The Basque Country

The Basque Country is a region that spans parts of northern Spain and southwestern France. The Basque people have their own language, food, and traditions that are very different from the rest of Spain and France. The Basque language is one of the oldest in Europe and is not related to any other language.

Land and People

About 3 million people live in the Basque Country. The biggest city is Bilbao, which is famous for the Guggenheim Museum. The region has green hills, mountains, and a coastline along the Bay of Biscay. The landscape is lush and rainy compared to much of Spain.

Culture and Fun Facts

The Basque language, called Euskara, is a mystery because it is not related to any other known language. Basque food is considered some of the best in the world, with many famous chefs coming from the region. The Basque people have unique sports, including stone lifting and wood chopping. The running of the bulls in Pamplona is a famous Basque tradition.

Fun Facts

• The Basque language, Euskara, is not related to any other language in the world.
• The Basque Country has more Michelin-starred restaurants per person than almost anywhere else.
• The Basque sport of pelota is similar to squash but played with a curved basket on the hand.

Did You Know?

The Basque language is one of the great mysteries of linguistics. It is not related to Spanish, French, or any other known language. Scientists believe it may have been spoken in Europe before any other existing language.