Irañeta

In this corner of the valley, the River Arakil flows calmly whilst the centuries-old oak trees preserve the memory of the landscape between the Aralar and Andía mountain ranges. Here you can sense the tranquillity of the paths winding through protected trees and see the stone of a parish church built over decades. Irañeta is a land of deep roots and a serene outlook, inviting you to discover, at your own pace, the essence of the Sakana region.

General information on Irañeta

The village is situated at the eastern end of the Sakana region, within the Merindad de Pamplona. Its municipal area stretches between the Sierra de Andía to the south and the surroundings of Uharte Arakil to the north. Irañeta retains the tranquil character typical of the mountains, in the heart of the Basque-speaking region and just 32 kilometres from Pamplona.

The municipality operates as a simple local authority, with its town hall on Calle San Gregorio. The surrounding area combines traditional use of the hills with landscape conservation, particularly evident in its beech and oak woodlands.

What to see in Irañeta?

Irañeta boasts several points of interest that combine historical heritage and natural surroundings.

• Church of San Juan Bautista: Built between 1807 and 1879, it has a Greek cross plan and a tower added in 1847. It is the most prominent building in the town centre.
• Medieval bridge over the Arakil: Located to the north of the village, it formed part of the valley’s ancient communication routes.
• Chapel of San Gregorio: On the road out towards Alsasua, documented since the 16th century, with a simple structure and a gabled roof.
• San Miguel Chapel: Located outside the town centre, next to Peña Madalen, with references dating back to the 18th century.
• Path of the monumental oaks: A circular route that takes you past several trees protected for their natural value.
• Natural surroundings: From Irañeta, you can easily reach places such as the Mendukilo Cave or the Sanctuary of San Miguel de Aralar.