Aprikano on the Bayas: Bridge, Church and History

Aprikano lies at the southeastern end of the Kuartango Valley, on the left bank of the Bayas River and at the foot of the Sierra de Badaia. Here, the Baias leaves the valley through the Portillo de Tetxa in the direction of La Ribera. Those entering the valley through the Paso de Techa reach Aprikano as the first village in the Kuartango Valley. At the end of the road towards Orduña stands the well-preserved bridge of Aprikano.

Location and Landscape

Along the course of the river, the habitat of the endangered moss Orthotrichum casasianum extends for 20 kilometres, from the bridge of Lukiano to the bridge of Aprikano. The endangered moss Orthotrichum casasianum is listed in the Basque Catalogue of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants. In the vicinity of Aprikano lies Gobaederra, a speleological site where tools, human remains and necklaces were found. Riverbanks, mountain foothills and the moss habitat are therefore among the different landscape features associated with Aprikano.

History and Religious Buildings

Aprikano is already mentioned by this name in the 1257 charter of the Bishop of Calahorra. The parish church of Santiago was originally built in the 13th century. It includes a chapel dedicated to Saint John from the second half of the 16th century. The bridge also reflects the village's long building history: it dates from the 14th or 15th century, is likewise attributed to the 15th century, and has five arches, including four pointed arches and one round arch. For churches, chapels and other historic buildings, travellers should check the current opening hours before visiting. Opening hours may be regulated differently on site.

Villagescape and Architectural Heritage

At the entrance to Aprikano, an old sign was located on a typical heraldic farmhouse. It indicated the name of the village to those arriving from the direction of Orduña. Numerous heraldic houses bear the coats of arms of the locally prominent Eguíluz, Andas, Montoyas and Ortiz de Luna families, as well as those of other families. A former post house was already known as El Mesón de Aprícano in the 16th century. A Casa-Torre is also documented for the year 1595. The heraldic houses, post house and Casa-Torre complement the church and bridge with further tangible evidence of the village's history.

Water and Village Heritage

Aprikano has a mill with overflow channels for irrigating the vegetable gardens. The villagescape also includes a restored fountain with a livestock trough. The mill, overflow channels, fountain and livestock trough point to facilities connected with water and everyday village life.

Regional Cuisine

In the Kuartango Valley, you can enjoy a traditional cider-house menu featuring products from the valley.

When travelling on mountain-pass and valley roads, it is advisable to check current road conditions and traffic information before setting out.

Other places in the same higher-level area include Bujanda, Murga, Añana, Ibarguren, Moreta, Abornikano, Hereña and Lezama.

To the higher-level travel overview: Alava.