Irache: Much more than a simple stop along the way
If we think of Navarra as a gateway to the famous French Way, the Irache Monastery, located in Ayegui, stands as an almost obligatory stop for anyone who enters this historic route. Whether you are a curious explorer, a thirsty pilgrim or a lover of the stories hidden in every stone, Irache has something to offer you.
This monastery, officially known as Santa María la Real de Irache, is an impressive place with a history dating back to the 12th century (although some of its walls are even older, from the 11th century). Originally, it was a hospice for travelers on the Camino, a place where pilgrims found refuge and rest.
But Irache is not limited to being a mere refuge. Its walls keep many secrets from the history of Navarra: the first university of the Community functioned inside and it also served as a hospital in the Carlist wars. Although some parts of the building are in a state of disrepair, it remains essential to understanding the rich history of this land.
Inside the monastery, with its almost 7,000 square meters of extension, you will find a Cistercian and Romanesque style church dating from the 12th century, considered one of the best examples of medieval religious architecture in Navarra. You will also be surprised by its sacristy and the impressive chapter house, which boasts a Renaissance vault from the 16th century.
And Irache's story does not end here. Its surroundings, with more than 17 hectares of centuries-old vineyards, tell another part of the local tradition. The monastery is located next to the Prado Irache winery, a prestigious winery that boasts a peculiar tribute to the Camino de Santiago: the famous source of wine.
Inspired by the ancient tradition of monks who welcomed pilgrims with food and drink, Bodegas Irache had the brilliant idea of installing this fountain in the 90s. Although offering wine to pilgrims was common in the past, this fountain was the first to automate the tradition, offering two spouts (one for water and one for wine) where pilgrims can cool off. Every day, the wine spout is filled with 100 liters of the year's red wine, ready to quench the thirst of walkers.
