28 July - 11 August (2026 dates to be confirmed)
Mendigorria International Music Festival
Mendigorria
What to see and do in the towns of Ujué, Artajona and Obanos
Here are the best routes and activities to be immersed in the rich medieval history of Central Navarre. Visit the picturesque medieval charter towns of Ujué/Uxue, Artajona and Obanos for an unforgettable weekend.
Ujué /Uxue, one of the ten Wonders of Navarre
Start your weekend in Navarre in Ujué/Uxue, a charming medieval town recognised as one of the most beautiful towns in Spain.
Marvel at the views from this town that perches on the top of the Sierra de Ujué/Uxue mountains. Every day here is a visual spectacle. On the clearest days, you can make out the Pyrenees, the silhouette of the Moncayo Range and the desert landscape of the Bardenas Reales badlands.
Historical heritage of the town
Let yourself be charmed by Ujué/Uxue’s old quarter. Set off to explore on foot. Don’t rely on a map and discover the town’s squares, slopes and delightful spots guided by the pure pleasure of the landscape and time. Then, look for the striking Fortress Church of Santa María de Ujué/Uxue, a marvel which still has secrets to be discovered.
This sanctuary, declared a National Monument, is steeped in history and mystery. Enjoy stunning views from the lookout point and admire every detail of one of the most elaborate Gothic façades in Navarre. In the surrounding area, you can discover places steeped in history, such as the parish house, El Castillazo, an old well and the iconic image of the Virgin of Ujué.
If you are left wanting more, you can explore the surroundings of the village:
- If you venture out for a walk among the vineyards, check out our recommended routes.
- Visita las ruinas de la ermita de San Miguel en la cara norte del pueblo: aunque no tiene bóveda sigue siendo espectacular
- As you leave the town, stop at the Saludo Cross and enjoy the stunning view of Ujué/Uxue from there: a real photo opportunity. If you go along the NA53-11 road towards Murillo el Fruto for 8 kilometres, you will come to the Shrine Chapel of the Virgen Blanca, a medieval building in a mix of Romanesque and Gothic styles. The people living in La Blanca hamlet, and from another twenty or so places, sought refuge in Ujué/Uxue centuries ago.
Artajona, the Middle Ages in their purest form
Medieval streets, mysterious legends and prehistoric culture. Artajona has kept its traditional spirit alive. Come and explore this magical town in the heart of Central Navarre, which has stood watch over the centuries and boasts an unrivalled heritage.
Explore the Cerco de Artajona, the largest medieval walled enclosure in Navarre.
Visit the highest part of Artajona, where you will find its famous Cerco, a spectacular wall that has preserved nine imposing medieval towers intact and makes up one of the most important medieval fortifications in the area.
It really looks as if it is straight out of a film and in fact, several scenes of Robin and Marian with Sean Connery and Audrey Hepburn were shot there. Hollywood fell head over heels with the beautiful spot and yet you still haven’t been?
Entering through any of the gateways of the medieval walled complex is a magical moment. At the heart of this site stands the majestic Church of San Saturnino, with magnificent views. Artajona’s medieval walls were a look-out point, and from there you can enjoy panoramic views of the town’s architecture , yet what is truly breathtaking is to wander through it and imagine everything those cobble streets have witnessed.
What’s more, this incredible walled complex hides other medieval gems that you are sure to notice: listen to the only bells in the world that swing the other way round and learn about the culture of bell ringing; take a close look at the delicate polychromy of the main altarpiece of the Cerco, housed in the presbytery of the church; and feel like a true member of the medieval court in the keep.
Much of the enclosure is free to enter. However, there are various guided tours available within the Cerco de Artajona.
There are two types: guided tours with a local guide or self-guided visits, which include virtual reality goggles which will whisk you back to the Artajona of centuries ago, thanks to historical re-enactments. For more information about the tours, call 640089167 or write to this email, or visit the town’s website.
And that is not all: if you can’t get the Middle Ages out of your mind and want an adventure in Artajona, then Escape Street is for you. This free game that you can play using your mobile phone will take you to all the town’s hidden nooks and crannies on a mission against the clock in under two hours. Work out the 16 clues with your family, your gang of friends or the best way for you.
Culture and history outside the walls of Artajona
Artajona is much more than its walled town: round off your time here by visiting its most important monuments its medieval walls:
- Take a look at the basilica and the Shrine Chapel of Nuestra Señora de Jerusalén and the Parish Church of San Pedro, in the lower part of the town known as Rabal.
- Travel back to prehistoric times with a tour of the dolmens of Artajona, one of the most important examples of megalithic architecture in Navarre. If you are interested in this important remnant from the Bronze Age, find out full details here.
- Take a tasty souvenir home! If you have seen the Baztán Triology by Dolores Redondo, you will have heard of txantxigorri. Well, it turns out this dessert is typical of Central Navarre! And the version in Artajona is homemade, fluffy, tastes of cinnamon and it will always be your choice for dessert.
The Historical Encounters that are held in summer are another event not to miss. Immerse yourself in medieval culture at this festival, which has been declared a Festival of Tourist Interest.
Obanos: the cradle of Navarrese history and heritage
Discover Obanos, a charming town in the region of Puente la Reina. You will be captivated by its imposing and stately character, the result of its noble and defensive past that still lingers in its streets and buildings.
Wander along the streets that retain their medieval charm, a legacy that lives on in its brick houses, such as the iconic the Muzquiz House and Zabalegui House. What’s more, the Way of St. James passes through the town from Jaca.
What historical monuments are there to visit in Obanos?
The town is full of magical spots that retain the essence of the Middle Ages. Explore all of its streets and alleys and drink in the history of this beautiful town. The most important monuments in Obanos include its welcoming squares, its arch with a coat of arms, and its imposing churches and hermitages:
- Enjoy the town’s main squares: Plaza de los Fueros and Plaza de San Guillermo.
- Step back and admire the colourful stained glass windows and neo-Gothic style windows of the Church of San Juan Bautista. Then take a closer look at the Obanos Gateway, an interesting semi-circular arch with a coat of arms located next to the church. Everyone takes a photo here, and that’s no surprise.
- Visit the shrine chapels of Obanos: the Shrine Chapel of San Salvador, with its incredible sculptures, the Shrine Chapel of San Lorenzo, which was once inhabited by Franciscan monks, and the Shrine Chapel of Nuestra Señora de Arnotegui, which has spectacular views of the beautiful Valdizarbe valley.
Learn about the legend of The Mystery Play of Obanos.
Learn about the magic of the Mystery Play of Obanos, a fascinating legend that is part of the soul of the Way of St. James. Every two years, this mysterious tale comes to life in the town, in a unique experience which has been declared a Festival of National Tourist Interest. This is a must-see event.
Find out more about this beautiful town on its official website.
