Urkiola Sanctuary

Urkiola Sanctuary is a Catholic church in Abadiño situated at 750 meters above sea level between three Basque provinces. The neomedieval structure from the 20th century replaced earlier buildings that once stood on this religious site.

Religious structures have occupied this site since the 9th century, serving as a gathering place for believers. The present building was completed in 1933 as the third major construction on these hallowed grounds.

The sanctuary is dedicated to Saint Anthony of Padua and displays 17th-century artworks within its walls. These works shape the character of the space and draw visitors inward.

The sanctuary is reachable via the Durango-Vitoria road and lies roughly 40 kilometers from Bilbao and 30 kilometers from Vitoria. The location offers convenient road access for those planning a visit.

Rainwater falling on the roof divides between the Cantabrian Sea and the Mediterranean Sea due to the location at this natural watershed. This geographic quirk makes the spot a remarkable point on the landscape.

Location: Abadiño

Inception: 1933

Architects: Francisco Javier Sáenz de Oíza

GPS coordinates: 43.09940,-2.64333

Latest update: December 10, 2025 15:58