Ercilla Tower Fishermen's Museum
Discover Bermeo's maritime past in the last standing tower of its ancient defenses, now home to the Fisherman's Museum.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Ercilla Tower Fishermen's Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Bermeo's maritime past in the last standing tower of its ancient defenses, now home to the Fisherman's Museum.
"A must-see for understanding Bermeo's deep connection to the sea and its historical resilience."
Check Opening Hours First
Hours can vary; confirm before your visit to avoid disappointment. :clock1:
Explore Bermeo's Old Port
The tower is situated above the charming old port, perfect for a post-museum wander. :fishing_pole:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ercilla Tower's Architecture
Exterior
Marvel at the unique six-sided floor plan and robust sandstone ashlar of this late 15th-century defensive residence.
Fisherman's Museum Exhibits
Interior
Explore the maritime history of Bermeo through artifacts and displays detailing the town's fishing traditions.
Alonso de Ercilla's Legacy
Museum interior/information
Discover the connection to the renowned writer Alonso de Ercilla, author of 'La Araucana'.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Bermeo's Tower
Understanding the Ercilla Tower's Significance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Opening Hours First
Hours can vary; confirm before your visit to avoid disappointment. :clock1:
Explore Bermeo's Old Port
The tower is situated above the charming old port, perfect for a post-museum wander. :fishing_pole:
Learn About Local History
The museum offers great insights into Bermeo's rich maritime heritage. :ship:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Opening Hours First
Hours can vary; confirm before your visit to avoid disappointment. :clock1:
Explore Bermeo's Old Port
The tower is situated above the charming old port, perfect for a post-museum wander. :fishing_pole:
Learn About Local History
The museum offers great insights into Bermeo's rich maritime heritage. :ship:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Ercilla Tower Fisherman's Museum for its historical significance and its role in preserving Bermeo's maritime heritage. The tower's unique architecture and the informative exhibits are frequently highlighted as positives. Some visitors note that checking opening hours in advance is advisable.
"Great little museum about bermeo."
Tony F. Diego
"The Ercilla Tower is located above the old port of Bermeo. Of the 30 towers that once stood in the town, it is the only one still standing. It belonged to the Ercilla family. It was built in the late 15th century, and although its structure includes some defensive elements, its structure was primarily residential.
The tower has an irregular six-sided floor plan and a hipped roof. Its load-bearing side walls denote the fortified nature of the building. The main façade is made of carefully finished sandstone ashlar, as is another side, although this one is more irregular. The remaining walls are made of masonry.
In 1944, it was declared a monument, and three years later, it was acquired by the Provincial Council of Bizkaia. After restoration, it has housed the Fisherman's Museum since 1948."
EMPRESAS Y RINCONES DE ESPAÑA
"The Ercilla Tower has housed the Bermeo Fishermen's Museum since 1948. The 15th-century building has been listed as a National Monument since 1943, when it was acquired by the Provincial Council of Vizcaya. The photo is from September 2020."
LA NENA VIAJERA
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Ercilla Tower is located above the old port of Bermeo. You can reach Bermeo by car or public transport. Once in Bermeo, it's a short walk to the tower, which is easily visible from the port area.
Parking in Bermeo can be limited, especially near the old port. It's advisable to look for designated parking areas in the town and then walk to the tower.
Yes, Bermeo is a popular day trip destination from Bilbao. The Ercilla Tower Fisherman's Museum is a key attraction within the town.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary. It's best to check the official local tourism website or contact the museum directly for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Typically, tickets can be purchased upon arrival. However, during peak season or for special events, it might be wise to check if advance booking is recommended.
Yes, there is an admission fee for the museum. The exact cost can be found on local tourism sites or by contacting the museum directly.
Yes, the Ercilla Tower has been a national monument since 1944, highlighting its historical and architectural importance.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum showcases Bermeo's rich fishing heritage, with exhibits detailing traditional fishing methods, tools, and the history of the local fishing community.
A visit typically takes about 1-2 hours, allowing time to explore the tower's architecture and the museum exhibits thoroughly.
As a historical tower, accessibility might be limited. It's recommended to inquire directly with the museum about specific accessibility features.
It's the last remaining tower of the thirty that once defended Bermeo, and it was the residence of the Ercilla family, including the writer Alonso de Ercilla.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the tower's unique six-sided structure from various angles in the old port. The surrounding coastal scenery also offers beautiful photographic opportunities.
Photography rules inside museums can vary. It's best to check for signage or ask museum staff if photos are permitted, especially without flash.
For Different Travelers
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👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📚 History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Architecture of Ercilla Tower
Acquired by the Provincial Council of Bizkaia in 1947, the tower underwent restoration before opening its doors as the Bermeo Fisherman's Museum in 1948. This transformation preserved the structure while dedicating it to showcasing the vital maritime heritage of Bermeo. Visitors can appreciate not only the building's historical integrity but also its role in preserving the memory of the town's seafaring past. The tower's unique design and its survival through centuries make it a compelling landmark for history enthusiasts and architecture admirers alike.
Exploring Bermeo's Maritime Heritage at the Fisherman's Museum
Beyond the practical aspects of fishing, the museum also touches upon the cultural significance of the sea in Bermeo. Visitors can learn about the social structures, the community bonds, and the folklore that developed around the fishing industry. The connection to Alonso de Ercilla, the renowned writer who once resided in the tower and penned his epic poem 'La Araucana,' adds another layer of historical depth. Exploring these exhibits provides a comprehensive understanding of Bermeo's past and its enduring relationship with the sea.
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