Orreaga or Roncesvalles, located in Navarre, is a small yet historically significant town nestled in the Pyrenean foothills.

The town holds immense historical importance due to the Battle of Roncesvalles (778), where Charlemagne’s rear guard, led by the knight Roland, suffered a legendary defeat at the hands of Basque forces. This event inspired the famous medieval epic, The Song of Roland. The Basque attack was in retaliation for Charlemagne’s destruction of the city walls of their capital, Pamplona. As the Franks retreated across the Pyrenees back to Francia, the rearguard of Frankish lords was cut off and wiped out.

It’s also known as the traditional starting point of the Way of St. James in Spain, it attracts pilgrims and history enthusiasts alike. There is a Pilgrim’s Hostel which continues a centuries-old tradition of offering shelter to travelers on the Camino de Santiago.

The Collegiate Church of Santa María, a 13th-century Gothic structure, is the town’s most iconic landmark. Pilgrims and visitors are drawn to its serene cloister, the Royal Chapel, and the ancient tomb of King Sancho VII “the Strong.” Adjacent to the church, the Iglesia de Santiago and the Capilla del Espíritu Santo—believed to be the oldest building in Roncesvalles—are worth exploring. The chapel serves as a tribute to fallen warriors and pilgrims alike. There is also a museum and library which contains an impressive collection of medieval artifacts, manuscripts, and items related to the region’s history.

Roncesvalles’ scenic surroundings are equally captivating, with lush forests and mountain trails offering opportunities for hiking and nature walks. The nearby Puerto de Ibañeta provides panoramic views and marks a historic point where pilgrims have entered Spain for centuries.

Whether you are a pilgrim, a history enthusiast, or a lover of natural beauty, Roncesvalles offers a unique blend of cultural, spiritual, and historical experiences that reflect the rich heritage of the Basque Country.