WHAT TO SEE
5th Stage: From Estella to Los Arcos
Estella, commonly known as "the small Toledo", offers numerous Medieval precious gems: the Church of San Pedro de la Rúa, from the 12th century, which includes a beautiful Cloister where stands the capital made of twisted columns; the 12th-century Church of San Miguel, with its marvelous Late-Romanesque Façade; the Church of the Santo Sepulcro, built in the 12th century, which also contains a magnificent Romanesque Façade; the 12th century Church of San Juan Baustista; the Gothic-style Church of San Pedro de Lizarra; and the Palace of the Reyes, dating back to the 12th century.
After visiting this Medieval village, walkers begin their fifth day of the journey, which will take them, first to the municipality of Ayegui, where stands the Monastery of Irache. Its origins get lost into the Visigothic Age. Once, the architecture was the most ancient hospital for pilgrims who arrived in Navarra on their way to Santiago, and a University in the 17th and 18th century. In its interior there are Romanesque apses, ogival naves and a marvelous Renaissance Cloister.
Visitors to this beautiful sanctuary will be delighted to discover a fountain from where wine flows. But the Monastery is not the only monument worth viewing in this historic village. Pilgrims can also stop at the Parish Church of San Martín, from the 12th century, and taste the local wines at the Museum of Wine.
The Route progresses to Azqueta, where stands a Medieval fountain,, and to Villamayor de Monjardín with its 12th-century Church in memory to San Andrés. The wine cellars Castillo de Monjardín can be found here. Finally the journey passes through Urbiola before reaching Los Arcos, a village which extends along both sides of the Route. This is the final stop of the fifth day of the Santiago Route.