Saint Mary of Eunate

Saint Mary of Eunate (now seen from the west) stands isolated, as it was erected not in or near a village, but in the middle of fields. In the background is the village of Olcoz and on the left one of the large quarries of Tiebas. A group of walkers have gathered in front of the old building, where the "tampon" ("sello") is stamped into the credencial. Upto 2012 a small albergue ("refuge") existed there.

From here to Puente la Reina, where the "Camino Aragonés" / "Via Tolosana" joins the busy "Camino Francés" is only a short walk.

There is not much information about the origins of this wonderful, octogonal church. The floorplan of Saint Mary of Eunate is surely inspired by the "Church of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem".

Such churches (eg Tomar, Estrella, Pisa..) are often connected to the Knights Templar, but there no proof, that they have ever been in this area. The earliest documented reference is from 1487 and just mentions the "Virgin of Eunate".

It is a spectacular church, surrounded by arches, that for sure has served the pilgrims in the early days.