When we think Spain, our mind immediately transports us to the charming lights of Madrid, the innovative architecture of Barcelona and the warm and vibrant atmosphere that permeates every corner of these cities. We imagine the sound of flamenco guitars, the intense flavors of paella and the pulsating energy of open-air markets. However, There is another side to this splendid nation., less known but equally fascinating, which almost seems like something out of a storybook.
Welcome to the Basque Country, a region where the beauty of the lush vegetation combines with the intense blue of the sea, creating landscapes of impressive beauty. This territory holds true natural wonders, with its majestic mountains, rivers and countless forests. Among them there is one that stands out from all the others: the Oma Forest (known as “Omako Basoa” in the Basque language). Not just any forest, but A true work of art open sky.
In fact, in 1984, the talented sculptor and painter AgustĂn Ibarrola transformed it into a true artistic masterpiece. With a bold and colorful style, he has painted trees and rocks, creating a unique work of art. Today, this charming place has become a natural museum, where art and nature blend harmoniously.
The magic of Oma Forest: a universe of colors
Il Oma Forest, located in the neighborhood of the same name in the municipality of Kortezubi, is the symbol of how, at times, art can enhance and reinterpret the natural landscape.
It all began in the period between 1982 and 1985, when AgustĂn Ibarrola decided to merge his talent with nature. With mastery and creativity he transformed tree trunks into authentic living canvases, creating a Silent and powerful dialogue with the landscape. surrounding. The result was surprising: 47 performances Unique, an explosion of colors and creativity.
A great defender of "land art", a contemporary artistic movement born in the United States in the 60s, he highlighted the importance of intervene in nature so as not to alter it, but to highlight its beauty. Instead of creating works of art to display in galleries or museums, the landscape is used as a blank canvas, to make art accessible to all and reject the economic aspect and artistic creation material.
A series of images are painted on the surfaces of the trees, ranging from animals to geometric and human figures, including partial representations such as eyes and lips. These works are not visible at first glance. In fact, they require a more careful and global observation, which takes into account the entire perimeter of the trunks. Ibarrola's art, in this context, is structured in such a way that it only reveals its full meaning when the environment as a whole is observed.
To help visitors experience this view, signs have been placed on the trees indicating the exact place to look from. By following these indicators, it is possible to position yourself in such a way that you can admire the entire scene as the artist conceived it, thus discovering the true essence of the Oma Forest: a place where art and nature merge in an attractive and stimulating visual dialogue.
Oma's forest: fun and art in contact with nature
Immersed in the lush beauty of Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, northeast of Kortezubi, is located Oma Forest, an unmatched artistic and natural wonder. This charming place is a true treasure for those who want to combine the love of art and the environment in a single experience.
Here, creativity is not limited to the walls of a museum, but lives and breathes among the trees, offering a fascinating and interactive way to connect with the landscape. In every corner of the forest, there are new surprises that stimulate imagination and curiosity, making the visit a truly exciting adventure.
Finally, you cannot miss a visit to Grotto of Santimamiñe. This archaeological site, considered one of the most important in the province, is located right at the beginning of the route to the Oma forest, and is famous for its cave paintings, which depict deer, horses and bears in a fascinating vision of prehistoric life. .
These ancient works of art have more than 14.000 years of history and have been recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008.
