Amaiur-Maya, human settlement in Baztan, Merindad of Pamplona, Navarre, Spain
Amaiur is a small hamlet in Baztan, Navarre, situated at the foot of Monte Gaztelu with a narrow street lined with old stone houses and palaces like Palacio Arretxea. The medieval church Santa María de la Asunción with its simple stone walls sits prominently in the village, and a rounded archway marks the natural entrance to the center.
Amaiur was the last stronghold of Navarre's resistance against Castilian conquest, which officially took place in 1512. Defenders held the castle for ten more years before surrendering in 1522, making this place a crucial moment in Navarre's loss of independence.
Amaiur, also known locally as Maya, reflects the Basque identity of the Baztan valley. The village church Santa María de la Asunción and the stone palaces line the narrow street, showing how this community organized itself around faith and family heritage over many generations.
Wear comfortable shoes as the climb to the castle site is steep and the area is best explored on foot. Parking is available near the hamlet, and roads from nearby towns are easy to navigate for a short visit.
The Molino de Amaiur has been milling flour since the 1700s and is known for Talos, a traditional dish made from local flour with various toppings that reflects the eating habits of this region. Visitors can taste an authentic local preparation tied to the area's history.
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