Sesma: Esparto Craftsmanship, Festivals and Holiday Apartments

The landscape of Sesma, consisting predominantly of gypsum and clay, has been shaped by erosion into separate ridges and valleys; the Peña Ezquerra stands out among them.

Culture and History

In Sesma, the parish church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción dates back to an early Gothic original building erected at the beginning of the 13th century. The main altarpiece of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción was commissioned in 1625. The hermitage of Nuestra Señora de Almuza is an early Gothic building dating from around 1200 and is now in a state of ruin.

An archaeological site containing materials dating back as far as the Bronze Age was found on the hill where the Almuza hermitage stands. The Casa-Museo opposite the church of Sesma is dedicated to Father Tomás Esteban, a Jesuit missionary and martyr.

Sesma was known as the only place in the Merindad de Estella with Esparto craftsmanship. The traditional Esparto craftsmanship of Sesma included gathering albardín grass, shredding and twisting the fibres into ropes, and making mats, carrying baskets, saddlebags, sacks and agricultural ropes.

Sacred architecture, archaeology, the museum and craftsmanship can be considered as distinct cultural topics.

Landscape and Trails

Several streams run through Sesma, forming ravines that remain dry for most of the year but can carry raging waters during storms.

The Monte Ayuso circular route begins in Sesma and leads over the heights of Monte Ayuso. It is 14.30 km long and has an elevation difference of 110 m. The route offers views of the extensive, steppe-like plains of the Ribera of Navarre.

When planning a trip, the distance, elevation difference and views can be considered separately from the fixed event dates.

When comparing a holiday apartment in Sesma, you can review travel dates, room category and cancellation conditions as separate offer details. Read the information for your preferred period and compare it with the purpose of your trip, such as a festival date, the Monte Ayuso circular route or the historic sites.

Festivals and Community

The patron-saint festivals of Sesma last seven days and begin at the end of August. They include the Pochada de Sesma, a communal meal in Calle de la Iglesia.

Sesma Carnival includes a costume gathering for children, a chocolate celebration for all children and the burning of Judas. For over 20 years, Sesma Carnival was celebrated one weekend earlier than the other carnivals. The Feria de Artesparto takes place in Sesma on the last Sunday in April or the first Sunday in May.

The dates vary according to duration, season and occasion; you can compare these three factors separately when planning your trip.

More destinations

Roncesvalles, Doneztebe, Metauten, Garde, San Martín De Unx, Genevilla, Saragüeta, Miranda De Arga

To the higher-level travel overview: Navarre.