Basque Country
527 newsUpdates cover local events, incidents, fiestas, holidays, business changes, travel plans and practical regional news for residents, visitors and newcomers.
Single La Primitiva Ticket in Sestao Wins Over Half a Million Euros
A resident of Sestao has secured 573,615 euros from La Primitiva. The winning ticket was validated at a local administration. Several other regions also saw significant prizes distributed.
Laguardia Blends Medieval Walls, Wine Cellars, and Steakhouse Ambition
Laguardia in Álava is redefining rural tourism with its preserved medieval walls, underground wine cellars, and a restaurant offering steaks by cattle breed. The town’s unique blend of history and gastronomy has earned it a place among Spain’s most beautiful villages and a new spotlight in the 2026 Guía Repsol.
Suspect in Azpeitia Taxi Murder Surrenders to Police in Ondarroa
A 43-year-old man with a criminal record has surrendered to police in Ondarroa after being sought for the fatal shooting of a 31-year-old taxi driver in Azpeitia. The Ertzaintza continues its investigation into the high-profile case.
Basque Museum Expert Revives 16th-Century Ties with Indigenous Canada
A Basque museum specialist has reignited centuries-old connections between Euskadi and Canada’s indigenous peoples. Her work now shapes a major cross-Atlantic project, highlighting a legacy of mutual respect and cultural exchange.
Basque Government Restores Semi-Freedom for Ex-ETA Leader ‘Anboto’
The Basque Government has again granted semi-freedom to María Soledad Iparragirre, known as ‘Anboto’. This move comes five months after a judge revoked the same measure. Victims’ groups call it systematic leniency.
Azpeitia Taxi Driver Shot Dead After Deliberate Collision
A taxi driver in Azpeitia was killed by gunfire after his car was rammed. The attacker escaped, prompting a major police operation. The incident has unsettled the local community and intensified security checks.
Man Charged After 181 Graves Desecrated in Gipuzkoa Cemetery
A man faces charges for stealing bronze from 181 graves in Errenteria. The incident has caused distress among families. Local authorities are working to repair the damage before All Saints’ Day.
Mercadona Launches 'Tienda 9' Supermarkets in Madrid and Bilbao
Mercadona has opened its first 'Tienda 9' supermarkets in Madrid and Bilbao. The company invested €11 million in these locations. The new model promises greater efficiency and a focus on fresh products.
Heavy Rains and Storms Hit Northern Spain, Alerts Issued in Galicia
Persistent storms and heavy rainfall are affecting northern Spain, with Galicia facing the most severe conditions. Weather alerts remain in place as temperatures stay unusually low for June. Authorities expect improvement by Friday.
Alejandro Hamlyn Arrested in Dubai After Skipping Spanish Fraud Trial
Spanish businessman Alejandro Hamlyn was detained in Dubai after failing to appear at his major fraud trial. Authorities seek his extradition over a €154 million VAT case linked to Hafesa Energía. The case has drawn attention due to leaked audio involving Leire Díez.
Why a Bilbao Bricklayer Says Small €50 Jobs Are Sometimes Worth It
Marcos Silva, a Bilbao-based bricklayer, argues that taking on €50 jobs can make sense during slow periods. He highlights the realities of freelance construction work in Spain, where staying active and covering costs often outweighs waiting for bigger contracts.
Unusual August Storm Brings Heavy Rains and Alerts to Northern Spain
A rare Atlantic storm is set to disrupt weather across northern and eastern Spain. Authorities have issued rain and storm alerts for several regions. Temperatures are expected to drop sharply in affected areas.
Basque Court Ruling Triples Unemployment Benefit for Domestic Worker
A domestic worker in the Basque Country has seen her unemployment benefit extended from 180 to 480 days after a court recognized nearly 1,000 days of prior service. The ruling challenges Spain’s previous exclusion of household employees from full jobless protection and could signal broader changes.
How Rocío Turns €950 Rentals Into €1,600 Room-by-Room Income
Rocío Baselga manages dozens of rooms in Bilbao, transforming standard rentals into profitable shared flats. She invests around €3,000 per property and aims to recover it within seven months, but the model depends on careful contracts and constant management.
Three Young People Attempt River Journey on Inflatable Unicorn After Missing Bus
After missing the last bus from Soraluze to Elgoibar, three young people tried to return home by floating down the Deba river on an inflatable unicorn. Their journey ended in Maltzaga, still short of their destination, and drew the attention of surprised locals.
Storms and Scattered Rain Disrupt Bilbao’s Weather This Saturday
Bilbao faces a turbulent Saturday with overnight storms and patchy rain. Temperatures will range from 21 to 28°C. Weather conditions are expected to stabilize by the afternoon, but clouds and light showers may persist.
Ophthalmology Emergency Visits Surge After Eclipse, Few Serious Cases
Spanish hospitals faced a sharp rise in eye emergency visits after the solar eclipse. Most cases were mild, with only isolated reports of serious retinal damage. Health authorities remain alert as symptoms may appear days later.
