From Iturrieta
100 km
By car
1h 30 min
Legend
Covens
Interest
Natural Caves
Zugarramurdi: The Village of the Witches
Zugarramurdi is a place where reality and legend merge inseparably. This small and charming village in the Navarrese Pyrenees is world-famous for the 'Witches' Caves', an impressive natural cavity where, according to Inquisition documents, covens and pagan rituals were held.
Visiting the cave is a uniquely atmospheric experience: a 120-metre natural tunnel carved by the Olabidea stream. But Zugarramurdi is also a village of well-kept streets and traditional architecture that invites you to stroll. To understand the historical context of the 1610 witch hunt, a visit to the Witchcraft Museum, housed in the former village hospital, is essential.
Practical information
The Great Cave
Its sheer size is impressive. It's easy to imagine the bonfires and dances in this awe-inspiring natural setting.
Witchcraft Museum
It explains seriously and didactically what really happened during the Inquisition trial against the people of this valley.
Smugglers' Path
There is a route marked with blue pottokas linking Zugarramurdi with the caves of Sara and Urdax. A beautiful cross-border walk.
Traditional Food
Enjoy mountain cuisine in the farmhouse restaurants nearby. The lamb and local sheep's cheese are excellent.
Zugarramurdi in Cinema
If you enjoy cinema, you'll recognise many settings from the film 'Las brujas de Zugarramurdi' by Álex de la Iglesia.
Close to France
You're a stone's throw from the border. You can take the opportunity to visit the French village of Sara, considered one of the most beautiful in France.