Iturmendi

Where the name derives from the spring and the mountain, and the River Arakil flows through the valley, Iturmendi unfolds naturally between the Urbasa and Aralar mountain ranges. The essence of the place is felt in the solidity of its ashlar houses, built by generations of mule drivers, and in the tranquillity of the oak groves that still bear the traces of ancient paths. It is a place where stone preserves stories and water whispers a continuous tale, inviting you to explore it at a leisurely pace and to recognise in every corner the living identity of Sakana. 

Iturmendi general information 

The municipality is situated at an altitude of 528 metres, in north-western Navarre, within the district of Pamplona and the region of La Barranca. Its municipal area stretches between the foothills of Urbasa to the south and Aralar to the north, bordering Bakaiku, Urdiain and Ataun.

Its origins date back to the late 14th century, resulting from the union of the settlements of Aitzaga and San Pedro. During the 18th century, it experienced a period of prosperity linked to mule-driven transport and trade, reflected today in the stately architecture of the town centre. It forms part of the Basque-speaking area, where the Basque language maintains an active presence, particularly amongst the younger generations and in the educational sphere, such as at the Arrano Beltza state school. 

What to see in Iturmendi? 

Iturmendi offers a range of places where historical heritage, traditional architecture and routes linked to the natural environment come together. 

• 18th-century civil architecture: Several stately homes built of stone and wood stand out. Among them are the Palace and the Erbiti and Kurtederia houses, the latter featuring a coat of arms dating from 1706 that includes one of the oldest inscriptions in Basque preserved in Navarre.
• Black Eagle Fountain: Built in 1767 in the square, it represents the town’s heraldic symbol.
• Parish Church of San Miguel: A 17th- and 18th-century building situated in the upper part of the town, with a Baroque tower and a high altarpiece dating from 1740.
• Chapels: The municipality has several: Santa Marina (in Urbasa), San Pedro, Pilara (rebuilt in 1714) and Aitzaga, of Romanesque origin (12th century), next to the river.
• Bernoa Track: An ancient medieval route used by mule drivers, now restored as a long-distance trail (GR-323).
• Way of the Cross: A route between the town centre and Aitzaga, consisting of stone crosses with historical inscriptions in Basque.
• Txorralde Washhouse: Built in 1851, an example of traditional daily life linked to the use of water.