Atxorrotx brings together archaeological heritage and landscape in Escoriaza. The fortress stands on a peak at an altitude of 750 metres. Its exceptional panorama offers a sweeping view of the surrounding area. Atxorrotx is in the district of Bolibar in Eskoriatza, in the Debagoiena region of Gipuzkoa, near the border with Araba and Bizkaia and within Aizkorri-Aratz Natural Park. The archaeological site of the castle was declared a monument by the Basque Government in 2012.
Archaeological Sites and Trails
Archaeological remains in Eskoriatza include the Asuntzeta burial mounds and the Mugarriluze menhir. The Ruta de los TĂşmulos offers two route options, making it possible to explore the archaeological theme along a named trail. Another route is called Eskolore: it passes through the districts of Apotzaga and Gellao, north of Eskoriatza, and along the slope of Murugain. Its views extend from the Galartza Tower to the Sierra de Aralar and along the borders of Aramaio; the Asentzio Cross serves as a landmark.
Museum and Craftsmanship
The Museo Ibarraundi is housed in a 15th-century palace of the same name. It is dedicated to history, ethnography and the environment, presenting these subjects through audiovisual media, exhibitions and guided tours. Its exhibits include a replica of the Axtroki gold bowls from the Late Bronze Age. The museum thus brings together different approaches: broad subject areas and a specific object from a distant era.
The Horno de Zubiate tells a different part of the town's history. The ceramic kiln dates from the 19th century and was used to make everyday pottery, such as cups and plates. It is considered one of the best-preserved examples in the Basque Country and is the only example of its kind still preserved in Gipuzkoa. The everyday objects made there offer a different perspective from the archaeological finds and the museum collection.
Palaces and Buildings
Casa Palacio Zalbidegoitia dates from the 18th century and belongs to the tradition of palaces built with income from trade with the Americas. Today, the building houses the municipal cultural centre; its programme may change. The Iglesia de San Pedro is a simple Baroque church from the second half of the 18th century. Notable features include its ashlar tower and the image of Christ beneath the choir loft. The Hospital del SantĂsimo Rosario was built in the early 17th century and declared a monument of provincial historical and artistic significance. Together, these buildings illustrate different chapters in Escoriaza's architectural history.
Districts and Festival Calendar
Eskoriatza today has seven anteiglesias, or rural districts. Each has its own auzo-alkate, or local mayor. The Eskolore route also passes through districts; their names and landmarks bring the description of the landscape to life.
A farming and crafts fair takes place in Eskoriatza on the first weekend of June. The programme includes an exhibition of products, food, handicrafts and animals from local farmsteads, as well as scarecrow and cheese competitions. As dates and programme details may change, check them before your trip.
Discover more destinations: Beizama, Zaldivia, Elgoibar, Deba, Aizarnazabal, Legazpi, Pasaia, Beasain.
Back to the main travel overview: Gipuzkoa.