PP-Led Regions Block Debate on Migrant Minors in Ceuta
The Ministry of Infancia accuses PP-governed regions of blocking talks on relocating 1,898 unaccompanied migrant minors from Ceuta. The issue remains unresolved ahead of the key August 27 sectoral meeting.
From Jobless Coach to World Champion: Luis de la Fuente’s Unlikely Rise
Luis de la Fuente once scanned newspapers for coaching jobs in Getxo. Thirteen years later, he led Spain to its second World Cup title. His journey from unemployment to the pinnacle of world football reveals the power of persistence and adaptation.
How a Straw-Bale House in Bizkaia Slashed One Family’s Living Costs
In the Karrantza valley, Erika Yurre’s family left city life behind to build a straw-bale house powered by solar panels and surrounded by their own vegetable garden. Their approach has cut expenses and changed their daily routine, showing what’s possible with local materials and careful planning.
Giant Monopiles Shipped from Bilbao for World’s Largest Offshore Wind Farm
The Trustee, a semi-submersible ship operated by Boskalis, is transporting massive steel monopiles from Bilbao to Teesworks for Hornsea 3, set to become the world’s largest individual offshore wind farm. Each voyage carries three foundations, supporting a project that will power over 3 million UK homes.
Six Face Trial for Egg Attack on PSOE Deputies Before Sánchez Vote
A Madrid judge has ordered six people to stand trial for hurling eggs and insults at PSOE deputies before Pedro Sánchez’s investiture. Prosecutors seek a €8,640 fine for public disorder. The case highlights rising political tensions.
Historic Basque Restaurant Closes After 71 Years in Arrasate
Buenuena, formerly Casa Bueno, has closed in Arrasate after more than seven decades. The family-run restaurant, a mainstay of traditional Basque cuisine, ended its journey as the last four siblings retired. The future of the iconic venue remains uncertain.
DGT Targets 2022 Vehicles: First ITV Inspection Required in 2026
Spanish drivers with cars or motorcycles registered in 2022 must prepare for their first mandatory ITV inspection in 2026. Missing the deadline could mean a €200 fine, regardless of how often the vehicle is used or whether it is parked. Key details on affected license plates and inspection rules.
Prosecutors Seek 30-Year Sentences for Five Former ETA Leaders
Spain's public prosecutor demands 30 years in prison for five ex-ETA leaders over the killing of Gregorio Ordóñez. The case highlights renewed efforts to hold the group's leadership accountable for past attacks.
Dermatologist Warns: SPF 50 and Tanning Gummies Won't Shield You from the Sun
Relying on high-SPF creams or tanning supplements can give a false sense of security. According to dermatologist Jorge Soto, true protection against UV radiation begins with physical barriers like clothing and shade, not just sunscreen or oral products.
Rain and Cooler Temperatures Mark Start of August in Bizkaia
Bizkaia faces a sharp change as August begins, with rain returning and temperatures dropping. Meteorological agencies predict several days of showers and cooler air. The shift follows an unusually warm July in the region.
Former Ulma Group CEO Iñaki Gabilondo Dies Suddenly at 62
Iñaki Gabilondo, who led Ulma Group for 16 years, has died unexpectedly at 62. His passing leaves a mark on Gipuzkoa's business and cooperative landscape. The funeral will be held on Tuesday.
Spanish Teen Arrested as Alleged Leader of Extremist Group 764
A 17-year-old was detained in Gipuzkoa as the suspected head of the extremist group 764 in Spain. Authorities link him to death threats against Irene Montero and Sarah Santaolalla. The case highlights growing concerns over online radicalization.
San Sebastián Mayor Confirms Ban on Street Solidarity Dinners for Homeless
San Sebastián’s mayor has declared the ban on street solidarity dinners for the homeless final. Volunteers urge the city to suspend the measure until a social dining facility opens. The decision has sparked strong reactions.
Santiago de Compostela Joins List of Cities with Rent Price Caps
Santiago de Compostela and six other northern cities now face rent price caps. Over 9 million people live in areas with these controls. The move sparks debate between local and regional authorities.
Repsol’s Pink Fuel Pumps Signal a Shift in Spanish Mobility
Bright pink fuel pumps have started to appear at Repsol stations across Spain, offering drivers a new 100% renewable alternative to traditional petrol and diesel. The move marks a significant step in the country’s transition toward cleaner mobility, with practical implications for motorists and the energy sector.
One Missed Deadline Cost This Self-Employed Woman Her Pension
A self-employed woman in the Basque Country was denied her pension after 16 years of contributions. The court ruled her registration in the RETA system ended too late to qualify under old rules, forcing her to wait longer for retirement benefits.
San Sebastián Halts Volunteer Street Dinners for Homeless Over Safety Concerns
San Sebastián's mayor has abruptly banned volunteer-run street dinners for the homeless, citing hygiene and public order. Over 300 people lose access to nightly meals. The city promises expanded official support, but criticism mounts.
Mercadona to Close All But One Store in Cantabria for Regional Holiday
Mercadona will shut all supermarkets in Cantabria on July 28 for the regional holiday. Only the Laredo store will operate, due to its tourist location. Delivery services and opening hours are also affected.
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