Gernika Assembly House and Tree
A powerful symbol of Basque freedom and self-governance, the Gernika Tree and its historic Assembly House offer a profound connection to regional iden...

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful reflection
Gernika Assembly House and Tree
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful reflection

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A powerful symbol of Basque freedom and self-governance, the Gernika Tree and its historic Assembly House offer a profound connection to regional identity and resilience.
"A very historical place, a must visit, steeped in profound historical and cultural significance."
🎟️ Book Assembly House Tickets
Secure your Assembly House tickets online in advance to guarantee entry and avoid disappointment.
🌳 Appreciate the Tree's Symbolism
Understand the deep historical and cultural significance of the Gernika Tree as a symbol of Basque freedom.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Gernika Tree
Plaza de los Fueros
An ancient oak symbolizing Basque freedom, where leaders swear oaths. The current tree is a successor to the historic original.

Assembly House (Casa de Juntas)
Adjacent to the Gernika Tree
The historic meeting place of Basque assemblies, steeped in political and cultural significance. Features impressive architecture.
Trunk of the Historic Tree
Small shrine near the current tree
Preserved trunk of the original 1742 tree, a tangible link to centuries of Basque history and resilience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Assembly House
Understand the Symbolism
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Guernica/Gernika Assembly Hall, Basque Country, Spain with virtual tour
🎟️ Book Assembly House Tickets
Secure your Assembly House tickets online in advance to guarantee entry and avoid disappointment.
🌳 Appreciate the Tree's Symbolism
Understand the deep historical and cultural significance of the Gernika Tree as a symbol of Basque freedom.
Gernikako Batzarretxea / Guernica/Gernika Assembly Hall
The Tree of Gernika in 1891 and 2003 (Sources and context in comments)
🚶♂️ Explore the Surroundings
Take time to wander the plaza and nearby streets to soak in the atmosphere of this historically rich town.
🗣️ Consider a Guided Tour
A guided tour can offer deeper insights into the history and symbolism of both the tree and the Assembly House.
Going to Bilbao in March. Need some suggestions.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Assembly House Tickets
Secure your Assembly House tickets online in advance to guarantee entry and avoid disappointment.
🌳 Appreciate the Tree's Symbolism
Understand the deep historical and cultural significance of the Gernika Tree as a symbol of Basque freedom.
🚶♂️ Explore the Surroundings
Take time to wander the plaza and nearby streets to soak in the atmosphere of this historically rich town.
🗣️ Consider a Guided Tour
A guided tour can offer deeper insights into the history and symbolism of both the tree and the Assembly House.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Gernika Assembly House and Tree to be deeply historical and culturally significant, representing Basque freedom and self-governance. While the tree is a powerful symbol, many recommend booking tickets for the Assembly House in advance to ensure access and a comprehensive understanding of its importance. The site offers a profound connection to regional identity and resilience.
"I travelled 2 days to see this ceiling but then I was denied because I didn't have a ticket. Instead of watching the ceiling the local foodball match was way more exciting!"
Hendrik Peeters
"A very historical place, a must visit."
S Barnes
"Interesting museum, and basque historically and culturally significant place with the ancient oak"
Stan Epshtein
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Gernika from Bilbao by bus or train. The Bizkaibus line A3513 runs frequently from Bilbao's Termibus station to Gernika. The train service (Euskotren) also connects Bilbao (Zazpikaleak/Casco Viejo station) to Gernika. The journey typically takes around 45-60 minutes.
Yes, there are public parking areas available in Gernika. It's advisable to look for designated parking lots as street parking can be limited, especially during busy periods.
Absolutely! Gernika is an excellent day trip destination from Bilbao. You can easily spend a few hours exploring the Assembly House, the Tree, and the town's historical sites before returning to Bilbao.
The Gernika Assembly House and the Gernika Tree are located right next to each other in the Plaza de los Fueros, making them easily walkable. You won't need any special transport between them.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Gernika Tree itself is located in a public plaza and is freely accessible to everyone. You can admire it and its surroundings without a ticket.
Tickets for the Gernika Assembly House (Casa de Juntas) are often required for entry, especially for guided tours. It's highly recommended to book these in advance online through the official Gernika-Lumo tourism website or the Assembly House's own portal to avoid disappointment.
