The almond-shaped medieval town is set upon a hill that is the only elevation in the plain of Álava.

The fortified wall that surrounds the town was built during the second half of the 11th century (new findings suggest that parts of it may be even older).

The strategic position on the hill helped old Vitoria to become a defensive stronghold coveted by the Kingdoms of Navarra and Castile during the 11th and 12th centuries.