The Value of the Intangible

All you have to do is stroll through the town to realize this: the port reveals the important role played by shipbuilding here, the monuments and buildings in the historic center tell its stories, and, if you visit its two beaches you'll be dazzled by its nature and the natural setting, in general. These are just some of the reasons why we’re part of the Geopark!

This whole legacy is something you’ll never forget. In addition to the countless landscapes and images that will be seared into your memory, you'll be able to take many photographs that you can view again and again at home, as it cannot be denied that we live in a very photogenic town.

But there’s another type of heritage that, though it can’t be seen or touched, may be one of the most important. It’s a legacy that defines our history, identity and character: our customs and our language—though Basque is more than just a language; it’s an identity, a culture, a refuge.

Although Basque is one of the oldest languages in the world, little is known about it, as it remains shrouded in mystery. Its origins are unidentified, but in Zumaia you can explore this intangible heritage on a guided tour: The Enigma of Basque Language (in Spanish). We are the Basque Country, and we explain it to you on this 90-minute tour.

During this guided tour you'll stroll through Zumaia's Old Town, discovering its quaint corners, learning about the curious musical instruments we once used to communicate, and about certain customs and traditions that have survived down until today, such as stone lifting (harrijasotzaileak), rowing, pelota vasca, and log cutting (aizkolariak), among others.

You’ll also visit the Cofradía (“seafarers’ guild hall”), featuring a machine once used at fish auctions; in fact, it’s the only one left in the Basque Country. Finally, the guided tour will conclude with one of Basque culture's main traditions: the hamaiketako (morning snack) at one of Zumaia's oldest gastronomic societies.

We can offer visitors that and more, as both Basque and our identity are our added values. But, remember! These are things that you won't be able to touch; you'll have to experience them, but you'll be able to do so, up close. Do you want to discover our intangible heritage? Come to Zumaia and, if you have the chance, take The Enigma of Basque Language guided tour, on which you’ll learn all about one of Europe's oldest cultures. Can you imagine a better outing than that?