Opening hours can vary depending on the season and whether you are visiting for a guided tour or independently. Always check the official website for the most up-to-date information on opening times and tour schedules.
Yes, guided tours are often available and highly recommended to fully appreciate the historical and political significance of the Assembly House. These tours provide valuable context and insights.
There is typically an admission fee for the Gernika Assembly House, especially if you are taking a guided tour. Check the official ticketing platform for current pricing.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The Gernika Tree is a powerful symbol of Basque freedom, self-government, and identity. For centuries, it has been the site where the Lords of Biscay swore to uphold Basque laws, and today, the Lehendakari (President of the Basque Government) takes their oath beneath it.
Inside the Assembly House, you'll find the historic plenary hall where Basque assemblies convened. It's adorned with significant artwork and symbols that represent the region's history and governance. The preserved trunk of the original historic tree is also housed nearby.
While the historical and political context might be more appreciated by adults, children can still find the Gernika Tree interesting as a natural landmark. The Assembly House can be engaging if presented with simplified explanations of its importance as a place where important decisions were made.
A visit to the Gernika Tree and Assembly House can take anywhere from 1 to 3 hours, depending on whether you take a guided tour of the Assembly House and how much time you spend exploring the surrounding plaza and town.
Photography policies can vary. Generally, photography is allowed in public areas like the plaza with the tree, but there might be restrictions inside the Assembly House itself, especially during tours. It's best to check on-site signage or ask your guide.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Gernika offers several local restaurants and bars serving traditional Basque cuisine. You can find places offering pintxos (tapas) and full meals in the town center, a short walk from the Assembly House and Tree.
While traditional Basque cuisine can be meat and seafood-heavy, many restaurants are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan options. It's always a good idea to ask about specific dishes or inform your server of your dietary needs.
Yes, Gernika is a great place to try local Basque specialties. Look for dishes featuring fresh seafood, local produce, and traditional preparations. The town also has a vibrant market.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the Assembly House might be more abstract, framing it as a 'meeting room for important people' or a 'place where decisions were made for the region' can help younger visitors grasp its significance. Consider focusing on the visual aspects, like any artwork or the architecture, to keep them engaged. Visiting the nearby market can also be a fun sensory experience for kids.
🏛️ History Buffs
Don't miss the preserved trunk of the original tree and learn about its near-destruction during the Spanish Civil War. Understanding the context of the bombing of Gernika and Picasso's famous painting adds another layer to the historical significance of the site.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Engage with local guides if available for deeper insights, or simply wander through the town, perhaps visiting the local market. The manageable size of Gernika makes it easy to explore independently and connect with its profound history.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enduring Symbolism of the Gernika Tree
During the Spanish Civil War, the tree faced a direct threat. When Franco's troops captured Gernika in 1937 following the devastating bombing, they intended to cut down the tree, viewing it as a symbol of Basque nationalism. However, a group of Carlists intervened, preventing its destruction. This act of defiance further cemented the tree's status as a resilient emblem of Basque resistance and independence.
Visiting the Gernika Tree offers a profound connection to Basque history and culture. It's a place where you can feel the weight of centuries of struggle and the enduring spirit of a people deeply connected to their land and traditions. The simple act of standing beneath its branches can be a moving experience, evoking a sense of shared heritage and pride.
The Assembly House: A Seat of Basque Governance
Inside, visitors can explore the plenary hall, the very space where representatives gathered to debate and legislate. The atmosphere within the Assembly House is one of solemnity and historical significance, offering a glimpse into the long-standing tradition of self-governance in the Basque Country. Guided tours are highly recommended here, as they provide invaluable context about the political and cultural evolution of the region.
While the Assembly House is a place of historical reflection, it also serves as a reminder of the ongoing importance of democratic institutions. Its continued use, even in modern times, underscores the deep-rooted commitment to self-determination that the Gernika Tree and Assembly House collectively represent.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit