These historic buildings can be fortified residences or stately mansions dating from different periods and architectural styles. 

 

Tower houses had a defensive function and were used as a refuge in times of conflict and danger.

 

They are easy to distinguish.  They are characterised as fortified multi-storey buildings with a central tower rising above the rest of the building.  They often have defensive elements such as battlements, arrow slits (narrow openings for firing) and machicolations (cantilevered structures that allow projectiles to be launched downwards).

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Look for beautiful exponents in Zurbano, Gopegi, Zárate, Markina, Olano, Letona, Murua, Manurga and Murgia.

 

Don't miss the following:

 

• Palace of Elorriaga: It is a stately mansion in neoclassical style built in the 18th century located in Elorriaga, near Zeanuri.

 

• Saratxo Tower House: Located in the municipality of Zeanuri, it is a medieval tower house that has been restored and preserved as historical heritage.

 

• Erdikoetxe Palace: An 18th century palace built in the Baroque style located in the municipality of Legutio.

The Ethnographic Museum of Orozko in the Legorburu palace house is an ideal place to learn about the historical heritage of the valley, traditional life and the inhabitants of the Gorbeia highlands.