Euskara, the Basque language

Euskal Herria, the Basque Country, is above all the “the Country of the Basque language”. This age-old language is one of the oldest languages in Europe, and its origin is still somewhat mysterious. It forms the basis of the identity of this territory and implies a certain vision of the world. Indeed, the names of places, the ways of inhabiting the space and the social relationships here can only be understood in the light of this linguistic heritage. The Euskara language is taught in more than 60% of schools in the French Basque Country. In the Saint-Jean-de-Luz and Ciboure bay, two towns have ikastola, i.e. schools that offer an immersive learning experience in the Basque language as well as several bilingual learning experiences, from kindergarten through to the end of secondary school. Euskara, which is transmitted through generations and used in everyday life, contributes to the vitality of the singing, music and dancing.