In Basque, Ibarrangelu translates to “deep meadow” (ibar, ‘valley’, ‘meadow’, and angelu, ‘corner’, ‘hollow’, ‘ground’), which gives a clear hint about the type of land its urban core sits on. Hidden behind the imposing Ogoño rock, the village is located in the valley that connects the neighborhoods of Elexalde and Ibinaga, two of its 20 districts.

The village boasts not only stunning beaches but also rich cultural heritage. Among the top attractions are two of the most popular and stunning beaches on the Biscayan coast: Laga and Laida. But there’s much more to discover, including the Church of San Andrés, known as the Sistine Chapel of the Basque Country. This 15th-16th century marvel features a stunning wooden ceiling, carved and painted with extraordinary detail.

For years, the main economic activities of Ibarrangelu were agriculture, livestock, and fishing. Believe it or not, fishing was once key in Ibarrangelu, despite the village being inland (a perfect spot to escape unwanted sea visitors). Almost two centuries ago, the village even had its own port. Elantxobe, just a short distance away, served as the fishing port for Ibarrangelu until it separated in 1833.

Like many Basque villages, the exact founding date remains a mystery. Local resident Alex Azcaray collected old photos, shared by families from the town, to capture its history, traditions, and stunning landscapes. Take a look at this fantastic collection to get a glimpse of the village’s unique personality and identity.

If this sparks your curiosity, don’t hesitate to explore Ibarrangelu further. We’ve got you covered with everything you need to know! To start your journey, check out our post “A Day in Ibarrangelu: What to See and Do.”