Ermua can be explored through several distinct facets. The landscape is marked by rugged terrain and striking valleys hemmed in by steep slopes. In the town, church architecture and palaces sit alongside historic route connections and contemporary cultural life. The festivities also have specific dates. You can therefore consider cultural history, hiking and the events calendar as separate aspects of planning your trip.
Routes through landscape and history
The historic Camino Real linked Bizkaia and Gipuzkoa. Ermua was also on a pilgrims’ route of the Way of St James that followed the coast from Irún to Itziar. These two route connections give the town’s history a regional dimension.
For a hike, the PR-BI 70 is a circular route that starts and ends at the park in the Okin Zuri neighbourhood. Some sections follow the river alongside the old Camino Real. Its starting point, circular layout and connection to the historic route are therefore clearly defined. If you plan to follow the route, check the details locally before setting out.
Church and palaces
The Iglesia de Santiago Apóstol was built in the 16th century and extended and rebuilt in 1602. It has a single nave flanked by chapels. “Single nave” means it has one main nave, with the chapels on either side. The high altar is particularly striking: an impressive, unpainted Baroque work in walnut, with richly ornamented Solomonic columns. “Unpainted” means the wood has no coloured finish. The church’s architectural form, materials and ornamentation offer several different ways to describe its architecture.
The Palacio Marqués de Valdespina was built in the first half of the 18th century, close to the first quarter of that century. It is considered one of the most important Baroque buildings in the Basque Country. In contrast to the church, whose building history dates back to the 16th century, the palace represents a later building period.
The Palacio Lobiano is a different type of building: a Renaissance palace from the 16th century. It houses Ermua’s Casa de Cultura, with an exhibition space, an auditorium and rooms for painting, theatre and dance. As individual facilities may change, check what is currently available before visiting.
Festivities and dates
The patron saint festivities in honour of Saint James take place from 24 to 27 July; the accompanying programme of events begins on 14 July. The Santiagos are distinguished by a wide range of activities, community participation and colourful Txarangas. The programme may vary from year to year. If you are planning your trip around the festivities, check the dates for your chosen year before booking your stay.
The Feria de San Martín takes place on the Saturday closest to the feast day of Saint Martin. Here, too, the exact date depends on the calendar; check it if you are planning your trip around the fair.
Discover more destinations: Lanestosa, Mungia, Orduña, Altamira-San Kristobal, Portugalete, Getxo, Mundaka, Izartza.
For the broader travel overview: Bizkaia.
