The Romanesque bridge over the Rio Arga was built in the 11th century on the route used by pilgrims travelling to Santiago. Its construction is traditionally attributed to Queen doña Mayor (Muniadona), wife of Sancho III and founder of the monastery of San Martín in Frómista, although the attribution is uncertain.
A settlement developed around the crossing, and in 1122 Alfonso I granted the Fuero de Estella (Estella charter) to its inhabitants. Puente la Reina grew from this settlement and took its name from the bridge.
What to see in Puente La Reina - Gares
Puente románico
The Puente románico was built across the Río Arga in the 11th century and has six visible arches, with a seventh now underground. A chapel containing a statue of the Virgen del Puy once stood in a tower at the centre of the bridge. According to the legend of the txori ("bird" in Basque), a small bird repeatedly washed the Virgin's face with water from the river. The tower and chapel were removed in the 19th century, and the statue was transferred to the Iglesia de San Pedro.
Where to stay in Puente La Reina - Gares
Albergue Estrella Guía
Albergue Jakue
Albergue Puente
Albergue de los Padres Reparadores
Albergue Gares
Albergue Santiago Apóstol
