WHAT TO SEE
1st Stage: From Roncesvalles to Zubiri
The pilgrimage to the Cathedral of Compostela can be started from any of the villages along the Santigo Route since it is not necessary to go through every stage of it.
But if you want to make the pilgrimage from beginning to end, you will have to start in Roncesvalles and cover 31 stages. The 1st stage takes the pilgrim from the mythical Roncesvalles to Zubiri.
It was in Roncesvalles that a battle took place among the Basque people and the Carlomagno troops, back in 778. When the troops tried to cross the Pyrenees on his way back to France, the mythical Roldan died.
Before leaving this beautiful village, pilgrims can enjoy a visit to the Gothic Church of Santa Maria, with its flight of steps, and the Romanesque Chapel of the Sancti Spiritus, used in the past as a tomb for pilgrims. Another important monument is the Church of Santiago, which dates back to the 13th century.
During this 1st stage of the Route, travellers can stop at one of the best transepts of the French Route (14th century) and then in Bruguete, where they will be able to set foot on a pilgrim street-road. El Espinal is the next stop on the route. This city was founded by Teobaldo II before he set off for Tunez, where he was to take part in the Crusade organized by Saint Luis of France.
The route reaches the top of Menquiziz, where San Cristobal, a 16th-century Church, is located, with its neoclassical altarpiece of the 19th century. Then it takes you to Viscarret, the final stop on the Route, according to the Calixtus codex. Upon leaving this village, you will arrive in Linzoain and then, Erro.
Legend states that in Erro there is a menhir lying down, of approximately 2 meters, which corresponds to the length of one of Roldan´s steps. Finally, pilgrims arrive in Zubiri, the final stop of the 1st day of the journey, where once a leprosarium-hospital arose, and where the "Puente de la Rabia" can still be found.