Irún: Roman traces, the Camino de Santiago, and mining history

When looking for a hotel in Irún, you can choose your destination based on the subjects that interest you during your trip: Roman archaeology, traces of the Camino de Santiago, mining history, or the tradition of the San Marcial festival. Irún brings together different points of interest, from archaeological collections and historic buildings to a short route and a restored mining site.

Roman history at the Oiasso Museum and the Ermita

The Oiasso Museum brings together significant archaeological remains from the Roman period, recovered over recent decades through excavations in the surrounding area. Its collections are arranged across three galleries: Impacto, Puerto, and Oiasso. The Oiasso gallery explores everyday life in an early imperial Roman city, including food, clothing, writing, leisure, and religion. These subjects range from daily life to communication and religious practice.

The site of the Santa Elena Necropolis was initially used as a necropolis, or cemetery, for the inhabitants of Oiasso. At the Ermita de Santa Elena are the remains of a 1st-century Roman temple of the “in antis” type, as well as the remains of an indigenous necropolis. The present-day hermitage is used as a museum and is a second building of the Museo Romano Oiasso. The temple and burial ground are two distinct archaeological points of interest here.

Mining history and a view of the Bidasoa

Mining history takes center stage at the Hornos de Irugurutzeta. The site has been restored and prepared for cultural and tourist visits. The visit includes access to a mining gallery, where the work involved in extracting ore is recreated. Unlike the galleries of the Oiasso Museum, which explore aspects of Roman daily life, the gallery illustrates mining work.

Gazteluzahar Castle stands on a hill overlooking the Behobia district and the strategic ford of the Bidasoa. It is one of five sites designated as monumental ensembles by the Basque Government and associated with the Camino de Santiago along its route through Irún. At the same time, Gazteluzahar is considered an important part of Gipuzkoa’s cultural heritage. Its topographical location, connection to the Camino de Santiago, and regional heritage significance come together here.

The Camino de Santiago, the Greenway, and San Marcial

The Santiago branch of the Camino de Santiago runs from the International Santiago Bridge to Plaza San Juan Harria. The route is 1,550 meters long and has a low difficulty level. Its start and finish mark out a clearly defined section; the length and difficulty level can help guide you when choosing a route.

The Greenway follows the Bidasoa River. It is an easy walking route, suitable for all audiences and particularly intended for pedestrians and cyclists. The two routes have different focuses: the Santiago branch is described in terms of its route, length, and difficulty level, while the Greenway emphasizes its riverside setting and opportunities for walking or cycling.

The San Marcial festival offers another way to explore Irún’s history and traditions. On June 30, San Marcial Day, residents commemorate their victory over French troops in 1522. The festival is marked by the smell of gunpowder, historic costumes, drums, Txibilito music, and a parade. If you would like to plan your trip around the San Marcial festival, check the festival dates in advance.

Discover more destinations: Aizarna, Antzuola, Getaria, Olaberria, Bidania, Mendaro, Zaldivia, Aia

For the broader travel overview: Gipuzkoa.