The result of years of research, documentation, and work, the initiative has led not only to the restoration of the historic route but also to the publication of the children's literature book Peribideko istorio ezkutuak, which captures its intangible heritage. The presentation, held at the Barrena Palace, brought together the book's authors, students from Jakintza Ikastola, local officials, and residents. The publication was written by Larraitz Garmendia and Lide Lujanbio, with illustrations by Izaro Lizarraga.
The restoration of the Peribidea was carried out within the Erasmus+ project ‘Sustainable Entrepreneurship of Europe’, developed by Jakintza Ikastola in collaboration with educational institutions from France, the Czech Republic, and Norway. The project aimed to identify, analyze, and value the natural, historical, and cultural heritage of each country through international student cooperation.
During the project's presentation, Garmendia highlighted the significance of the Peribidea in the history of Goierri: «The Peribidea was not just one path, but an entire network of paths. It played a crucial role in connecting the farming areas with economic centers like Ordizia». Farmers used these routes to transport their produce to the market and acquire necessary resources for their daily lives.
Recognizing the historical value of this heritage, the promoters have restored the best-preserved section of the route and achieved its homologation within the network of Gipuzkoa's mountain paths. It will henceforth be identified as SL-66 Peribidea. During the inauguration event, participants walked 5.5 kilometers along the Peribidea, followed by the presentation of another key outcome in Ordizia: the book Peribideko istorio ezkutuak.
The narrative is based on the post-war rural environment and contemporary testimonies, featuring characters inspired by three sculptures in the streets of Ordizia: Goizane, Peru, and Mariane. According to Garmendia, the book's purpose extends beyond introducing the landscape or natural heritage. «Paths also hold people's stories; journeys, relationships, and the collective memory of a community. We aimed to convey this through the narrative».
The book is now available and can be purchased at the Jakintza Ikastola Day event next Friday, between 16:00 and 18:30, for twelve euros. Interested citizens can also reserve copies by contacting peribidea@jakintza.eus. The organizers have announced that it will also be available at the D’Elikatuz center and in various bookstores.
