Centuries of history come to life in every cobbled corner of Estellaa medieval city located in the Foral Community of Navarra. Join us as we explore the architectural treasures, labyrinthine streets and the emblematic places that have made this place an essential stop for pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago.

Get ready for an unforgettable stop full of discoveries, panoramic views and moments that will transport you to bygone eras. Estella awaits you with open arms, ready to reveal her secrets at every step. Thinking about contacting an organizing agency for the Camino de Santiago? Keep reading, this town has a lot to offer you.

Exploring Estella: a medieval treasure on the Camino de Santiago

Located in the charming region of Navarra, Estella is a historic gem founded in 1090 by King Sancho Ramírez about the old Basque town of Lizarra. Surrounded by a picturesque landscape, its streets follow a medieval layout, they wind between cliffs and are accompanied by the sinuous Ega River.

This city, embellished with churches, fortifications, bridges and palaces, stands as main stop on the Camino de Santiago. Yes, it offers visitors an extensive heritage in a compact core.

The medieval origin of Estella It is intertwined with the history of the Camino de Santiago, which makes it an essential stop and is not missing in any guide to the French Camino de Santiago. Its cobblestone streets recount centuries of travel, devotion and culture. It is located halfway between Pamplona and Logroño, in a region that serves as a transition between the Mountains and the Riverside.

Plaza de los Fueros in Estella

The must-see places in Estella

  • Church of the Holy Sepulcher: Begin the tour of this unfinished church, a testimony of Navarrese Gothic with an impressive doorway. Its location next to the river and on the outskirts of the main center adds charm to this historic site.
  • Santo Domingo Convent: Near the Holy Sepulcher, this monumental Gothic convent, although abandoned, presents an imposing structure with walls and buttresses that tell stories of times past.
  • prison bridge: Following the Camino de Santiago, we find this emblematic peaked bridge, a faithful reconstruction that offers a traditional view of the city, with the church of San Miguel as a backdrop.
  • Church of San Miguel: It is a fortress built on “La Mota”. This church stands out for its Romanesque-style north door and its strategic position in the defense of the city.
  • Palace of the Kings of Navarra: In the Plaza de San Martín, this Gothic palace is an outstanding example of the civil architecture of Navarra and houses the art collection of the Gustavo de Maeztu Museum.
  • Saint Peter of the Rua: Considered the main monument of Estella, this church offers an impressive staircase that leads to a cliff from which the city is overlooked. Its 13th century portico and cloister are true architectural jewels.
  • Cross of the Main Castle: On the Cerro de la Cruz, we imagine the fortified Estella of the Middle Ages. The panoramic view from this point offers a unique perspective of the city.
  • Estella Palacial: As you stroll through the streets, admire architectural examples of nobility, such as the Eguía Palace, the House of Fray Diego, the House of the Ruiz de Alda and the City Hall building.
  • Carlism Museum: For history lovers, this museum in the old Governor’s Palace offers an immersion in the turbulent Carlist era, with an educational and entertaining exhibition.
  • Llanos Park: It is a green haven on the Camino de Santiago, it offers serenity and encounters. Icon for pilgrims, the Bar La Hormiga stands out and picturesque views from the Puente del Azucarero.
  • The main street: It is the epicenter of local life in Estella. Discover traditional shops: from organic food to the famous Hermenegildo Elcano wine and liquor store.

Estella Bridge

Advice for pilgrims and visitors

To finish, we will give you some tips for a more satisfactory stop in Estella

  • Comfortable shoes: Cobblestone streets and church steps can be challenging, so be sure to bring Comfortable shoes and to which you are already accustomed.
  • road map: If you are following the Camino de Santiago, have a map on hand that highlights the landmarks in Estella for easy orientation. It is a reliable and safe way that will work even if your phone runs out of battery.
  • Visiting hours: Check the opening hours of historical sites and museums to make the most of your visit.
  • Local gastronomy: Try local cuisine in the bars and restaurants of Plaza de los Fueros. The typical products, such as the region’s wine, are not to be missed.
  • Respect in religious places: If you visit churches, respect the religious atmosphere and follow the dress regulations if there are any.
  • Water and sun protection: Bring enough water and sun protection, especially in the warmer months, to stay hydrated and protected from the sun.
  • Share experiences: Join other pilgrims on the route, share experiences and make new friends during your trip.
  • Flexibility in planning: Be flexible in your planning and allow yourself to enjoy the unexpected places Estella has to offer. 

 

Do not dismiss other routes to Compostela

The fact that the french route It is the most popular among pilgrims, in part it is because many pilgrims choose their last leg, that is, they make the French Camino de Santiago de Compostela trip from Sarria organized. From that town, just over 100 km from the capital of Compostela, the pilgrimage can be done in about a week.

And for the most daring, three Jacobean routes that are worth knowing and, why not? plan to do sometime. 

With these tips you will be prepared to discover every corner of a city that is part of the essence of the Camino de Santiago. Have a good trip!