Cultural tourism in Navarre

The Castle of Javier receives thousands of visitors every year, not only for its artistic value but also because it was the birthplace, in 1506, of Saint Francis Xavier, Patron Saint of Navarre and the Missions. That’s also why there’s a popular pilgrimage to the castle every year, known as Javierada, in which thousands of Navarros walk tens of kilometres to honour the saint.

This medieval fortress, whose origins date back to the end of the 10th century, has got everything: towers, dungeons, machicolations, embrasures and even a drawbridge. And inside you can enjoy dioramas describing key scenes from the life of the saint, a museum telling the history of the castle and the village, and an interesting picture gallery.

The sobriety of the cathedral's Neoclassical façade contrasts with its Gothic interior, the central nave of which houses the beautiful alabaster tomb of Charles III of Navarre and his wife, Eleanor of Castile.

But the cathedral's real gem is its cloister, which is accessed through two beautiful doors. It’s widely considered one of the most exquisite exponents of Gothic architecture in the world, making it a must for visitors. 

The best thing to do is to get a guided tour and, if you can, go up the bell tower; the views over the rooftops of the old town are well worth the climb.

A Site of Cultural Interest, this Gothic cathedral has three impressive doorways, the best known of which is called the Portada del Juicio (Doorway of the Last Judgement).

Its Romanesque cloister is one of its hidden treasures, and you should grab the chance to explore it.

If you like city walls, don't miss this place.

These walls are in Navarre’s Central Zone and have no fewer than nine defensive towers.

They’ll take your breath away.

You'll have to drive, cycle or walk up to the overlook where the sanctuary stands, at more than 1,200 metres above sea level.

Once there, you’ll find yourself standing before over a thousand years of history in the form of a somewhat austere building, but one in which the Romanesque Altarpiece of Aralar makes coming all this way well worth going to the trouble.

The city walls of Pamplona have enveloped the old town since the 16th century and are practically intact.

Don't miss them, because they are also a Site of Cultural Interest which can be enjoyed taking a pleasant walk — of up to 5 kilometres — with wonderful views.