Markina-Xemein keeps a tight connection with Basque pelota sport in fact its two walled court or frontón is known as 'University of the Pelota', since it is the place where great Basket or Jai Alai pelotaris learnt to play.
The high quality of the stone has gained international recognition it is one of the most important marbles from Spain. Extraction of black marble, known as Nero Marquina (Marmol Negro), also plays an important role in the local economy. The metal industry has in fact played an important role in the past, through the development of important weapons in the defense industry. The local economy is mostly based on the primary and secondary sectors, with particular relevance for agriculture and cattle herding, timber research and metal industry.
Coming from the Spanish word 'marca' meaning 'mark', Markina-Xemein marks the location where the Gipuzkoanos (the people of Guipuzcoa province) often battled the Bizkainos (the people of Biscay province). The last town in the province of Bizkaia, Markina-Xemein lies between Gipuzkoa and Bizkaia. The origin of the town's name lies in its geographic location. Markina-Xemein is a town and municipality located in the province of Biscay, Bizkaia, in the Basque Autonomous Community, also known as the Basque Country, located in northern Spain.
