Architecture of Basque houses
The history of the Basque house
The history of the Basque house dates back to the Middle Ages, when the first buildings appeared in the verdant landscape of the Basque Country. These houses were traditionally built in stone, an abundant and durable material that guaranteed resistance to the weather in this region of varied climates. The rectangular, elongated shape of Basque houses, designed to accommodate extended families, bears witness to a social organization based on the family and the transmission of goods from generation to generation. Over the centuries, the architecture of Basque houses has evolved, incorporating Gothic, Spanish and even Moorish influences, while retaining its own distinctive style, identifiable by its simple lines and local materials. These subtle evolutions reflect an adaptation to contemporary needs while preserving a deep respect for historical roots.
Fall under the spell of Basque lifestyle and culture
You don't need to visit the Basque Country to know that its traditions are deeply rooted. The pediments in towns and villages will remind you that here, pelota is the king of sports.
As you wander through the narrow streets of these picturesque towns, you'll fall under the spell of the colorful facades and architecture typical of the region, from which dried chillies hang. Want to experience different moods? Take the time to immerse yourself in Biarritz la Bourgeoise, with its beautiful villas overlooking the ocean. Then immerse yourself in Bayonne la Festive, which comes to life with the arrival of the warm weather and the approach of the férias.
Enjoy ham, sheep's milk cheese, pintxos, Biscayan-style cod and buy your favorite local produce at the market to take the edge off. Venture into the heart of Béarn and experience a complete change of scenery in the Pyrenees National Park , home to extraordinary unspoilt landscapes.
Treat yourself to a spa treatment to relax your muscles and start thinking about winter sports: the Basque Country takes on a different charm every season. For further information, please visit the website dedicated to tourism in the Basque Country.
The color of Basque houses
The emblematic colors of Basque houses, notably the deep red of the half-timbering and the immaculate white of the walls, are not simply aesthetic choices. Historically, red paint was obtained from a mixture of iron oxide and ox blood, used not only for its vivid hue but also for its protective properties against insects and bad weather. As for the white of Basque house facades, this was traditionally obtained from lime, a locally available material with disinfectant and insulating qualities. While red is the dominant color of the Basque house, other hues such as green and blue are also present, often symbolizing a link with maritime or mountain influences. These colors are no accident; they respect a visual code that has stood the test of time and contributes to the harmonious landscape of Basque villages.
What is the Maison Labourdine?
The Labourdine house is undoubtedly the best-known type of Basque house. Originally from the Labourd region, they feature half-timbered facades and pitched gable roofs, often covered with orange tiles. Its architecture is designed to respond to local climatic conditions: a relatively low roof to better resist the wind, and overhangs to protect the walls from frequent rainfall. Inside, the Labourdine house is designed around a vast central space, the living room, with side rooms and bedrooms upstairs. Often with a wooden balcony, it reflects a lifestyle centered on family, conviviality and respect for tradition. This type of home, emblematic of the Basque region, is as attractive for its authentic appearance as for its functionality.
Architecture of the Basque house
The architecture of Basque houses is marked by distinctive features such as half-timbering, white walls and pitched roofs covered with red tiles. Half-timbering, the wooden structures visible on the facades, is not only decorative but also structural, reinforcing the house’s framework. Their geometric layout, often in the form of a St. Andrew’s cross, symbolizes stability and robustness. The white walls of the Basque house, thick and often covered with lime, provide natural insulation, keeping cool in summer and warm in winter. The interior is just as carefully thought out, with light-filled spaces, exposed beams and imposing fireplaces reminiscent of traditional family life. The architecture of Basque homes, with their vast common rooms and work areas, reflects an organization of space centered on community living, welcoming and sharing. It’s an architecture that, far from yielding to fleeting fashions, continues to embody a strong identity and timeless elegance. Discover the charms of the Basque house during your stay at our Ibardin campsite in the Basque Country.