Believe it or not, some competitive sports in Basque country use tree logs, heavy stones, and rope to prove speed, accuracy, strength, and endurance. These rural sports, called Herri Kirolak in the Basque language, are rooted in the farming and fishing industries. Pilota is another sport that is played throughout Basque country and around the world. Rural sports and pilota have become so popular that they are now a vital part of Basque culture and identity. No Basque cultural festival is complete without these sports competitions.
Aizkolaritza (Wood Chopping)
Wood-chopping competitions are among the most popular of Basque sports. The sport began hundreds of years ago when workers needed wood to build ships and make charcoal; contests were held to establish the strongest and fastest woodchoppers. The woodchoppers, or aizkolaris,…