Discover Gopegi

Gopegi brings together medieval and later phases of construction with traditions that return each year. Notable features include the Church of the Assumption, the Goikoetxea or Goikolea Tower directly beside it, and a historic complex of a fountain, livestock trough, and washhouse. Nearby, there is also the pilgrimage to San Roque and the Sarragoa horse fair. Guided horse rides are another option to consider when planning a stay.

Church of the Assumption and Tower

The Church of the Assumption is a single-nave building of medieval origin. In the 16th century, a transept was added. The Romanesque round-arched doorway is flanked by plain columns. The south façade has 21 corbels from the medieval construction phase, decorated with human and animal heads. The church also has a 17th-century altarpiece. The building thus brings together details from different periods: its medieval origins and corbels, a 16th-century extension, and the later altarpiece.

The Goikoetxea or Goikolea Tower stands directly beside the church. It is nearly square and twelve metres high. The two names refer to the same tower. Together with the church, it offers another clearly defined point of interest for anyone interested in Gopegi’s architectural history.

Local History and Bengolarra

Another historic site is the complex of a fountain, livestock trough, and washhouse, built in 1883. The three features served different purposes: collecting water, watering animals, and washing clothes. The complex thus complements the religious architecture with an example of traditional infrastructure.

The Bengolarra recreation area in Gopegi is surrounded by oak trees and landscaped grounds. It adds a distinct point of interest to the village’s built heritage and events. The church, tower, fountain complex, and Bengolarra each offer a different focus rather than the same kind of attraction.

San Roque and the Sarragoa Horse Fair

Near Gopegi, the San Roque Hermitage lies on a historic pilgrimage route, at the entrance to the Dehesa of Gopegi. The annual pilgrimage to San Roque ends with a shared lunch, dancing, and rural sports demonstrations. Its conclusion combines the religious occasion with communal and sporting activities.

The Sarragoa horse fair, also held annually, has a different focus. It takes place in the meadows of Sarragoa between Ondategi and Gopegi. The programme includes sporting demonstrations and the sale of regional products. If you would like to plan your trip around either event, check the exact event dates before making your plans.

Horse-Riding Options and Use of the Bolera

Hípica Gopegi offers guided horse rides in Gorbeia Natural Park. The operator’s activities require an advance reservation, which must be confirmed. If you would like to include a horse ride in your stay, remember to allow time for the reservation to be confirmed.

The municipal Bolera de Bengolarra in Gopegi can be requested for use by anyone, as well as by associations or other organizations. Submitting a request does not automatically guarantee use. Check the conditions before visiting. This helps distinguish guided horse rides from the option of requesting use of the bolera when planning your trip.

Discover more destinations: Murua, Apodaka, Eskuernaga, Lezama, Caicedo-Sopeña, Murgia, Navaridas, Aprikano

For the broader travel overview: Alava.