The medieval village in the heart of Navarre, through which the Camino de Santiago passes, and with a thousand-year-old bridge

The various branches of the Camino de Santiago wind through countless beautiful towns and villages, for whom the pilgrimage route is their main attraction. The most famous route is the French Way, which passes through captivating towns and villages in both Spain and France, though few can compare with the magnificence and historical significance of Puente la Reina, located in the heart of Navarre and one of the best rural tourism destinations in northern Spain.

With just under 3,000 inhabitants, this Navarrese town has been one of the most important in the entire region for almost a millennium. Located On the banks of the Arga River, its charming streets still exude a medieval spirit, thanks to both its incredible architectural heritage and the influence of the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela. Therefore, whether you're traveling the route or not, a stop in this captivating town is an experience not to be missed.

Puente la Reina, the gateway to the Camino in Spain

The origins of this town date back to the mid-11th century, when Queen Mayor ordered the construction of a bridge over the Arga River. At the site where the town now stands, two routes of the Camino de Santiago converge: the Aragonese Way via Roncesvalles and the Navarrese Way via Somport. This structure was built in the Romanesque style and is a listed Historical Monument, so important that it even lends its name to the town.

In the town's historic center, in addition to this 110-meter-long bridge supported by seven semicircular arches, one can also find other priceless treasures such as the Church of Santiago El Mayor, which dates back to the 12th century. However, the church was remodeled in the 16th century, abandoning its Romanesque style and incorporating numerous Gothic elements. Likewise, the Church of the Crucifix (12th century) and the Church of San Pedro (16th century) also form part of the municipality's religious heritage.

It's also essential to visit the Convent of the Comendadoras de Sancti Spiritus, as well as the remaining fragments of the medieval wall that protected the town centuries ago. Furthermore, strolling through the streets of Puente la Reina will reveal hidden treasures like the Heritage Palace, so don't worry about getting lost in the town's maze of streets; this way you can uncover all its secrets.

The municipality of Puente la Reina is located less than half an hour from the city of Pamplona. To get there from the capital of Navarre, you simply need to follow the A-12 for most of the journey; once you reach the town center, turn off onto the NA-1110 to arrive.