Gernika-Lumo

Gernika-Lumo is a town in Bizkaia set within the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, along the estuary of the Oka River. It carries deep historical significance: the Assembly House (Casa de Juntas) stands here, where representatives of the Lordship of Bizkaia once gathered beneath the ancient oak known as the Tree of Gernika — a complex declared a Cultural Heritage Site and an enduring symbol of Basque self-governance. The bombing of 1937 left an indelible mark on the town. Today, the Peace Museum addresses that episode through an interactive and humanist approach, making it a place of memory and reflection. The Euskal Herria Museum offers a complementary journey through Basque history and culture. Beyond its historical heritage, Gernika-Lumo has a lively local character. The Monday market and the great October fair — with around 900 stalls — are landmark events for the whole comarca. The town is also home to the Jai Alai fronton, reputed to be the largest active fronton in the world.