The Casa de Juntas in Gernika hosted today an institutional act to commemorate the 5th Centenary of the approval of Bizkaia's New Charter, a legal text from 1526 that serves as the historical foundation for Basque self-government. The event underscored the values of freedom, pactism, and identity inherent in this fundamental law, with the original book of the New Charter prominently displayed.
The main authorities of Euskadi attended the ceremony, led by Lehendakari Imanol Pradales Gil. They were joined by the Deputy General of Bizkaia, Elixabete Etxanobe Landajuela, and the President of the General Assemblies of Bizkaia, Ana Otadui Biteri, as well as the President of the Basque Parliament, Bakartxo Tejería Otermin, and a broad representation of political and institutional figures from the three historical territories.
Ana Otadui Biteri, President of the General Assemblies of Bizkaia, opened the event, emphasizing that the New Charter is the origin of many of the rights protected today. She stated it is an "early expression" approved 500 years ago that "radiates values associated with the Rule of Law," such as equality before the law, the defense of personal and property freedoms, and the recognition of women's rights.
The Deputy General of Bizkaia, Elixabete Etxanobe Landajuela, highlighted the enduring relevance of these principles, noting that the Charter "is our past and a fundamental part of our historical identity." She added that it expresses "the way in which the people of Bizkaia decided, half a millennium ago, to govern themselves" and is a "strictly current reality" that defines "our specific way of functioning today" and symbolizes the "uniqueness of our present self-government," citing tax management and social services as examples.
Lehendakari Imanol Pradales Gil emphasized that the 500th anniversary celebration is an opportunity to reaffirm the "full validity of the historical uniqueness of Basque self-government," highlighting the "spirit of pact, effective bilateralism, system of guarantees, and political, economic, and fiscal self-government." He also recalled the 125th anniversary of the abolition of the charters of Araba, Bizkaia, and Gipuzkoa, and the ongoing defense of Basque "inalienable historical rights" and "constituent capacity."
The event also featured artistic performances, including a dance by Nerea Vesga accompanied by flutist Iván Allue, and verses by Gabriel Ocina. Musical performances included violinist Aitzol Iturriagagoitia and guitarist Eugenio Tobalina, who performed "Caprice Basque, Op. 24" by Pablo Sarasate.
Following the indoor ceremony, authorities reaffirmed the motto "Izan zirelako gara" (Because they were, we are) and posed for a group photo by the Tree of Gernika. This event is part of a broader program of activities scheduled throughout 2026, aimed at bringing the significance of this anniversary closer to the public.
Bizkaia's New Charter was approved by the General Assemblies of Bizkaia in 1526 and confirmed by Emperor Charles I in 1527. It updated Bizkaian law, consolidating a unique self-government system based on customary uses and freedoms. This historical milestone, which remained largely in effect until the late 19th century, reflects the innovation of the foral institution and the construction of a society based on equality and institutional pacts.
