Amid misty hills and sheep-filled meadows lies a remarkable spot in northern Navarra. Ziga (Ziga) is a small village that seems frozen in time. Here, greenery lingers all winter, and stone houses with flower-draped balconies create the sense of stepping into an old fable’s illustration.
The village’s main pride is the Church of San Lorenzo (San Lorenzo), known locally as the ‘Cathedral of Baztan.’ This imposing structure, built in the late 16th century, towers over its surroundings and recalls an era when art and faith were inseparable. The church’s façade, crafted in the austere style typical of the Escorial period, immediately draws the attention of anyone arriving in Ziga.
Just a few minutes’ walk from the center is a scenic viewpoint, the Mirador de Baztan (Mirador de Baztan). From here, panoramic views sweep across the valley: down below spread the villages of Irurita (Irurita), Lekaroz (Lekaroz), Elizondo (Elizondo), and Elbete (Elbete), set among scattered farmhouses and clusters of oak and beech trees. It’s the perfect spot to understand why travelers and nature lovers are so drawn to this region.
Ziga has its own little secrets too. Inside the church, there’s an ancient painting of Saint Catherine of Alexandria (Santa Catalina de Alejandría), and nearby, a modern piece by local artist Ana Mari Marín (Ana Mari Marín) dedicated to the traditional procession of townspeople to Egozkue (Egozkue). Such touches show the deep respect locals have for their traditions and history.
Today, Ziga is a quiet, welcoming spot easily reached via a road built back in 1924. Narrow streets, the sound of flowing rivers, and the scent of firewood create an atmosphere of comfort and tranquility. For those tired of the city hustle and seeking a true getaway, this village becomes a real discovery.
