Amaiur, also known as Maya, is a small village in northern Navarre, located in the Baztan Valley near the border with France. Featuring a single long street with beautiful stone houses with red-tiled roofs, it’s surrounded by lush green hills and it is one of the most historically significant villages in Navarre due to its role in the Kingdom of Navarre’s resistance against the annexation by Castile.
Amaiur is best known for the Battle of Amaiur (1522), a key episode in the struggle of the Navarrese resistance against the conquest of the kingdom by Castile. The town was home to an important medieval fortress, the Castle of Amaiur, which served as one of the last strongholds of the independent Kingdom of Navarre. The battle ended with the defeat of the Navarrese forces, marking the final consolidation of Castilian rule over Navarre. Today, the ruins of the castle remain a symbol of Navarrese identity and historical memory.
Most notable attraction on Amaiur are:
- Castle of Amaiur: The ruins of the fortress stand on a hill above the village, offering panoramic views of the Baztan Valley. A monument commemorates the Navarrese resistance and serves as a tribute to those who fought in 1522.
- Amaiur Arch: This stone gateway, located at the entrance of the village, is one of its most emblematic features, leading into the historic center with traditional Basque-style houses.
- Church of Our Lady of the Assumption: A 17th-century church that preserves elements of its earlier medieval structure.
- Molino de Amaiur: A restored traditional mill, where visitors can learn about traditional flour production and taste local corn-based products, such as talo (a type of Basque corn flatbread).
The town, with its rich history and scenic surroundings, attracts both history enthusiasts and those seeking a tranquil experience in the heart of Navarre’s countryside.
