The castle grounds house the English Cemetery, where soldiers who fought alongside the Spanish against French forces in 1813 are buried.
The statue of the Sacred Heart of Jesus was added to the castle summit in 1950.
The House of History museum is housed within the remains of the castle's old guardhouse.
The castle was designated as an Item of Cultural Interest (Bien de Interés Cultural) in 1921.
It was effectively the last defensive position for the city during the Peninsular War before the total destruction of San Sebastián in 1813.
Motako Gaztelua, or Mota Castle, sits atop Mount Urgull in San Sebastián, serving as a defensive fortification that dates back to the 12th century. The site encompasses the House of History museum, which chronicles the development of the city from its medieval origins. The grounds feature preserved ramparts, ancient cannons, and a 12-meter-tall statue of the Sacred Heart of Jesus overlooking the bay. It served as a strategic military outpost during the Napoleonic Wars and the Carlist conflicts. Visitors can access various observation decks that provide panoramic views of La Concha Bay and the Cantabrian Sea. The site includes a military cemetery established for British soldiers who died during the 1813 Siege of San Sebastián. It is integrated into the larger parkland of Mount Urgull, accessible via multiple winding hillside trails.
The base of the Sacred Heart statue for a wide-angle view of the entire city and bay.
Wear sturdy walking shoes as the climb to the castle involves steep, paved, and gravel inclines.
Bring water, as the trek up the hill can be physically demanding.
Visit the small lighthouse located on the northern slope of the hill nearby.
Do not attempt the climb in flip-flops or open-toed sandals due to the uneven and steep terrain.
The museum section may close on certain Mondays; the exterior castle grounds remain accessible as part of the public park.
Respect the site as a war memorial, particularly within the military cemetery area.
