Donamaria

Under the watchful eye of the tower that dominates the landscape, the meadows stretch out between the villages of Donamaria and Gaztelu. The landscape unfolds in the neighbourhoods of Askarraga, Artze and Igurin, where the medieval defensive architecture of the Jauregia Tower coexists with the life of the convents and the memory of emigration to distant lands. In this corner of Baztan-Bidasoa, the landscape speaks for itself, allowing you to sense the rhythm of a culture that remains closely tied to its mountainous character.

Donamaria general information

This municipality maintains a historical identity linked to its landscape. Until 1845, it formed part of the Ibargoiara valley before becoming an independent municipality with its administrative centre in the village of Donamaria.

Its location is ideal for nature lovers, bordering Doneztebe/Santesteban to the north and Bertizarana and the Baztan Valley to the east. To the south, the mountains form a natural border with Ultzama, making Donamaria a charming stop-off point on the route through Baztan-Bidasoa.

What to see in Donamaria?

Donamaria’s heritage is a history lesson written in stone and wood.

Jauregia Tower: Situated on a watchtower at the entrance to the village, this 14th–15th-century building features a Gothic structure combining a stone lower section with two upper storeys of wooden. Declared a Site of Cultural Interest, it remains one of the finest examples of civil architecture in the Baztan-Bidasoa region.

Convent of the Discalced Carmelites: It is situated in the former Aguerrea mansion, a stately 18th-century building. Since 1960, this imposing building has been home to a cloistered community. Its architecture reflects the transformation of noble estates into spaces for contemplative life

Gaztelu Washhouse: Built in 1888 with contributions from those who emigrated to Cuba, this site preserves an old wooden horse-stanchion historically used for shoeing livestock. It stands as a testament to the legacy of the ‘Indianos’ and the traditional uses of the local environment.

The villages of Askarraga and Artze: These settlements feature traditional fountains and farmhouses that embody the essence of Malerreka’s vernacular architecture, blending naturally into the mountainous landscape.