Free walking tours in El Burgo de Osma and what to see

Must-sees

El Burgo de Osma is a bishop's seat with plenty of character. Its cathedral, Gothic with later additions, is the main visit, and its museum holds the Beatus of Osma, a highly valuable medieval manuscript. Very close are the Plaza Mayor, with the Hospital de San Agustín, and the former Universidad de Santa Catalina.

The arcaded Calle Mayor is the main street for strolling and a drink. It is worth following the remains of the wall and heading down to the river Ucero. Across the river, up high, are the ruins of Osma castle, and a little further the Celtiberian and Roman site of Uxama, with views over the whole valley.

Free tours and guided visits

There are no regular free walking tours in El Burgo de Osma. The usual options are guided visits to the cathedral and its museum, and guided routes around the historic centre run in season. To understand the cathedral, its cloister and the value of the Beatus, a guide is worth it, because many details are easily missed.

The classic trip is the Cañón del Río Lobos Natural Park, with the San Bartolomé chapel and riverside walking routes. You can also visit Ucero castle, the caliphal fortress of Gormaz or the medieval village of Calatañazor. If you travel in winter, the town is known for its pig-slaughter season cooking.

How long to spend

One day is enough for the town. In the morning, the cathedral and museum. In the afternoon, the Plaza Mayor, Calle Mayor and a walk to Uxama or the castle. With two or three days you can spend one on the Cañón del Río Lobos and another on Gormaz, Calatañazor or San Esteban de Gormaz.

Where to stay

The most comfortable choice is to sleep in the centre, between the Plaza Mayor and the cathedral, where everything is on foot, including restaurants and tapas bars. If you are going to tour the area, a rural house in one of the villages near the Cañón del Río Lobos is also a good idea, as you will be a few minutes from the trails.