square is one of the most obvious sites for hosting culture and leisure events today.

By the nineteenth century, Logroño began to expand beyond its walls, a move that went hand in hand with the loss of many of its convents. The new iron bridge, the arrival of the railway, the installation of the tobacco factory in the convent of La Merced, the founding of Instituto Sagasta and the progress made in making and selling wine would catapult the city into a modern phase from which there would be no turning back.

From this time on, the city began to extend to the south, covering a space limited by the river. And so the city of Logroño as we know it began to take shape, with its modern layout and abundance of green areas. A city in which life is simply charming.

Wine and gastronomy

A visit to Laurel street in Logroño is a must! There is a bar in every doorway and a speciality in every bar. The smell of mushrooms, meat kebabs, cuttlefish, ham, octopus are enough to make your mouth water.

See some of our wine tours combining Logroño and La Rioja at Wine tour Rioja – 5 days or our Full day wine tour from Bilbao