THE MOUNTAIN OF IRON
zerain
The best way to see how iron has shaped the land and history of the Basque Country, and especially the village of Zerain, is visiting the mines of Aizpea, known as the Mountain of Iron, and visiting one of the galleries -declared Monumental Complex by the Basque Government’s Ministry of Culture- to admire how iron was extracted in the old days.
Aizpitta’s Interpretation Centre has been created with the purpose of researching the history of the town and showing the tourist the true essence of the place.
Zerain has some other highlights as well: its 18th century prison, its hydraulic sawmil… the guys at their tourist office are eager to show you everything!
The Mountain of Iron
Knowing Zerain is knowing its past in the mining industry. Since the 11th century, iron has been extracted in their Aizpea mines, an externsion of 150 hectares inside Aizkorri-Aratz Natural Park, shaping a very peculiar landscape that is worth a visit.
This mines have been declared Monumental Complex by the Basque Government’s Ministry of Culture.
Aizpitta Interpretation Centre is the place to start your visit! You will clearly see the impact of this industry in the current landscape, our society, the local economy and some sociocultural aspects from the 11th century till now.
How to get there
Explore other plans
in Goierri
Horse riding
KNOW OUR Horse riding Our wide territory allows us the possibility of carrying out innumerable activities and among them, the horse riding. Either in a closed place or doing routes and excursions, …
Nature
TAKE A BREATH OF Nature Basque history and culture have always been surrounded by nature. A perfect match for those who love natural environments and mountain tourism. Goierri is the only region …
Gastronomy
NATURAL AND REMARKABLE LIKE ITS gastronomy We’re certain you will only taste the highest quality in our products… but we'll let you see for yourself: Idiazabal cheese, local cider, Beasain’s sausage, Zaldibia’s …
Plan your trip
PLAN YOUR trip Either coming by yourself, with your partner, family or friends, in Goierri there is a plan for you. We help you organise your trip through suggested routes, historical and mythological …
Culture
A FULL VALLEY OF Culture Pre-history men, mythological beings, kings and princes, malefactors and traders, travelers and pilgrims have crossed Goierri through History. Its strategic location connecting Europe to Castile make Goierri …
Sports
IN ITS PURE STATE Sports Goierri is all about competition and challenge. You will get to see locations that are the real settings of some of the most popular mountain races in …
WE'LL HELP YOU PLAN
your trip
Get to know Euskadi’s highlands
Basque Highlands
Zerain, The Mountain of Iron
A land shaped by iron. Discover the mines of Aizpea in Zerain!
Segura and Ordizia: medieval villages
Explore Segura, a medieval village built under the mandate of Alfonso X of Castile to protect the San Adrián’s Royal Path. Admire their palaces and other buildings. Ordizia has been …
Historical figures: Barandiaran & Zumalacárregui
Did you know Tomás Zumalakarregi was the one who brought the txapela into fashion in the Basque Country? Today, the black beret is one of the symbols of the land.
Goierri, a place of giants. Basque mythology
Get ready for the myths, characters and stories that you will find in this land.
Historic-Artistic Site: Igartza
Are you a fan of Architecure? Discover the complex that the Igartza family built next to river Oria, in Beasain.
Ataun
Ataun is the longest village in Guipúzcoa. Admire its fascinating geological phenomenon: a dome.
Zerain, Cultural Landscape
A land shaped by iron: discover the mines, the hydraulic sawmill and Zerain's prison.
Basque bowls
Bowling is a long practiced game in Goierri, where you will find out their tradition and how fun it can be.
