The Association of the friends of Bertsolaritza Territories Iparralde Introduction

Introduction

The continental Basque Country, as with the peninsular, has given us some great bertsolaris: Piarres Topet “Etxahün”, Fernando Aire “Xalbador” and Martin Treku “Mattin”, amongst others. Despite having these great names and bertsolaritza from times of yore, given the scant economic development in Lower Navarre and Zuberoa and the concomitant emigration, the survival of Euskara - not to mention that of bertsolaritza - is hanging on a thread.

Efforts over the last few years have given reason for hope. Bertsolaritza is beginning to take root, mainly through the recovery of the art form in a number of localities, within the compulsory education system and through the adult literacy campaigns.

Territories: Gipuzkoa History