Etxalar Pigeon Lofts
Every fall, whenever a north or east wind blows, the sky over Etxalar is filled with thousands of pigeons. More than 600 years ago, a shepherd took to throwing stones at them. Seeing them descend, a bishop encouraged him to set up nets to catch them. And so “pigeon netting” was born—a unique form of hunting, found nowhere else on the Iberian Peninsula, that has been practiced ever since. Throughout its history, it has attracted distinguished spectators such as Emperor Napoleon III and Kings Alfonso XII and XIII. Today, it has been designatedan Asset of Cultural Interest.
Using paddles shaped like falcons, small flags, whistles, and nets, this is how the traditional pigeon hunt with nets is carried out in Etxalar.
The hunter in the watchtower sounds the alarm. He has spotted some pigeons. He gives the signal with the flag. The net throwers then launch their nets to bring the flock down and guide it toward the nets, and… when the pigeons are low enough, they cast the net. That’s why in Etxalar, pigeons aren’t counted by the piece, but by the dozen.
During hunting season, guided tours are offered to the pigeon hunts so visitors can see this ancient and unique form of hunting “in situ.” This tradition can also be experienced on Pigeon Hunt Day, an open house event during which the residents of Etxalar showcase their most cherished tradition.
Treaty of Lizaieta
Every year, at the end of September, the Treaty of Lizaieta is commemorated. The countdown to hunting season begins.
The Treaty of Lizaieta dates back to 1856, but there were three documented milestones in 1959, 1984, and 1990
It was on September 4, 2011, that the mayors of Etxalar and Sara revived this Memorandum of Understanding. Since then, every year as October approaches, they renew the agreement with a celebration at the Lizaieta Pass. It is a day of friendship between the two towns that helps preserve this ancient hunting tradition.