Spring cultural programme
The University of the Basque Country’s International Welcome Centre has launched a new edition of the “Spring Cultural Programme”.
These activities, aimed at exchange students and international researchers, are designed to help visitors to the University of the Basque Country discover the cultural heritage of the Basque Country.
Don’t miss this chance to explore new parts of our region and make new friends!
Activities in Araba
Activity OUTSIDE THE CITY: Varona Tower in Valdegovía
An opportunity to discover the most epic side of Alava’s heritage: step inside a 14th century tower that has been home to the same family for over six centuries, where every corner tells tales of battles, nobles and the medieval life that shaped Alava.
Date: Saturday 9 May
Bus departure from Vitoria-Gasteiz: location and time to be confirmed.
Start of the tour: 13:00
End of the tour: 14:00
Activity IN THE CITY: Vitoria-Gasteiz Cathedral
During the tour of the cathedral and the tower, visitors will be able to explore every corner of the cathedral, from the underground crypt to the triforium, not forgetting the walkway and the spectacular ‘portico of light’. You will reach the bell tower to enjoy a unique panoramic view of the Llanada Alavesa (flatland landscape) by walking along the new panoramic walkway and staircase located in the restored room above the portico or by taking a modern glass-enclosed lift that ensures accessibility.
Date: Thursday 16 April
Tour starts: 17:45
Tour ends: 19:30
Activities in Bizkaia
Activity OUTSIDE THE CITY: Visit the Oma Forest
A unique art gallery set amidst nature, where you can discover the work of artist Agustín Ibarrola, who transformed more than 800 pine trees into a forest-museum where the figures come to life as you walk amongst the trees. The tour takes place in two groups, each led by two local guides. Fernando Baceta Gobantes, a lecturer at the University of the Basque Country (EHU), who led the project to move the paintings from the Oma forest to the Basobarri forest, will give a brief introduction to the site.
Date: Saturday 25 April
Departure from Bilbao: location and time to be confirmed
Start of the tour: 11:00
End of the tour: 14:00
Activity IN THE CITY: Architectural boat tour of the Bilbao River
An opportunity to discover the architectural and urban development that Bilbao has undergone, viewed from the estuary. The tour takes place on a covered electric boat, departing from the jetty at the Hotel Consulado in Bilbao and travelling to the Bizkaia Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in Portugalete. An English-speaking architect will provide details on the city’s development.
Date: Wednesday 29 April
Tour starts: 18:00
Tour ends: 20:00
Activities in Gipuzkoa
Activity OUTSIDE THE CITY: Visit the Igartubeiti "Baserri"-Museum and make your own apple juice
The Igartubeiti Farmhouse Museum is a farmhouse that retains its original 16th-century structure and is located in Ezkio. Ibon Tellería, a lecturer at the University of the Basque Country (EHU) and an expert on farmhouses, will provide an explanation of the historical context of this iconic structure of the Basque heritage. In this sensory and dynamic experience, you will learn about the cider-making process: treading the apples by hand with the treading boards, and once the apples have been pressed, tasting the juice extracted from them.
Date: Saturday 18 April
Departure from the Gipuzkoa Campus in Donostia: location and time to be confirmed.
Start of the tour: 11:00
End of the tour: 13:00
Activity IN THE CITY: Explore and get a taste of the old port of Donostia
A chance to discover the most authentic side of Donostia: explore the city’s maritime heritage in the company of guides from the Basque Maritime Museum, rounding off the tour with a seasonal tasting on the museum terrace or in the ganbara.
Date: Thursday 23 April
Tour starts: 17:30
Tour ends: 19:00