Camino Photo of the Day: the Pilgrim’s Gate

Puente La Reina’s Calle Mayor ends in this little archway, which in medieval times formed part of the town’s defenses. Through this gate is the actual Puente La Reina itself – the Bridge of the Queen. There is some confusion about which queen the bridge is actually named for. The most common story is that it is named for Queen Muniadona, wife of King Sancho III of Navarra. She reportedly ordered the construction of the bridge for the use of pilgrims. However, other stories credit Queen Estefania, wife of King García Sánchez III.

Personally, I think the answer is much more obvious. When the bridge was originally built, an alcove in one of the center pilings held a statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary. I’m pretty sure the bridge – and therefore the town – was originally named after her.

Date: 03 April 2016
Place: Puente La Reina (Navarra, Spain)

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