Puente la Reina

Puente la Reina was founded in the 12th century to populate the regions surrounding the pilgrimage route Camino de Santiago. A walk through this village takes the walker back to the Middle Ages.

Roman bridge

If anything characterizes Puente la Reina, it is the famous Romanesque bridge over the Arga River, on the outside of the village. According to tradition, Puente la Reina owes its name to this 110 meter long bridge. In Spanish it means Puente la Reina Queen's Bridge. Legend has it that this bridge was built in the 11th century by an anonymous queen, with the aim of facilitating the departure of pilgrims from the village.

Calle Mayor

Due to the important location of this town during the Middle Ages and its importance in the Camino de Santiago , the town was protected by high walls. Two towers are still visible, marking the entrance to Calle Mayor (the main street). Several architectural gems were also built that can still be visited in this street today. There are three churches: the Crucifijo Church and the Santiago Church (12th century), and the San Pedro Church (14th century).

In addition to these churches, there is also the Convento de Trinitarios, a monastery from the 13th century. There is also the beautiful square Julian Mena, where the town hall is located in the building Casa de los Cubiertos from the 17th century. The latter building has a beautiful colonnade with 13 semicircular arches, which used to serve as a location for the market.

Santa Maria de Eunate

In the past there were also important military orders present that were responsible for the protection of pilgrims who Camino de Santiago walked. One of these orders was one of the most famous, the Knights Templar. They had their main temple a few kilometers from Puente la Reina. This was the temple of Santa Maria de Eunate.

The name Eunate (in Basque for “a hundred doors”) refers to the many arches of this octagonal Romanesque monastery. This monastery was built between the mid-12th and early 13th centuries. Its origins are still not entirely clear today. However, this temple shows few similarities with the usual Romanesque style.

The theory that has received the most attention about the origins of this temple is that it was built as a pilgrim hospital. This was built on behalf of Sancho VI, called the Wise, at the request of his wife. Her remains were found in the monastery.

Eunate's ritual

In Eunate there is still a ritual where every pilgrim who arrives must walk around the church three times before going to the center. They do this to absorb the energy of this place. Eunate is known as a special place with special power and meaning.

According to legend, the church radiates a special one spiritual energy out. This is due to its octagonal shape and location at the crossroads of several pilgrim paths, Pilgrims who Camino de Santiago walkers often perform this ritual. They believe that it gives them spiritual strength and helps them during their pilgrimage.

The octagonal design of the church has symbolic meanings dating back to the time of the Knights Templar. Some believe it is a place of reconciliation and spiritual healing. Pilgrims come to this place to feel this energy and use the power of the place for their further journey.

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Recommended accommodations near Puente la Reina

Puente la Reina offers various accommodations for both pilgrims who Camino de Santiago walking, as well as for travelers who want to visit the village.

The first accommodation we recommend is Albergue Puente para Peregrinos. This is a simple hostel, especially for pilgrims. It offers shared rooms and is a very economical choice for those looking for an affordable place to sleep during the pilgrimage.

Another option is Albergue Jakue, where pilgrims can choose between a shared room or a private room. This is a popular place for pilgrims to stay overnight, and it offers comfortable facilities for a good night's sleep.

Finally, there is Hotel Jakue, which is located in the same location as Albergue Jakue, but is a bit more luxurious. This hotel is ideal for people who prefer to sleep in a hotel with more privacy and extra comfort.

Albergue Puente para Peregrinos (€)

Albergue Jakue (€)

Hotel Jakue (€€)

Recommended restaurants near Puente la Reina

If you are in Puente la Reina and you like good meat, then Asador El Fogón de Etayo highly recommended. This is a beautiful and quiet restaurant with history. The dishes are delicious and at a very fair price.

In addition, one of the best restaurants in Puente la Reina is also the Vineyard Ganbara, perfect for eating delicious Navarrese dishes accompanied by a nice glass of wine.