The archaeological site of the Oiasso Roman baths celebrated its first anniversary since opening to the public, after nearly two decades of anticipation. The renovation was made possible through Next Generation European funds. The remains of the baths were discovered in 1996 and were the primary reason for establishing the Roman museum at its current location.
Over these twelve months, the Oiasso Museum has welcomed a total of 40,204 visitors. This figure includes those who explored the permanent exhibition and those who participated in the extensive cultural program, featuring events such as the Dies Oiassonis festival, FICAB, and other activities designed to connect directly with the local Roman heritage.
The permanent exhibition alone recorded 21,149 visits, the highest figure in a single year, highlighting the growing interest in the Roman baths and their ability to attract audiences of all ages and origins. Among the visitors, 11,832 were from Irun, with a similar number from the rest of Gipuzkoa. Including visitors from the rest of the Basque Country and Navarre, these groups account for three out of every four visitors, leaving a significant percentage for other origins.
“"The Roman baths have provided a remarkable opportunity for many residents of Irun to reconnect with the Oiasso Museum and revisit it. For those who were not yet familiar with it, they have served as an incentive to approach and discover it. But their impact has not been limited to the local sphere, to the citizens of Irun. They have also contributed to attracting visitors from other parts of the territory and beyond, who have traveled to Irun to learn firsthand about the city's Roman past and historical heritage."
According to Nuria Alzaga, Culture Delegate, the excellent results of this first year of activity at the baths “confirm that heritage drives visitor attraction.” Irun has demonstrated the success of valuing its heritage elements and integrating them into its tourism offerings. In this vein, the upcoming opening of the Irugurutzeta furnaces will mark a new step in continuing to promote the city's cultural and tourism offerings based on its rich heritage.
