Barásoain – Culture, Pilgrimages and Trails in Valdorba

The Palacio de Azpilcueta was probably built over the birthplace of Martín de Azpilcueta, who was known as Doctor Navarro. In 1592, Felipe II stayed there while travelling to Navarra and Aragón to attend sessions of the Cortes in those regions. Today, only the monumental façade of the building remains; the wings with the courtyard and double galleries had fallen into disrepair. In front of the Palacio stands a monument to Doctor Navarro, erected in 1992 to mark the fifth centenary of his birth.

Barásoain is part of Valdorba, a valley with around twenty small towns and hamlets. In the Middle Ages, religious orders and pilgrims travelled through this valley along a branch route of the Way of St James. You can consider the local history, nature gardens, pilgrimages and the route as distinct focuses when planning your trip.

Other destinations: Beintza-Labaien, Donamaria, Burguete, Alsasua, Espronceda, Abaurrepea / Abaurrea Baja, Gallipienzo Antiguo, Galar

Culture and Townscape

The Ermita de Santa Lucía is located in the town centre. It was founded at the beginning of the 16th century and moved to its present location in 1568 under the patronage of Martín de Azpilcueta. In addition to the image of its patron saint, the chapel also houses an image of Saint Bartholomew.

The Virgen de Egipto is the patron saint of Barásoain. She has her own chapel at 4 Doctor Navarro Street and is brought to the parish church for her annual novena and feast. In the square named after him stands a 1.40-metre-high bronze monument depicting a human figure playing the clarinet.

The historic houses include the Casa de Olcoz y Remírez de Balanza, also known as Casa de Juanzar. It was built in the first half of the 17th century and has a simple façade with ashlar stones in the central section. The Olagüe y Lanz de Yribarren house, dating from the late 16th century, also stands on what is now Plaza de los Fueros.

Nature and Trails

The botanical garden includes an organic vegetable garden and a medicinal herb garden. Aromatic and medicinal species such as basil, stevia, mint, oregano, lemon verbena and rosemary grow there.

In Barásoain, the former washhouse and its surroundings have been developed as a walking area amid the wild vegetation of the region. The Ruta de los Corrales also begins in Barásoain; it is 21 kilometres long, has an elevation gain of 300 metres and is of moderate difficulty. It runs along wide paths between several wind farms that shape the landscape in this part of Navarra.

Pilgrimages and Music

At the end of April, Barásoain opens the cycle of pilgrimages made by the towns of Valdorba to the chapel of the Virgen de Egipto. The pilgrimage takes place in the afternoon and includes a mass and a light snack. It offers views of the grain fields ready for harvest.

The “Manuel Turrillas” Festival began in 2005 to mark the 100th birthday of the musician who came from Barásoain. Since 2016, it has been called the “Festival de música Manuel Turrillas” and, alongside other styles, includes jazz, soul, folk and country. After mass, participants usually prepare lamb ribs roasted over vine wood together; the municipality provides bread and wine.

To the main travel overview: Navarra.