2024-09-29
The best things to do and visit in Ordizia include exploring one of the most important medieval towns in the Gipuzkoa province of the Basque Country. Primarily known for its market, which has been operating every Wednesday for over 500 years, there’s so much more to see and do in Ordizia!
Undoubtedly, a weekly market that has existed for over 500 years is exceptional and worth experiencing.
However, Ordizia is more than just its medieval market. The historic center is charming, with palaces and stately homes adorned with frescoes and iron balconies.
You can visit churches, the Plaza Nagusia where the aforementioned market takes place, or simply enjoy a stroll.
The culinary culture is celebrated not only in the local taverns and restaurants (jatetxe) but also in a unique interpretive center, D’Elikatuz.
So here is a complete guide on what to do and visit in Ordizia, in the Basque Country.
Best Things To Do and Visit in Ordizia
The historic center of Ordizia is declared a historical-monumental ensemble, highlighting its cultural significance.
As you walk through its streets, you’ll encounter several notable buildings, starting with the Parish Church of Our Lady of the Assumption, the Muxika Tower House, the Zabala and Barrena Palaces, and the monument to Friar Andrés de Urdaneta, among others.
Here are my top recommendations for places to visit in Ordizia:
Visiting the Ordizia Market (Wednesday)
Despite the Goierri region’s significant industrial development, it still retains many traditional customs that are vividly evident in the weekly market.
In fact, the first market in Ordizia dates back to the 11th century, and it was only after the great fire of 1512 that the city enjoyed tax exemptions during the market.
The market takes place every Wednesday at Plaza Mayor, or Plaza Nagusia, and has been held there for centuries. Therefore, it should definitely be on your list of things to do in Ordizia.
Visit the Church of Our Lady of the Assumption
The Church of Our Lady of the Assumption dates back to the 16th century, but it was built on the site of an earlier church from the 13th or 14th century.
Notable features of the church include the main altarpiece by Bernabé Cordero and a Gothic 14th-century Virgin Andra Mari.
Discovering D’Elikatuz
D’Elikatuz, in Ordizia, is a museum and interpretive center dedicated to Basque cuisine and gastronomy.
As you explore the various floors, you are taken on a journey through local textures and flavors, while also promoting health through balanced diets.
I particularly enjoyed the section dedicated to Idiazabal cheese and the video about the Ordizia market, which has been operating every Wednesday for over 500 years!
In addition to the exhibits, the ground floor houses a tourist information desk where you can learn more about the Goierri region.
Accommodation in Ordizia
Although I did not stay overnight in Ordizia, as my base for the trip was Tolosa, if you prefer accommodation in the region, here is a map with all the options.
I stayed at Hotel Bide Bide Tolosa and was very pleased with it.
Everything You Need to Know Before Traveling to Ordizia
Where is Ordizia and How to Get There?
Ordizia is located in the southern part of the Gipuzkoa province, in the valley of the Oria River. Ordizia belongs to the Goierri region. The heart of Ordizia is situated on the left bank of the Oria River.
What is the History of Ordizia and Its Famous Medieval Market?
Ordizia was founded by King Alfonso X of Castile in 1268, following a strategic defense plan that also included Tolosa and Segura.
However, King Alfonso changed the name in the Town Charter to Villafranca, granting it exemption from any royal tax.
Neighboring towns such as Arama, Ataun, Beasain, Altzaga, Gaintza, Legorreta, Zaldibia, Itsasondo, and Lazkao, due to prevailing insecurity in the fields caused by the presence of criminals and some local nobles, joined Villafranca to protect themselves from these dangers and simultaneously benefit from these privileges.
On April 8, 1399, Villafranca welcomed all these people with the signing of the Book of Concord, which granted full powers to the Mayor of Ordizia for 200 years, until 1615, when these towns regained their independence.
At that time, Villafranca was surrounded by a wall and had four entrances: Portal de Francia, located between the two palaces, Barrena and Jakes; Portal de La Soledad or Portal del Retén, at the end of San Pedro Street; Portal de Castilla, at one end of the main street (Calle Mayor); and Portal de Garagartza, next to the Gazteluzar Palace.
Since most buildings within the wall were made of wood, fires became a major issue.
This is how a fire devastated almost the entire town on March 18, 1512.
To help, Queen Juana “La Loca” (Joanna the Mad) provided some financial aid for the town’s reconstruction and also granted the right to hold a tax-free market every Wednesday.
Thus was born the famous Ordizia Market on Wednesdays!
Is It Worth Visiting Ordizia?
Yes, it is definitely worth visiting Ordizia, as it is a very beautiful place with a rich history.
It is also away from the usual tourist routes in the Basque Country, making it less crowded and more peaceful to explore.
How Much Time is Needed to Visit Ordizia?
One or two days are sufficient to explore Ordizia.
When is the Best Time to Visit Ordizia?
On July 26th, the Festa de Santa Ana is celebrated, featuring parades, international cycling competitions, and more.
It is also the day for the “cuadrillas,” or groups of friends, and the Santaneros.
One of the most interesting traditions, dating back to 1509, involves the dance of couples who married that year.
So, if you enjoy experiencing unique traditions, July is the ideal time to visit Ordizia. I traveled in June and, although I did not participate in this celebration, I thoroughly enjoyed the city.
*I visited Tolosa and Goierri (including Ordizia) on a Fam Trip organized by Inbasque DMC and as part of TBEX Europe. I was supported by Brian Cullen Bruneval from Tolosaldea Tourism, who accompanied the group as a tour guide.
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- 15 Interesting Facts About Bilbao I Bet You Didn’t Know
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