The best walks and hikes around Artazu

At the general audience on June 21, 2006, the then Holy Father briefly summarized two biblically recorded events that describe the special position of James the Greater, the patron saint of this church, among the disciples: + "He was privileged, along with Peter and John, to participate in the hour of Jesus' agony in the Garden of Gethsemane and in the event of Jesus' Transfiguration. (...) In the first instance, James, together with the other two apostles, experiences the glory of the Lord; he sees him speaking with Moses and Elijah; he sees the splendor of divine glory shining in Jesus; in the other instance, he faces suffering and humiliation; he sees with his own eyes how the Son of God humbles himself and is obedient to the point of death. The second experience was certainly an opportunity for him to mature in faith and to correct the one-sided, triumphalist interpretation of the first experience: He had to recognize that the Messiah, awaited by the Jewish people as a triumphant leader, was in reality not only full of honor and glory. surrounded not only by suffering, but also by suffering and weakness. The glory of Christ is realized precisely on the cross, in sharing in our sufferings." (Pope Benedict XVI)

The Punte la Reina Bridge (Queen's Bridge) was built in the 11th century to facilitate pilgrims' crossing of the river. The Aragonese and Navarrese branches of the Way of St. James converge at Puente la Reina; the common route crosses the Arga River over the bridge of the same name.

Santa María de Eunate is a Romanesque church on the Aragonese branch of the Way of St. James in Navarre. The church was built at the end of the 12th century in the Romanesque style with Mozarabic influences. The octagonal design is a reference to the Templars. There used to be a hospice here that belonged to the Order of St. John and today it is a hostel for pilgrims.

Nice place to stay overnight, you can walk straight from the path onto the terrace where you can order a drink.

The Church of Santiago in Puente la Reina, also known as the Church of Santiago el Mayor, is a historical and architectural gem. This parish church originally dates back to the 12th century, but most of what you see today dates back to the 16th century after extensive reconstruction. One of its most striking features is the late Romanesque entrance, which was preserved during later renovations. Inside you will find a special statue, known as the Black Santiago.

The Iglesia del Crucifijo in Puente la Reina is a fascinating historical monument deeply rooted in the history of the Camino de Santiago. Originally built in the 12th century by the Knights Templar, the church was later taken over by the Order of St. John of Jerusalem. The church consists of two different naves: a Romanesque one from the 12th century and a Gothic one that was added later. What makes this church really special is the impressive Gothic crucifix in the shape of a “Y”, one of the most remarkable Gothic sculptures in Spain.

The Church of San Juan Bautista in Obanos, located in the Plaza de los Fueros, is a beautiful example of neo-Gothic architecture. Built in 1912, this church exudes an impressive historical charm. The church’s façade features a portico and a square tower, which contribute to the building’s majestic appearance. Inside, the church exudes a serene and sacred atmosphere, with beautiful stained glass windows and detailed decorations that reflect the church’s rich history.

A small, tough climb. Anyone who walks to Santiago will encounter even more strenuous climbs.