Introduction
The San Sebastián City Council is one of the most emblematic buildings in the city, not only for its relevance as the seat of the municipal government, but also for its imposing architecture and its history linked to the evolution of Donostia. Located in a privileged environment next to the Jardines de Alderdi Eder and the iconic La Concha Bay, this building is a point of interest for both residents and visitors. In this article we will explore its history, architecture, current functions and curiosities, highlighting little-known details and its impact on the city over time.
History of the Town Hall
Origin of the building and its initial function
The current San Sebastián City Council did not always have this function. Opened in 1887, it was originally conceived as the city’s Grand Casino. During the Belle Époque, San Sebastián was one of the most exclusive tourist destinations in Europe, and the casino became an entertainment center for aristocracy and royalty, attracting figures such as Queen María Cristina of Habsburg and the writer Pío Baroja. Its halls hosted some of the most lavish events of the time, and the casino earned the reputation of being one of the most luxurious in Europe.
However, the rise of activity also brought controversies. The morality of the game and its impact on society were the subject of debates in the city. There were attempts to regulate its operation, but the growing opposition to casinos in Spain ended up putting an end to its splendor.
Transformation into town hall
With the prohibition of gambling in 1924, the Grand Casino closed its doors and the building fell into disuse until 1947, when it was converted into the headquarters of the City Council. Since then, it has been the epicenter of municipal management and has hosted important political decisions that have marked the development of the city. Its adaptation as a town hall was not without challenges, since the spaces had to be redesigned to adjust them to administrative needs. During the first decades of its function as the headquarters of the City Council, important renovations were carried out to modernize its facilities and improve its accessibility.
Today, the building continues to be a symbol of San Sebastian identity and a reflection of the city’s splendid past. Over the years, it has hosted numerous celebrations, official events and historical moments that have consolidated its role as one of the most important points of San Sebastián.
Architecture and building features
Designed by architects Adolfo Morales de los Ríos and Luis Aladrén Mendivi, the City Hall building is a clear example of the eclecticist architecture of the late 19th century. Its façade is imposing, with classic and modernist decorative elements that reflect the opulence of its past as a casino. In addition to its architectural relevance, the building has witnessed some of the city’s most important historical moments.
Among its most notable elements are:
- The main façade: With elegant balconies, ornamental details and side towers that give it a regal air. In its decoration you can see influences of modernism and neoclassical style, with slender columns and floral motifs carved in stone.
- The Plenary Hall: Where municipal sessions are held, with classic decoration and historic furniture. This space features a detailed coffered ceiling and large windows that allow in natural light, highlighting the majesty of the surroundings.
- The lobby and main staircase: One of the most impressive areas of the interior, with a large glass dome that allows natural light to enter. The staircase is a central element of the building, with wrought iron railings and marble steps that lead to the different rooms and offices of the town hall.
- The towers of the Town Hall: Located on both sides of the building, these towers have witnessed countless political changes and historical events. From its structure you can see some bullet holes from the Civil War, which have remained as a reminder of the events experienced in the city.
- Stained glass and artistic details: Inside the building, a series of stained glass windows and frescoes stand out that represent scenes from the history of San Sebastián. These works of art were added at different stages, providing greater heritage value to the construction.
The building has been restored on several occasions, always preserving its historical essence and adapting to the needs of modern administration. Over the years, structural and accessibility improvements have been made, ensuring that the building continues to be an architectural and functional landmark for the city.
Functions and services of the City Council
The San Sebastián City Council is the headquarters of the local administration, in charge of managing public services, urban planning, culture, tourism and social welfare. Through its different areas and departments, it is responsible for guaranteeing the efficient functioning of the city and improving the quality of life of its inhabitants.
Some of its main functions are:
- Municipal government: It is the headquarters of the mayor and the municipal plenary session, where key decisions are made for the management and development of the city. Additionally, public meetings are held to discuss local policies and projects.
- Citizen attention: Procedures such as registration, licenses, tax management and other administrative services for residents and companies. It also has digital platforms to facilitate carrying out procedures without having to go in person.
- Culture and events: Supports cultural activities, exhibitions, concerts and festivities such as the Tamborrada or the San Sebastián International Film Festival. In addition, it promotes initiatives to preserve and disseminate the city’s historical and artistic heritage.
- Infrastructure and urban planning: Planning and development of public works, maintenance of streets and green spaces, traffic regulation and urban transportation management.
