Free walking tours in Artajona and what to see

Must-sees

Artajona lies in central Navarre, between Pamplona and Tafalla, and its silhouette is one of the most recognisable in the region. At the top of the village stands El Cerco, a medieval citadel surrounded by a 14th-century wall that keeps nine of its fourteen towers. You can walk part of the wall walk, with open views over the cereal fields, and pass through the two original gates, San Miguel and Remahua.

Inside the walls, the Gothic fortress church of San Saturnino dominates, built in the 13th century over a Romanesque church. Look at the doorway with its archivolts, the figure of the saint with the bull and the large rose window. Its tower served as bell tower, lookout and even prison. On the outskirts is the sanctuary of Nuestra Señora de Jerusalén, and the municipality has dolmens showing the area was inhabited long before the Middle Ages.

Free tours and guided visits

There are no regular free walking tours in Artajona, but El Cerco has guided visits organised from the information point opposite the church. They are the best way to get into the church and the towers and to understand the history of the site. Groups must book in advance. If you are staying in Pamplona, Artajona fits nicely into a day trip with Olite, Puente la Reina or Santa María de Eunate.

How long to spend

Two or three hours are enough for El Cerco, the church and a stroll through the lower streets. If you want to take the guided visit and go to the Jerusalén sanctuary, set aside half a day. With a full day you can combine it with Olite or Eunate. In summer the village holds historical re-enactments of its medieval past that fill El Cerco with atmosphere.

Where to stay

Artajona has little accommodation, basically a rural house or two in or around the village, ideal if you want peace and clear skies at night. For more options, Puente la Reina, on the Camino de Santiago, and Tafalla are a short drive away. Pamplona, less than half an hour away, is the most complete base if you want to combine Artajona with other visits in Navarre.