Make the most of your visit to Central Navarre. Come and see the collection of steles at Tafalla, the dolmens in Artajona and the archaeological sites at Andelos and Eretas
If you don’t have much time to explore the region, you won’t want to miss these four must-see sites in Central Navarre. They’re all within a 20-minute drive of each other, so you can easily visit them all in a single day.
Come and see the funerary steles collection titled Piedra, tierra y memoria (Stone, earth and memory) at the Tafalla Culture Centre. This permanent exhibition has a collection of 20 or so disc-shaped steles on display, dating from the 1st century AD in Roman times to the modern era. It features the death rites and rituals in Central Navarre, which are likewise history, heritage and memory.
And while you’re here, don’t miss the model of the Royal Palace of Tafalla. The stone and slate replica by Victor Malumbres is the result of thousands of hours of work and archaeological and archive research. This palace was 25,500 m2 in area and boasted courtyards, barracks, stables, large rooms and towers, gardens and arbours.
References to the palace can be found as far back as 1318 and it was a royal residence from before the reign of King Sancho VII ‘the Strong’ of Navarre; however, its heyday would be under Charles III ‘the Noble’ of Navarre. Despite being described as the ‘Versailles of the monarchs of Navarre’ due to its beauty, it would gradually fall into rack and ruin in the 19th century without barely leaving a trace.
After you’ve seen the exhibitions, wander along the cobbled streets through Tafalla’s old quarter, and finish your visit enjoying a good pintxo (tapa) and shopping for some local delicacies.
Step back in time with a visit to the dolmens of Artajona. This remarkable site, discovered and excavated in the mid-20th century, dates back to the Bronze Age and is one of the most important examples of megalithic architecture in the region.
If you plan to visit, we recommend following the dolmen trail in Central Navarre on Foot. This family-friendly route starts at the Cerco de Artajona and runs past the Portillo de Enériz and Mina de Farangotea megaliths.
Make the most of your visit and explore the medieval town of Artajona. If you’d like to dive deeper into its rich history, check out our guide to medieval towns in Central Navarre.
Continuing your archaeological journey, we suggest visiting the Museum and Archaeological Site of Las Eretas, in Berbinzana.
This fortified Iron Age settlement is classified as a Site of Cultural Interest. During your visit, stroll through the remains of the settlement, where sections of the wall, tower and dwellings have been reconstructed, and pop into the museum dedicated to the excavation.
Book your tickets to travel back in time at the Las Eretas archaeological site here.
Learn about the fascinating history of Andelos, a Roman site located in Mendigorria municipal district. This town left an indelible mark on the region. Located at an important crossroads, it had up to 2,500 inhabitants, making it one of the key strategic centres of the time.
Wander along the streets of this remarkable archaeological site and museum, and learn about its sophisticated hydraulic infrastructure with a dam, aqueduct, springs and reservoirs.
Book your tickets for Andelos on the official website. The dramatised visit is recommended if you visit on a Saturday.
Make sure to leave time to visit the picturesque town of Mendigorria and its surrounding area. The old quarter is home to emblazoned houses, a fortified tower and two churches. Beautiful views can be enjoyed from the three picnic areas with amenities on the outskirts. One is next to the 13th-century Shrine Chapel of Andión, which is a mix of Baroque and Proto-Gothic styles.
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