In the verdant valleys of the Basque Country, a legend persists that speaks to the ancient origins of its people. Nestled within the Pyrenees, the village of Isaba carries a story that ties the Basques to a land far beyond the mountains and the sea – Armenia.
According to local lore, the first inhabitants of Navarro, the province where Isaba is located, were Armenians. These settlers are said to be the ancestors of the Basque people, a claim that has intrigued both locals and scholars alike. The legend tells of a leader named Haitor, who journeyed from Armenia with his seven sons. In their honor, he established seven settlements across Navarro, laying the foundations for what would become the Basque Country.
The name Haitor itself is believed to hold significant meaning, translating to “arrived from Hai” or “originated from Hai,” which aligns with the Armenian term “Hai tor,” meaning “Armenian grandchild.” This linguistic connection suggests a deep-rooted link between the Basque and Armenian cultures, one that has been preserved in the collective memory of the Basque people.
The theory of Armenian origins is not a recent development; it has been a part of Basque consciousness for centuries, reflected in their written sources and traditions. Esteemed Basque writers such as Esteban de Garibai, Andres de Posa, Balthazar de Echave, and Gaspar Escolano have all echoed this sentiment, asserting the Armenian heritage of the Basque people.
While the legend of Isaba and the Armenian connection may seem like a tale from a bygone era, it continues to captivate the imagination and foster a sense of kinship between the Basques and Armenians. It is a testament to the enduring power of stories and their ability to bridge time and geography, uniting disparate cultures under a shared history.
As we delve into the past, we find that the roots of identity often stretch far and wide, intertwining the fates of nations and peoples. The Basque Country, with its rich history and vibrant culture, serves as a reminder of the complex tapestry that is human civilization. And perhaps, in the echoes of the name Haitor, we hear the whispers of a connection that spans continents, a legacy etched in stone and memory.
