Navarra is a geographical and historical region located in the northern part of Spain. It is also an autonomous community with Pamplona as its capital city. Navarra is bordered by France to the northeast, Aragon to the east, La Rioja to the south, and the Basque Country to the west. The region covers an area of approximately 10,400 square kilometers and has a population of around 640,000 people.
Navarra has a diverse landscape, with the Pyrenees mountain range forming its northern border and the Ebro River crossing its southern region. It boasts a combination of beautiful mountains, fertile valleys, and picturesque towns. The economy of Navarra is primarily based on agriculture, industry, and services.
In addition to its natural beauty, Navarra is known for its rich history and cultural heritage. The region has been inhabited since ancient times and has been influenced by various civilizations, including the Celts, Romans, Visigoths, and Moors. Consequently, Navarra is home to numerous historical sites, such as medieval castles, ancient Roman ruins, and Gothic cathedrals.
Navarra is also renowned for its festive traditions, most notably the Running of the Bulls during the San Fermín festival in Pamplona. This internationally recognized event attracts thousands of visitors from around the world who run alongside the bulls in the narrow streets of the city.
Overall, Navarra is a diverse and culturally vibrant region that offers a mix of natural beauty, historical attractions, and lively festivities.
The word "Navarra" has its etymology rooted in the Basque language. "Naba" means "plain" or "valley" in Basque, while "ur" means "water". Thus, "Navarra" can be translated to "the valley of waters" or "the land of valleys". This reflects the geographical and topographical features of the region in northern Spain, which includes both flat land and valleys, intersected by various rivers and streams.