The best traffic-free bike rides around Uterga

At the general audience on June 21, 2006, the then Holy Father briefly summarized two biblically recorded events that describe the special position of James the Greater, the patron saint of this church, among the disciples: + "He was privileged, along with Peter and John, to participate in the hour of Jesus' agony in the Garden of Gethsemane and in the event of Jesus' Transfiguration. (...) In the first instance, James, together with the other two apostles, experiences the glory of the Lord; he sees him speaking with Moses and Elijah; he sees the splendor of divine glory shining in Jesus; in the other instance, he faces suffering and humiliation; he sees with his own eyes how the Son of God humbles himself and is obedient to the point of death. The second experience was certainly an opportunity for him to mature in faith and to correct the one-sided, triumphalist interpretation of the first experience: He had to recognize that the Messiah, awaited by the Jewish people as a triumphant leader, was in reality not only full of honor and glory. surrounded not only by suffering, but also by suffering and weakness. The glory of Christ is realized precisely on the cross, in sharing in our sufferings." (Pope Benedict XVI)

The Church of Santiago in Puente la Reina, also known as the Church of Santiago el Mayor, is a historical and architectural gem. This parish church originally dates back to the 12th century, but most of what you see today dates back to the 16th century after extensive reconstruction. One of its most striking features is the late Romanesque entrance, which was preserved during later renovations. Inside you will find a special statue, known as the Black Santiago.

The Iglesia del Crucifijo in Puente la Reina is a fascinating historical monument deeply rooted in the history of the Camino de Santiago. Originally built in the 12th century by the Knights Templar, the church was later taken over by the Order of St. John of Jerusalem. The church consists of two different naves: a Romanesque one from the 12th century and a Gothic one that was added later. What makes this church really special is the impressive Gothic crucifix in the shape of a “Y”, one of the most remarkable Gothic sculptures in Spain.

The Church of San Juan Bautista in Obanos, located in the Plaza de los Fueros, is a beautiful example of neo-Gothic architecture. Built in 1912, this church exudes an impressive historical charm. The church’s façade features a portico and a square tower, which contribute to the building’s majestic appearance. Inside, the church exudes a serene and sacred atmosphere, with beautiful stained glass windows and detailed decorations that reflect the church’s rich history.

This is the complete opposite of the Chapel of the Cross: here the theme is splendor and glorification. Almost too much gold, pomp...

This room allows every pilgrim to write down intercessions and prayers to place at the Jesus statue or write them in the prayer book. A simple, beautiful room that has preserved much of the old spirituality. Pilgrim station.

Fields, fields, fields, mountains....The horizon moves away and the path becomes lonely.....

Here you get an impression of the vastness: fantastic views, merciless climb, Pamplona behind you and a good 700 km ahead of you....