Elexalde Mobility

On Wednesday, 14th October, the Italian students  arrived at the airport at 3:30 p.m., where they were welcomed by their Basque host families. This marked the beginning of their exchange experience, giving them the opportunity to meet their host families, settled into their new homes and started discovering Basque culture and traditions.

On Thursday, 15th October, the Italian students visited the beautiful Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, one of the most important natural areas in the Basque Country. They  enjoyed its stunning landscapes, green mountains and beautiful coastline. During the visit, they learnt about the local environment, discovered the region’s rich biodiversity and understood the importance of protecting nature and preserving its natural heritage.

During the visit, the students  explored Mundaka, a  coastal village famous for its fishing traditions, picturesque harbour and excellent surfing conditions. They walked through its beautiful streets, enjo ed the coastal scenery , some students even swam and finlly, learnt  about the importance of the sea in Basque culture and local traditions. They also discovered  the village’s unique atmosphere and its connection with the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve. This visit was   a great opportunity to learn about the local environment and enjoy the beauty of the Basque coast.

Afterwards, the Italian students visitedc the Assembly House of Gernika at 1:15 p.m., one of the most important historical and political places in the Basque Country. They learnt about its role in Basque institutions and discovered how the Basque people have preserved their traditions, laws and cultural identity throughout history. They  also explored the building and learnt about the importance of Basque self-government. This visit  helped them understand how history has shaped the region and its society today. 

During the visit, they  also saw the famous Tree of Gernika, a symbol of freedom, peace and Basque identity. They learnt about its historical importance and the bombing of Gernika during the Spanish Civil War, an event that had a great impact on the town and its inhabitants. In addition, they discovered why Gernika is still an important symbol for the Basque people today. This experience l allowed the Italian students to earn more about local history, understand the value of peace and reflect on the importance of historical memory in preserving the past and remembering the victims of conflict.

On Thursday, the Italian students  discoverex the natural, cultural and historical heritage of the Basque Country. They visited the beautiful Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve and explore Mundaka, learning about its coastal landscapes, fishing traditions and local culture. Afterwards, they  visited  the Assembly House of Gernika and the famous Tree of Gernika, discovering the importance of Basque identity, self-government and historical memory. This day ws aa valuable opportunity to learn outside the classroom, appreciate the region’s heritage and understand the importance of protecting nature and remembering the past.

On Friday, 16th October, the Italian students visited Bilbao, one of the most important cities in the Basque Country. They discovered its history, culture and modern atmosphere while exploring some of its most famous places.  During the visit, the students  learnt more about the city and its importance in Basque society. They also discoveref how Bilbao has transformed over the years, becoming an important cultural and economic centre. This visit  allowed them to appreciate the city’s architecture, traditions and lively atmosphere while learning more about life in the Basque Country.

During the day, the students  took  part in a cultural treasure hunt around different places of interest in Bilbao. Working in teams, they  followed  clues, answered questions and completed challenges related to the city’s history, architecture and traditions. This activity  encouraged cooperation, communication and teamwork while allowing them to discover the city in an interactive and enjoyable way.. They finished the day shopping anx buying souvenirs 

The students also had the opportunity to admire some of Bilbao’s most famous landmarks and discovered how the city has changed over time. From its historic streets and traditional buildings to its modern architecture, they saw how Bilbao has developed from an industrial city into an important cultural and tourist destination. They  also learnt about the role of the Nervión River in the city’s history and development.

This visit wa a a valuable opportunity for the Italian students to learn about Basque culture, history and identity outside the classroom. Through the cultural treasure hunt, they improved  their knowledge of the city while sharing experiences with their classmates and teachers. The day  also promoted cultural exchange, friendship and cooperation, helping them create unforgettable memories during their stay in the Basque Country.

During their stay in the Basque Country, the Italian students  lived with their Basque host families, allowing them to experience local culture and everyday life firsthand. They shared meals, conversations and family activities, discovering Basque traditions, customs and gastronomy. This experience  helped them understand how local families live and gave them the opportunity to practise their language skills in a natural environment.

Living with Basque  host families also encouraged cultural exchange and strengthened the bonds between Italian and Basque students. By spending time together, they learnt to appreciate their cultural differences and similarities while developing values such as respect, tolerance and cooperation. The host families  played  an essential role in making the Italian students feel welcome and comfortable, helping them create unforgettable memories and meaningful friendships that may last long after the exchange has ended.

On Monday, 19th October, the Italian students visited Getxo, a beautiful coastal town in the Basque Country. They took part in an interactive activity by following QR codes placed at different points around the town. By scanning them, they discovered the history of the places they visited and learned about their cultural heritage. This activity allowed them to explore Getxo in an enjoyable and educational way.

Afterwards, they visited  the Bizkaia Bridge, also known as the Hanging Bridge of Portugalete, an impressive structure that connects Getxo and Portugalete across the Nervión River. Built in 1893, it is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its historical and technological importance. The students learnt  how the bridge works and discovered  how it has helped people and goods cross the river for more than a century.

This visit ws aa valuable opportunity for the Italian students to explore the industrial heritage and engineering achievements of the Basque Country. By discovering the bridge and its surroundings, they  understood  how innovation has influenced the development of the region. The experience  also encouraged them to reflect on the importance of preserving historical monuments and cultural heritage.

The visit to Getxo was a valuable learning experience for the Italian students, combining culture, history and technology. Through the QR code activity, they discovered the town in an interactive way and gained a better understanding of Basque heritage. This experience also encouraged their curiosity and helped them appreciate the importance of preserving local history and traditions.