Eratsun

Perched at an altitude of 532 metres, the landscape of Eratsun bears the imprint of prehistory in Malerreka. In the shadow of Iruñarri, the village preserves traces of menhirs amongst beech woods, whilst the sound of the pelota in the central square sets the rhythm of daily life. Here, the solidity of the stone houses and the course of the River Ezkurra define a landscape where the physical reality and memory of pastoral life coexist with the heritage of the mountain peaks at Baztan-Bidasoa.

Eratsun general information

This is a region of exceptional natural beauty, where the green of the meadows blends into the slopes of the Malerreka valley. The pulse of the place is set by the murmur of the water and the sound of the cowbells of the livestock grazing on the hillsides. In Eratsun, the traditional ashlar architecture is intertwined with a history stretching back thousands of years, guarded by mountains that keep the traditional ways of the area alive. The people who live in this village uphold a way of life where hospitality is expressed in a discreet manner, sharing the experience of a space that simply exists, far from the hustle and bustle of the outside world.

What to see in Eratsun?

Eratsun’s heritage allows you to observe the union between ancient archaeology, traditional sports and mountain civil architecture.

• Iruñarri and Azpilleta menhirs: In the local hills, these monoliths mark the presence of humans since ancient times. The Azpilleta menhir stands out for its size, whilst the Iruñarri menhir remains standing beside the path, allowing one to observe the integration of prehistory into the current forest landscape.
• Eratsun Square (The Fronton): Located in the centre of the village, this square is where handball remains a daily fixture. As the birthplace of pelotaris, the fronton is not presented as an attraction, but as a meeting place where technique is passed down through the generations.
• Town centre and Church of San Estanislao: A stroll through its streets reveals carefully preserved architecture. The church stands out for its Latin cross plan and a very distinctive bell tower with a circular base. Nearby, the town hall with its semicircular arch and the well-preserved traditional wash house complete the typical picture of Malerreka.
• Natural surroundings of the River Ezkurra: The river flows through the municipal area, defining the boundaries of a mountainous landscape where water and vegetation shape the character of Baztan-Bidasoa.