The tower of the Mendozas is a clear example of a fortified tower-dwelling. It was the residence of the Mendozas, one of the most illustrious lineages in Spain, for more than a century. Iñigo López de Mendoza ordered for it to be built at the beginning of the 13th century.
The tower, with civil Gothic elements spread over five floors, protrudes from the architectural framework, whilst a wall surrounds the building and has four circular towers at the highest points.
From the top floor of the tower, visitors can take in the magnificent views of the plain, Badaia mountain range and the hills of Vitoria.
After being the residence of the Mendozas, the tower was used as a prison. It was restored in 1963, returning it to the splendour it showed in previous times, and is currently the Heraldic Museum of Alava.