The Belle Epoque casino building by the Alderdi Eder gardens that now serves as the town hall.
The town hall of San Sebastian occupies the former Gran Casino, a grand Belle Epoque building that opened in 1887 at the edge of the Alderdi Eder gardens between the old town and La Concha. It was one of the symbols of the city's time as the summer capital of the Spanish court and elite, when Queen Maria Cristina spent her summers here. The building was designed in a French-influenced style with a tower and decorated facade. After the national ban on gambling in 1924, it ceased to function as a casino, was used as a hospital during the Civil War and became the town hall in 1947. The gardens in front are a popular place for a rest with views of the bay. Interior visits are not generally available, so most visitors admire the facade and tower from the gardens. The tourism office can advise on guided tours.
| Admission | Free to see from outside |
|---|---|
| Hours | Exterior visible at all times; interior visits only on guided or open-day schedules, check the tourism office |
| Address | Plaza de Sarriegi, 1, 20003 Donostia / San Sebastian, Gipuzkoa, Spain |
Why it matters
Opened as the Gran Casino in 1887 at the height of the royal summer era, it became the town hall in 1947 after the 1924 gambling ban and its use as a hospital in the Civil War.
Location
Plaza de Sarriegi, 1, 20003 Donostia / San Sebastian, Gipuzkoa, Spain
43.3226, -1.9855 View on map
Highlights
- Belle Epoque casino facade of 1887
- Symbol of the royal summer era
- Alderdi Eder gardens in front
- Town hall since 1947
Tips for visiting
- View it from the Alderdi Eder gardens.
- Ask the tourism office about guided visits.
- Pair with a walk to La Concha.
- Visit in the evening when it is lit.
- Keep an eye out for events in the square.
When to visit
Evening for lighting.
Accessibility
Exterior viewing is step-free from the gardens.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
When did the casino open?
1887.
When did it become the town hall?
In 1947, after the 1924 gambling ban and its use as a hospital in the Civil War.
Can visitors go inside?
Not routinely; ask the tourism office about tours.