Welcome to the home of Basque fishermen. We invite you to taste, enjoy and get to know the coastal fish of the Basque Country. Located in San Sebastian’s fishing port, Kofradia – the fishermen’s guild – is a multidisciplinary centre where visitors can learn about inshore fishing in the Bay of Biscay and discover when the different species are in season and how they are caught. You will also be able to try some of the inshore varieties caught by the local fishermen.
Promoted by OPEGUI (the Basque Inshore Fishing Producers’ Organization) and the fishermen’s guilds of the Basque Country, Kofradia – Itsas Etxea was created with the aim of promoting and recognizing the importance of inshore fishing in the Basque Country.
The old fishermen’s guild in San Sebastian’s fishing port has been restored and brought back to life after years of disuse to house the project .
The original fishermen’s guild, which dates back to 1943, was an example of Industrial Modernism in Gipuzkoa. The new building was designed by VAUMM Architects to blend in with the surrounding area, meet today’s needs while respecting the essence and prominent location of its predecessor. The combination of modern and traditional architecture features a façade of textured ceramic tiles in six shades of white which lends movement to the structure.
The new building also features an innovative hydrothermal system based on seawater in compliance with new sustainable energy standards.
For several centuries, the port of San Sebastian has been home to the city’s seafaring activities, which have included, over the years, deep-sea and coastal fishing, whaling, shipbuilding, and maritime trade. These professions and activities have been the mainstay of the city’s economy and way of life for centuries.
Today, the aim of Kofradia – Itsas Etxea is to showcase the unique seafaring history and tradition of our city.
Like its predecessor, Kofradia Itxas Etxea aims to continue to play an important role in the life of San Sebastian’s Old Quarter by shining a light on the world of fishing, revitalizing port life, fishing and maritime activities, raising the profile of the value chain, and promoting the consumption of local seasonal fish.
Kofradia – Itsas Etxea isn’t just another restaurant in the Old Town, not does it aim to be. Kofradia – Itxa Etxea is part of the Old Town, and always has been.