Epároz: Santa Fe, Church Art and Routes in Navarre

Culture

The Basilica of Santa Fe in Epároz is considered one of the finest examples of late Romanesque architecture in Navarre. The monumental Santa Fe de Epároz complex has been designated by the Government of Navarre as an Asset of Cultural Interest (Bien de Interés Cultural). Santa Fe de Epároz appears to have been founded at the end of the 12th century by monks from Sainte Foi de Conques in France.

The Santa Fe de Baratzagaitz complex near Epároz comprises a carefully restored Proto-Gothic church with a cloister added in the 17th century. The Monastery of Santa Fe de Epároz is part of the Monastery Route in Navarre. Epároz and Santa Fe also lie within the mapped area of the Camino de Santiago.

Churches and Art

The parish church of Epároz contains a Gothic Madonna and Child inspired by the titular figure of the collegiate church of Roncesvalles. The church of Epároz has a Baroque sculptural altarpiece in which the figure of the patron saint is highlighted. The sacristy of the church of Epároz houses a portrait of Blessed Esteban de Adoáin by the painter Javier Ciga.

The Church of San Andrés de Epároz dates back to the late 12th or early 13th century, was extensively remodelled, and preserves the original chancel. The Church of San Andrés de Epároz has a single-nave layout, a straight chancel and a pointed barrel vault in the choir. It preserves two 14th-century Gothic figures of the Virgin Mary, a 15th-century silver processional cross and a 16th-century pyx; the Marian figures come from the abandoned church of Santa Fe.

When comparing holiday apartments in Epároz, you can focus your days on churches and the monastery route, natural landscapes and hiking trails. On the listing pages, travel dates, room category and cancellation conditions help you assess each accommodation.

Other Places

Other places: Lumbier, Garísoain, Gallipienzo Antiguo, Uztegi, Cintruénigo, Enériz, Genevilla, Falces

Landscape and Routes

The hórreo in the Santa Fe de Epároz complex dates from the 15th century, has a square floor plan and stands on twelve stone pillars. The hórreo of Santa Fe was used to store religious dues, which consisted mainly of wheat, barley and beans. Access to the cloister and the hórreo of Santa Fe is free.

Santa Fe can be reached via the road connecting Aoiz and Lumbier. Parking is available at the Santa Fe turn-off; alternatively, a short access road leads to an open area beside the monumental complex. Access to Santa Fe de Epároz passes through an irregularly contoured valley, with views of Peña Izaga or the Sierra de Leyre and, in the distance, the peaks of the Pyrenees; vultures can also be seen there.

The Foz de Ugarrón is a 104-hectare natural area near Epároz; a hiking trail runs along the left-hand rock face. The route through Urraúl Alto can be divided into two shorter hikes via the road between Epároz and Irurozqui. Behind the church of Epároz, it passes through a metal gate into the village and then runs past the house called “Etxeko” below the cemetery.

To the higher-level travel overview: Navarre.