- Environment and sustainability: Implementation of policies for environmental protection, waste management, promotion of renewable energies and environmental education programs for citizens.
- Social welfare and health: Management of social services, support for people in vulnerable situations, promotion of inclusion and development of public health programs to guarantee the well-being of the community.
In addition, the building is open for institutional visits and tourist tours on designated dates, allowing residents and tourists to learn about its history and internal functioning.
Curiosities and anecdotes
- During the Spanish Civil War, the Town Hall witnessed several critical episodes and was occupied by different sides. Documents and photographs from the period have been preserved that show the impact of the conflict on the building and its surroundings.
- During its time as a casino, it is said that figures such as Mata Hari or Leon Trotsky may have visited its luxurious lounges. It is rumored that some of the most intriguing political meetings and conspiracies of the time may have occurred in his private rooms.
- The towers of the building have bullet holes from the Civil War era, which have been maintained as historical testimony. These visible damages on the façade are a reminder of the turbulent past that the city has gone through.
- In the basement of the Town Hall there are old passageways and rooms that, according to some theories, could have been used for secret meetings or as refuges in times of conflict.
- Every year, on special dates, an exhibition is opened to the public with historical documents, municipal records and ancient objects that allow us to better understand the evolution of local government and the transformation of the city.
This emblematic building is not only the political and administrative epicenter of San Sebastián, but also a living testimony of its history and culture.
How to visit the San Sebastián City Hall
The Town Hall is not a free-access building, but on special occasions guided tours are organized that allow you to learn about its history and its most representative spaces. These visits offer attendees the opportunity to discover architectural details, learn historical anecdotes and understand the importance of the building in the municipal life of San Sebastián.
Information about guided tours
Currently, San Sebastián City Council does not offer regular guided tours to the public. However, on special occasions or specific events, tours are organized that allow you to learn about the history and the most representative spaces of the building.
To obtain updated information on possible visits or related activities, it is recommended:
- Consult the official website of the San Sebastián City Council: News and events related to the municipality are published here.
- Contact the San Sebastián Tourist Office: Located at Alameda del Boulevard, 8, they offer information about tourist and cultural activities in the city. You can visit its official website or contact us via email sansebastianturismoa@donostia.eus.
- Local tourism companies: Various companies offer guided tours of the city that include information about the Town Hall and other points of interest. These visits are usually conducted in different languages and can be adapted to the needs of visitors.
Practical information
- Location: Alderdi Eder Gardens, next to La Concha Beach. Its privileged location allows the visit to be complemented with a tour of the most emblematic points of the city.
- Schedules: They depend on special events and dates. It is recommended to consult in advance on the official website of the City Council or at the tourist office to obtain updated information.
- Types of visits:
- Cultural guided tours, where experts in history and architecture explain the most relevant details of the building.
- Educational tours aimed at schools and training centers, where the role of the City Council in the management of the city is addressed.
- Special events in which access is allowed to rooms that are not normally open to the public.
- Recommendations:
- Combine the visit with a tour of the Old Town and the Plaza de la Constitución, to obtain a more complete vision of the history of San Sebastián.
- Take advantage of the proximity of other points of interest, such as the port and the Old Town, where you can taste the famous San Sebastian pintxos.
- Bring a camera, as the building and its surroundings offer spectacular views, especially on sunny days.
Conclusion
The San Sebastián City Council is much more than the seat of local government; It is a building full of history, art and culture. From its days as a luxurious casino to its current role in the city’s political life, it remains an emblem of Donostia. Its imposing façade and its privileged location, overlooking La Concha Bay, make it one of the most photographed and admired places by locals and tourists.
In addition to its architectural relevance, this building has witnessed numerous historical events, some of them unknown to the general public. From decisive political meetings to receptions of international personalities, the City hall has played a crucial role in the evolution of San Sebastián. With its eclectic style structure and ornamental details that evoke the Belle Époque, it remains a symbol of the city’s elegance and history.
Whether because of its architecture, its past or its relevance today, knowing this building is essential to understanding the identity of San Sebastián. Those who have the opportunity to visit, especially on the rare occasions when guided tours are organized, can marvel at its interior and the richness of its decorative details. In addition, guided tours allow you to immerse yourself in its historical wealth and discover a special corner of the city that often goes unnoticed by many tourists. For lovers of history and architecture, exploring this building is an essential experience in Donostia.
