Dima represents a true reflection of traditional agriculture, cattle farming and shepherding in Bizkaia and, in turn, Artaun is one of the places which still mantains the natural landscape. In fact, as it borders on the Urkiola Natural Park, it has preserved a natural setting of great beauty, as well as elements and landscapes that take us back in time. The chapel, the bowling green, the village square, the farriery, the former schools, the architectural diversity of the farmhouses are an example of its value, which is further enhanced, if possible, by its views over the never-ending landscape from the Aramotz mountain range towards Gorbea.
Places such as the Baltzaola Caves, Jentilzubi or Axlor– in the nearby village of Indusi- prehistoric site of the Middle Paleolithic period, discovered by Father José Miguel de Barandiaran, and the many ancient paths show us that it is a place where humans have lived since time inmemorial.
In this priviledged natural space, ancestral traditions and customs are still very much alive thanks to the work and living memory of its elders. It is still possible to listen to them telling tales and mythological legends. Not in vain is it the cradle of Basque mythology, as reflected by Father Barandiaran in his research and in the gathering of many testimonials. The Balzola Caves are the central point around which all the myths of Witches, Lamias, Gentiles and Basajuan (figures from Basque mythology) revolve.
