A Name with Roman Roots

The very name “Forua” already gives us clues about its past. It comes from the Latin word forum, which referred to a market or public square. And indeed, the Romans set up a thriving trading settlement here in the heart of the Urdaibai estuary. They were natural-born merchants, and they strategically chose this spot as a hub for exchanging goods. Today, you can still see the remains of that settlement, which was active from the 1st to the 3rd century AD.

A Walk Through History: The Roman Settlement

If you want to travel back in time, you don’t need a sci-fi machine—just visit the Roman settlement of Forua. Discovered in 1982, this archaeological site reveals how the Romans made the most of the region’s resources. Metalworking, trade, and a well-placed port turned this location into a key economic hub. Among the most important finds are two Roman altars carved from Ereño’s red marble, featuring Latin inscriptions that prove the site’s significance.

During its peak in the 2nd century, this settlement must have been bustling with activity. However, by the 4th century, its inhabitants abandoned it, seeking refuge in nearby caves like Peña Forua. Trouble with invaders? A shift in priorities? We don’t know for sure, but the mystery makes this place even more intriguing.

San Martín de Tours Church: Centuries of Devotion and Secrets

In the heart of Forua stands San Martín de Tours Church, which has been around since the 11th or 12th century. At the time, it was a crucial gathering place for the locals, who no longer had to travel long distances to attend mass. Over the centuries, it has undergone various renovations, the most notable in the 16th century, when it adopted the Gothic-Renaissance style typical of Basque stonemasons.

But what’s truly fascinating about this church isn’t just its architecture—it’s what lies inside. The baptismal font is actually a repurposed Roman altar, a relic from the settlement’s past.

Beneath the church’s foundations is a necropolis spanning from the Roman era to the 19th century, making it the most important burial site in all of Bizkaia. Hidden underground are nearly eighteen centuries of history, from early Roman settlers to more recent inhabitants of the region. A real-life time capsule.

A (Nearly) Forgotten Castle: Urdaibai Tower

Forua also boasts its own fortress: Urdaibai Tower, one of the sturdiest strongholds in medieval Bizkaia. Over the centuries, fires and time have taken their toll, but the tower still stands, reminding us of the area’s strategic importance.

Locals call it “Castillo Perejil” (Parsley Castle) because, like parsley in Basque cuisine, it seems to be everywhere—you can spot it from multiple points around the estuary. If you’re up for a scenic walk, a rural path from Gernika will take you to the tower, passing through charming farmhouses and rolling green fields.

Nature, Trails, and Birdwatching

Forua isn’t just history and ruins—it’s also a paradise for nature lovers. Being part of the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, it offers breathtaking landscapes and hiking trails for all levels. Whether you prefer a relaxing stroll along the estuary or a more challenging hike up the surrounding hills, there’s something for everyone.

And if you’re a birdwatching enthusiast, you’re in luck: not far from Forua is the Urdaibai Bird Center, a prime location to observe migratory birds in their natural habitat. A perfect plan for nature lovers looking to connect with the region’s rich ecosystem.

Forua: A Hidden Treasure in Urdaibai

Forua is one of those places that surprises you. At first glance, it may seem like just another Basque village, but once you start exploring, you realize it’s full of history and fascinating spots. From its Roman past to its stunning natural surroundings, this small corner of Urdaibai has plenty to offer.

So next time you visit Gernika, make a stop in Forua. You won’t regret it!