Euskadi

Land of valiant explorers, of builders of new worlds, of defiant entrepreneurs.  The Basques have left their mark on history through such immortal figures as Juan Sebastián Elcano, the first navigator to sail around the world; Urdaneta and Legazpi, pioneers who opened up the Pacific route between Mexico and the Philippines; Juan de Garay, founder of the city of Buenos Aires; Ignatius Loyola, founder of the Society of Jesus; and Francisco de Vitoria, originator of International Law.

The enterprising spirit of the Basques has stayed strong for centuries, as evidenced in their industrial zones, their markets, their strong financial institutions, and their fishing fleets, which have sailed through all the oceans.

The mountainous terrain through which the pilgrims will be walking, with its pleasant trails, green forests, and steep inclines, will give us a chance to discover the secrets of this land in which such creative and sturdy men and women have been forged.  Those who love natural landscapes will enjoy Euskadi tremendously.  The diversity and beauty of its rugged landscapes is evident not only in the areas which have been designated nature reserves but also in most of the Basque territory.