The park was designed to preserve the physical structure of the former military fortifications while adapting them for public recreation.
The Portal de San Nicolás, located within the park, was originally built in 1666 and relocated here in 1928 to preserve the structure.
The moat area is historically significant as it functioned as part of the outer defense perimeter that once shielded Pamplona from siege.
A marble sculpture of the renowned tenor Julián Gayarre is one of the most prominent monuments in the gardens.
The park maintains a small ecosystem in its ditch area where animals roam freely in a space originally meant for artillery defensive maneuvers.
Jardines de la Taconera is the oldest park in Pamplona, established in 1830 in the English romantic style. The park is uniquely bordered by the remnants of the 16th-century Renaissance fortifications, specifically the Taconera bastion and the San Roque and Gonzaga ravelins. A sunken mini-zoo exists within the dry moat area, where deer, ducks, and peacocks live in a semi-wild environment. The park spans approximately 90,000 square meters, featuring varied vegetation, fountains, and commemorative statues. It serves as a green buffer between the modern city and the historic Casco Antiguo. Architectural elements include the Portal de San Nicolás, an ornate 17th-century gate relocated from its original city position. The layout integrates formal garden beds with winding paths that follow the contours of the old city walls.
From the stone bridge overlooking the dry moat, capturing the intersection of the ancient walls and the garden canopy.
Walk along the top of the ramparts for elevated views of the garden and the surrounding mountains.
Bring a camera to capture the animals in the moat, as they often come close to the railings.
Visit the 'Café Vienés' situated within the park for a coffee break in a historic setting.
Do not mistake the modern street-side entrance for the main historical walk; enter from the Paseo de Sarasate side to experience the full path.
Respect the animal enclosures by not feeding the wildlife; stay on marked paths to protect the historical greenery.
