The Way of St James
To discover the region as a pilgrim or visitor is to feel the steps walked along this route for centuries, enjoy the excellent local cuisine and admire the stunning landscapes with their rich historical heritage.
The Way of St James
Santiago branch. From Santiago International Bridge to San Juan Harri Square.
- The International Santiago Bridge is one of the two optional routes available to pilgrims for crossing over into Irun from Lapurdi; the other route passes through Behobia. The two routes merge in the town’s historic quarter (Plaza San Juan Harria). .
- Distance: 1.550 m.
The Royal Road
Part 1: From the Behobia District to Plaza de San Juan Harria.
- Many years ago, Behobia and Roncesvalles were the most popular routes in the Western Pyrenees for transporting heavy goods (carts, artillery) between France and Spain. Later on, Behobia became the meeting place for the French and Spanish royal roads. As a result, the town was subject to special care and vigilance.
- Distance: 2.850 m.
Part 2: From Plaza de San Juan Harria to the Elizalde District (Oiartzun)
- Calle Mayor was the main street in the town until the 19th century. Today, it still contains some gothic buildings, such as Agirrenea House (num. 8), a fountain on the pavement opposite which provided fresh water to both inhabitants and passersby, the Siervas de Jesús Convent and the Ikust-Alaia villa, where the municipal archives and library are currently housed.
- Distance: 5.000 m.
The route through Hondarribia
Part 1: From Kaizarra to the Guadalupe Sanctuary
- From Kaizarra Jetty, the old fishing port, walk up into the historic quarter to Carlos V Castle. Then walk down Calle Mayor and through Santa María Gate to Santiagotxo Chapel, where the coastal road meets the inland road from Irun. From here, the path climbs up mount Jaizkibel to Guadalupe Sanctuary.
- Distance: 5.000 m.
Part 2: from Guadalupe to Lezo
- This path leads all the way along the crest of Mount Jaizkibel, passing by the old Erra-muz and Santa Bárbara towers before continuing up to the summit and the San Enrique Castle. The path then starts leading down to the historic quarter of Lezo.
- Distance: 8.500 m.
