SANTUARIO DE ARÁNZAZU

Surrounded by the Akaitz (1,324 m) and Aizkorri (1,544 m) mountains, the Arantzazu sanctuary is set in an imposing site, grandiose in its radical verticality. The Virgin, discovered in 1468 by a shepherd, prompted the local inhabitants to build a humble chapel. The Franciscans then moved in. After several fires, the building was rebuilt several times. In 1950, architects Saenz de Oiza and Laorga set about creating a basilica to replace the previous building, which had become too small. Arantzazu became one of the most important works of contemporary architecture in the Basque Country. Its gray color harmonizes with the immense rock faces of the surrounding mountains. Sculptor Jorge Oteiza designed the façade, where a Pietà ponders suffering, and 14 apostles represent humanity. Beyond Eduardo Chillida's heavy iron doors, the basilica reveals the Lucio Munoz altarpiece, 600 square meters of polychrome wood panels, with the ^13th-century Virgin Mary at its center. The stained glass windows were designed by Xabier Alvarez de Eulate, while the paintings around the Virgin and in the crypt were created by Xabier Egana and Nestor Basterretxea. A must-see for its architectural originality and exceptional natural setting. Take the time to visit the Misterio, the small building located between the Basilica and Gandiaga Topagunea. It takes its name from the "mystery" of the sculpture by Jorge Oteiza.