Puente la Reina - Iglesia del Crucifijo

Puente la Reina ( aka "Gares") was an important place in medieval times, as here the "Camino Aragonés" joined the "Camino Francés". The pilgrims having crossed the Pyrenees via the Somport met their collegues, who had used the Roncevaux Pass.

A six-arched-bridge over the Rio Arga gave the name to the town. It was built within the 11th century, commissioned either by Doña Mayor, wife of Sancho III, or by Doña Estefanía, wife of García III of Navarra.

The Iglesia del Crucifijo was erected just outside of the town, what explains the old name "Santa Maria de Hortis". It belonged to a convent of the Knights Hospitaller, who supported the pilgrims by operating "hopitals". The church was built within the 12th century, but an older structure had probably already a century ago. It got enlarged by a second nave later, when the number of pilgrims rose, as the Knights Hospitaller offered lodging.

The South Portal of the church has a slightly pointed arch. It was probably completed early 14th century, when the church got enlarged. Note the elaborately carved columns.