Burgos, Spain Facts for Kids

Flag of Burgos

Coat of arms of Burgos

Burgos is a cool Spanish city located in the region of Castile and León. It's the main city, or capital, of the province of Burgos. This city is famous for its amazing history and beautiful old buildings.

Burgos

A Look at Burgos
- Why is Burgos Important?
History of Burgos
- Early Days of Burgos
- The Age of Heroes
Famous Places to See
- The Burgos Cathedral
  - What Makes the Cathedral Special?
- Other Historic Sites
Culture and Modern Life
Images for kids
See also

A Look at Burgos

Burgos is in the northern part of Spain. It's a city with a long and interesting past. The city sits on the Arlanzón River. It has a mix of old traditions and modern life.

Why is Burgos Important?

Burgos was once a very important city in Spain. It was the capital of the Kingdom of Castile for a long time. This means it was a powerful center for kings and queens. Today, it's a hub for history, art, and learning.

History of Burgos

Burgos has roots going back many centuries. It was founded in the year 884. This was during a time when Christian kingdoms were expanding in Spain.

Early Days of Burgos

The city quickly grew because of its location. It was a key stop on the Way of St. James. This was a famous pilgrimage route. Many travelers passed through Burgos. This helped the city become rich and important.

The Age of Heroes

Burgos is also known for a famous Spanish hero. His name was El Cid. He was a brave knight from the 11th century. There is a large statue of him in the city. He is a symbol of courage and strength.

Famous Places to See

Burgos has many incredible landmarks. They show off its rich history and amazing architecture.

The Burgos Cathedral

The Cathedral of Saint Mary of Burgos is the most famous building. It's a huge Gothic cathedral. It started being built in 1221. It took hundreds of years to finish. It is so special that it's a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This means it's recognized as important to everyone in the world.

What Makes the Cathedral Special?

It has amazing towers and detailed carvings.
Inside, you can see beautiful stained glass.
There are also impressive altars and tombs.
It's a masterpiece of Gothic art.

Other Historic Sites

Abbey of Santa María la Real de Las Huelgas: This is an old royal monastery. It was founded in 1180. Many kings and queens are buried here.
Castle of Burgos: You can see the ruins of an old castle. It sits on a hill above the city. It offers great views of Burgos.
Arco de Santa María: This is a grand old gate. It was once part of the city walls. It looks like a triumphal arch.

Culture and Modern Life

Burgos is not just about old buildings. It's a lively city today.

Museums and Learning

Museum of Human Evolution: This modern museum is very popular. It shows the story of human evolution. It has fossils found nearby.
Book Museum: This unique museum celebrates books. It shows how books have changed over time.
University of Burgos: The city has a university. It brings many young people to Burgos.

Parks and Recreation

Burgos has many green spaces.

Paseo del Espolón: This is a beautiful tree-lined promenade. It's a great place for a walk.
Parque El Parral and La Isla: These are lovely parks. They are perfect for relaxing or playing.
River Arlanzón: The river flows through the city. Its banks are popular for walks and bike rides.

Getting Around Burgos

The city has good transport.

Train Station: Burgos Rosa de Lima train station connects the city to other parts of Spain.
Bike Network: Burgos has a city bike system called Bicibur. It makes it easy to cycle around.

Images for kids

Ruins of the Castle of Burgos, of a possible Visigothic origin
Abbey of Santa María la Real de Las Huelgas, founded in 1180
Burgos, as depicted in the Georg Braun & Frans Hogenberg's Civitates Orbis Terrarum (c. 1572)
The statue of El Cid
The Cathedral of Saint Mary of Burgos
Detail of the façade of the 15th-century Palace of the Constables of Castile
Frontal view of the Museum of Human Evolution
Book Museum
University of Burgos
View of a 1950s-era building in the El Crucero district
1960s-era urbanisation in the working-class district of Gamonal
Modern urbanisation developments
Parque El Parral
La Isla
Summer on the "Paseo del Espolón"
Wheat fields in the outskirts of Burgos
Burgos Rosa de Lima train station
Bicibur
Burgos' city bike network
Basketball
Entrance to Burgos by David Roberts, c. 1838
Burgos by Adolphe Rouarge and Émile Rouargue, c. 1850
Historic street leading from the cathedral
Palace of the Captains General
River Arlanzón in spring
River Arlanzón in winter