Explore the Ancient Wonders of Iruña Veleia
Discover the archaeological wonders of Iruña Veleia, where history comes to life in the heart of Álava's stunning landscapes.
A brief summary to Roman Site of Iruña Veleia
- Víllodas, Álava, 01195, ES
- +34618539353
- Visit website
- Tuesday 11 am-2 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-2 pm
- Thursday 11 am-2 pm
- Friday 11 am-2 pm
- Saturday 11 am-2 pm
- Sunday 11 am-2 pm
Nestled in the picturesque region of Álava, the Roman Site of Iruña Veleia stands as a testament to the grandeur of Roman civilization in the Iberian Peninsula. This archaeological site offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the past, showcasing the remains of an ancient city that flourished during the Roman Empire. As you wander through the ruins, you'll encounter impressive structures, including residential buildings, public spaces, and a wealth of artifacts that reveal the daily life of its inhabitants. The site is renowned for its well-preserved mosaics and inscriptions, which provide invaluable insights into the cultural and social dynamics of the time. Visitors to Iruña Veleia can take advantage of guided tours that enrich the experience with expert interpretations of the site's historical significance. The knowledgeable guides share fascinating anecdotes and contextual information, helping to bring the ruins to life. The serene setting also invites exploration at your own pace, allowing you to immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere that surrounds these ancient stones. Moreover, the site is complemented by a visitor center that houses displays of artifacts unearthed during excavations. This center serves as an educational resource, offering deeper understanding of the archaeological methods used to uncover the site's treasures. With its breathtaking landscapes and profound historical significance, Iruña Veleia is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and travelers seeking to connect with the rich tapestry of the region's past.
Local tips
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the terrain may be uneven.
- Check the opening hours, as they may vary by season.
- Consider joining a guided tour for a more insightful experience.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning mosaics and ruins.
- Plan to spend a few hours to fully explore the site and visitor center.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, you can reach the Roman Site of Iruña Veleia from Bilbao. Start by getting onto the A-8 highway towards San Sebastián. After approximately 40 km, take the exit for the A-68 towards Logroño. Continue on the A-68 for about 45 km, then take the exit for the N-1 towards Vitoria-Gasteiz. Follow the N-1 for about 20 km before taking the exit towards the A-624. Continue on the A-624 for about 15 km until you see signs for Iruña Veleia. The site is located at 01195 Víllodas, Álava. Parking is available nearby.
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Public Transportation
If you prefer public transportation, you can take a bus from Vitoria-Gasteiz. Start at the Vitoria-Gasteiz bus station and catch a bus heading to Villodas. The journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes. Once you arrive in Villodas, you will need to walk about 1.5 km to the Roman Site of Iruña Veleia. Make sure to check the bus schedule for return trips, as services may be limited.
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Taxi
For a more direct route, consider taking a taxi from Vitoria-Gasteiz. The taxi ride will take around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Be aware that taxi fares may vary, so it's advisable to confirm the estimated price with the driver before starting your journey.
Attractions Nearby to Roman Site of Iruña Veleia
- Botanical Garden of Santa Catalina
- Museo de Bellas Artes de Álava
- Palacio Zulueta
- Cathedral María Inmaculada of Vitoria
- Palacio de "La Provincia"
- Museo de los faroles
- Gasteizko Batailaren monumentua
- Plaza Virgen Blanca
- Vitoria-Gasteiz city walls
- Plaza España
- Vitoria City Hall
- Santa Maria Cathedral
- Museo de Arqueología de Álava Bibat
- Artium Museum
- Olarizu
Landmarks nearby to Roman Site of Iruña Veleia
- Ketura
- Menhir Mugarriluze
- Sanctuary of Arantzazu
- Bilboko Eleiz Arteen Museoa
- La Abadía de Atxuri escaperoom
- Balcón de Bizkaia
- San Anton eliza
- Epikana - Escape Room Exterior Bilbao
- Erriberako merkatua
- Bilboko Harresia
- Museo de Reproducciones Artísticas
- Begoñako Basilika
- Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala
- Ágape jatetxea
- Joan Santuen eliza