Discover Usurbil: Culture, the Oria and the Txalaparta

The Ruta de la Memoria in Usurbil comprises eight marked sites. Each of these sites has corresponding QR codes, and the route can be explored independently. The eight marked sites are each equipped with corresponding QR codes. The open-air museum and the memorial route thus distribute their content across several locations in the town: the Museo Abierto begins at Plaza Dema, while the Ruta de la Memoria connects eight marked sites. At the Museo Abierto, the starting point at Plaza Dema and the eight additional art stations form a separate focus alongside the memorial route. It comprises eight additional stations with works of art. The Museo Abierto also offers guided tours through the streets of Usurbil. Groups can take part in these tours after contacting the organisers in advance.

Culture

The historic centre of Usurbil is arranged around the Church of San Salvador. The Atxega Palace is an 18th-century Baroque palace. It is designated as a historical-artistic monument. The Salbatore Parish Church houses a Cavaillé-Coll/Mutin organ. It dates from 1907/1920.

Behind the frontón is Zumeta's abstract ceramic mural. The mural measures 16 × 9 metres and is one of the largest ceramic murals of its kind in Europe. The church, palace, organ and mural bring together different forms of cultural heritage: sacred architecture, a Baroque building, historic music and large-scale modern art. Usurbil is associated with the txalaparta, an ancient Basque percussion instrument. The Artze brothers played a particularly important role in the revival of this instrument. Their careers and work give Usurbil a special place in the history of the txalaparta.

The hermitage of San Esteban offers excellent views of the surrounding area. Its access road continues to the summit of Andatza. There are beautiful open spaces there.

Nature

The Oria River is part of the Natura 2000 network in the area around Usurbil. The Ría del Oria near Usurbil offers opportunities for hiking routes. Cycling routes and recreational activities on the water are also possible there. From Usurbil, it is possible to follow the Ría del Oria to the sea.

Traditions

In mid-May, Usurbil hosts the Sagardo Eguna. It is an annual popular festival centred around cider. Every year, the festival welcomes many visitors. Aginaga is known for its fishing tradition. Its eels are particularly prized. The Sagardo Eguna and Aginaga thus bring together cider culture and the region's fishing tradition.

Anyone choosing Usurbil for a stay can include a holiday apartment as a possible form of accommodation in their personal travel planning.

Other places

You can find other places in the same wider area here: Bergara, Gaztelu, Altzola, Zumaia, Zaldivia, Arechavaleta, Elduain, Éibar.

To the wider travel overview: Gipuzkoa.