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Audio Guide Albaola – Itsas Kultur Faktoria
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Points included in this audio guide
Aingura Ola – Traditional Anchoring
Aingura Ola is the world's sole anchor forge, specialising in the crafting of large-scale anchors. Located within the Albaola complex in Pasaia, it's an essential stop on any visit to the site. Here, traditional forging techniques continue as a revived trade integral to Basque shipbuilding heritage, offering visitors a glimpse into an authentic maritime craft.
Exposición Balleneros Vascos
The Basque Whalers exhibition, housed within Albaola in San Sebastián, charts the maritime expansion of the Basque people and their whaling heritage. Following the story of the transatlantic galleon San Juan, it chronicles how Basque fishermen refined their hunting techniques from the Cantabrian Sea to reach the coasts of Labrador and Newfoundland—over 4,000 kilometres from home. What to see here is a compelling narrative of oceanic ambition and seafaring expertise that shaped European exploration.
San Juan Ship Replica
The Réplica de la Nao San Juan is a full-scale scientific reconstruction of a 16th-century Basque whaling ship, built using traditional techniques and materials before spectators at the shipyard. Measuring 28 metres in length and 7.5 metres in beam, the vessel was launched into Pasajes Bay on 7 November 2025. The launch marked the completion of its land-based construction phase and the beginning of its fitting-out period afloat. What to see includes the authentic construction methods employed throughout the build.
Riverboat Carpentry Workshop
At Albaola in San Sebastián, you can visit the boatbuilding carpentry workshop, where craftspeople practise this traditional Basque maritime trade using historic tools and techniques. The workshop operates publicly on-site, allowing visitors to watch skilled artisans at work. Active boatbuilding forms the heart of Albaola's mission to preserve and showcase traditional seafaring craftsmanship and maritime heritage.
Restoration of the Ozentziyo
The Ozentziyo is the last traditional wooden fishing boat in San Sebastián's harbour and the final example of cacea fishing in the region. Rescued by Albaola in 2015 just before it was due to be scrapped, the vessel now occupies the central space of the Faktoria. You can watch its full restoration in progress during your visit, complemented by an interpretive exhibition on Basque inshore fishing practices.
- 1.Aingura Ola – Traditional Anchoring
- 2.Exposición Balleneros Vascos
- 3.San Juan Ship Replica
- 4.Riverboat Carpentry Workshop
- 5.Restoration of the Ozentziyo
Kids audio available
Kids version available with adapted and fun language for the little ones (12 min)
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