The Shrine Chapel of Eunate, heritage on the Way of St. James

Discover Eunate, the mysterious chapel on the French Way of Saint James

 

The Romanesque gem of Santa María de Eunate lies along the French Way of St. James as it passes through the region of Central Navarre. Check out this mysterious shrine chapel, a place of pilgrimage and mysticism.

 

This national monument is considered to be an architectural marvel. Check out the beauty of Romanesque architecture and its unique octagonal design in ashlar stone. As you approach the unusual porticoed gallery, take a look at the amazing north door, which was exquisitely designed and covered with intricate details.

You cannot help but be enchanted by its mysticism and use of sacred geometry, representing resurrection, eternity and the connection between heaven and earth. Once inside, you will find the altar with the beautiful, smiling Virgin of Eunate. She is a silent witness to the history of this temple, known as one hundred doors.

Su historia está repleta de misticismo, comenzando porque no se sabe muy bien quién mandó construir el edificio, aunque se cuenta que fue una dama noble.

Faith and pilgrimage in Eunate

Eunate is a place of worship, contemplation and faith. It is currently home to the Brotherhood of Santa María de Eunate. You can attend mass and the main festival in honour of the Virgin of Eunate in this special place. You can feel the magic emanating from the symbols and take part in the rituals associated with the geodesic point where the shrine chapel is located. Walk around the church three times and then stand in the centre, the mystical telluric point, to receive the healing energies of this sacred place.

But there are other theories:

• Some attribute the origin of Eunate to the Knights Templar, who were responsible for guarding and protecting the roads to the Holy Land. If you look at its strategic location, you will notice its interesting octagonal layout and the delicate stonework on the ashlars of the shrine chapel, which are characteristic features of this mysterious order.
• It is said that it was the Order of Saint John who initiated the construction of Eunate as a hospital and cemetery for those in need of shelter. Look for the remains of tombs, marked with scallop shells, and feel the energy of prayer and the peace of the travelling souls buried there.

Parte de la magia de Eunate reside en su misterio, en lo que puede que nunca llegue a saberse. Lo que sí podemos asegurarte es que no olvidarás tu visita a Eunate porque este lugar tiene algo inexplicable. De hecho, para finalizar la visita cuenta la leyenda que si das tres vueltas al recinto, limpias tu cuerpo y espíritu. Tres vueltas a sus treinta y tres arcos suman 99, lo que da el origen a otro de los nombres del lugar, acuñado en el siglo XIX: ehun (cien) + ate (puerta) = las cien puertas, Eunate.

Explore the Romanesque heritage of the region, such as the incomparable Eunate and the imposing medieval bridge at Puente la Reina. Treat yourself to the finest wines, the great ambassadors of the wine culture in Central Navarre and enjoy the best landscapes in a natural setting that is second to none.