In the rich tapestry of Basque mythology, the Jentils(or jentillak, meaning “gentiles” or “giants”) are legendary beings—giant, pagan people who once roamed the mountains of the Basque Country before the arrival of Christianity.

These mythical figures represent the pre-Christian past, and their lore offers a fascinating glimpse into how ancient beliefs transitioned into modern traditions, especially those surrounding Christmas.

Who Were the Jentils?

The Jentils were described as colossal beings with immense strength, capable of throwing rocks across valleys and building dolmens (megalithic tombs). They lived in the rugged mountains, were skilled in metalwork and astronomy, and were said to have invented the sickle.According to legend, they vanished or were buried in the earth with the arrival of Christianity—specifically, when a bright star appeared in the sky announcing the birth of Jesus. This celestial event caused the Jentils to retreat, symbolizing the end of paganism and the dawn of a new fait

Connection to Christmas

The link between the Jentils and Christmas is most clearly seen in the figure of Olentzero, a beloved Basque Christmas character who originated as a Jentil. Olentzero is depicted as a large, pipe-smoking man dressed in traditional Basque clothing. He descends from the mountains on Christmas Eve to bring gifts to children, much like Santa Claus or Saint Nicholas in other cultures.In earlier versions of the myth, Olentzero was the last surviving Jentil, left behind to witness the birth of Christ. Over time, he was transformed from a symbol of a fading pagan world into a benevolent Christmas figure—a cultural fusion that allowed the old myths to survive in a Christianized context.

From Pagan Giants to Christmas Joy

Today, Olentzero parades are held in Basque towns during the Christmas season, blending ancient lore with festive cheer. Children sing songs, light bonfires, and welcome this mythical figure who once belonged to a forgotten race of giants. The Jentils, through Olentzero, have been reborn as guardians of joy and tradition, bridging the gap between the ancient and the modern, the pagan and the Christian.