Orreaga/Roncesvalles is closely associated with the Battle of Roncesvalles in 778, when Basque forces attacked Charlemagne's rearguard during its retreat through the Pyrenees. Roland was among those killed, and the event later became the basis of the medieval epic The Song of Roland.
In the early 12th century, a monastery-hospital was established at the Ibañeta Pass to care for pilgrims. It was moved a few years later to the present site at Roncesvalles.
A direct bus connects Orreaga/Roncesvalles with Pamplona/Iruña.
A credencial can be obtained at the Albergue de peregrinos.
What to see in Orreaga/Roncesvalles
Museo de Roncesvalles
The Museo de Roncesvalles displays art, manuscripts and historic objects belonging to the Royal Collegiate Church. Among its best-known pieces are the 14th-century Ajedrez de Carlomagno ("Charlemagne's Chessboard"), actually a Gothic reliquary, and the Esmeralda de Miramamolín, traditionally said to have been taken by Sancho VII "the Strong" from the Almohad caliph's turban at the Battle of Las Navas de Tolosa in 1212.
Capilla del Espíritu Santo
The Capilla del Espíritu Santo, also known as the Silo de Carlomagno, is the oldest surviving building in Roncesvalles and dates from the 12th century. According to tradition, it was used as a burial place for Roland and his companions.
Real Colegiata de Santa María
The Real Colegiata de Santa María was built in the early 13th century under the patronage of Sancho VII of Navarre, who chose it as his burial place. The church contains a 14th-century image of the Virgin of Roncesvalles, made in Toulouse and covered in silver. The adjoining chapter house contains Sancho VII's tomb and a fragment of the chains that, according to tradition, he took as a trophy at the Battle of Las Navas de Tolosa in 1212. The chains are still represented on the coat of arms and flag of Navarre today.
Where to stay in Orreaga/Roncesvalles
