The Camino de Santiago through La Rioja
The Camino de Santiago through La Rioja
La Rioja hosts three branches of the first European Cultural Itinerary within its small territory: the Camino de Santiago, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1993. These three routes converge in Logroño and include the Ignatian Way, the Jacobean Route of the Ebro, and the French Way, which we will discuss further.
The Camino de Santiago enters La Rioja by crossing the Ebro River, a natural border between Navarre and Castile, heading towards Logroño, the current capital of the Autonomous Community of La Rioja. This region is rich in history, culture, art, and excellent wine, such as its renowned red wines with Denomination of Origin, making the Camino de Santiago an experience not to be missed.
Logroño marks the end of the sixth stage of the French Way, which begins in Roncesvalles.
In Logroño, visitors can explore the Church of Santa María del Palacio and the Church of Santiago, notable for its Baroque image of the Apostle on its façade.
The journey continues to Navarrete, 14 km from Logroño, which retains its structure as a walled city. Just before arriving, one encounters the ruins of the Hospital of San Juan de Acre (12th century), an ancient pilgrim hospital.
Nájera, the third stop on the Camino de Santiago through La Rioja, is about 18 kilometres from Navarrete and boasts an impressive collection of monuments related to the Jacobean tradition. A must-visit is the Monastery of Santa María la Real, which was begun by order of King García Sánchez III "of Nájera" in 1052 and consecrated in 1056 as a defence against the Muslims in Calahorra.
The fourth and final stop on the Camino de Santiago through La Rioja is Santo Domingo de la Calzada. This city is linked to Saint Dominic and his construction works on the Roman road. The city grew and developed around the Pilgrims' Hospital founded by the saint in the second half of the 12th century, as well as a bridge over the Oja River to facilitate the passage of pilgrims.
A must-see is The Cathedral of Santo Domingo (a model of Proto-Gothic architecture). Inside, the most striking feature is the chicken coop, home to a rooster and a hen in memory of the miracle of the hanged pilgrim.
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