Castillo de Javier
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Castillo de Javier - by Rayle026 (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Description
Javier Castle is a fortress known as the birthplace of St. Francis Xavier, the missionary who would become the patron Saint of Navarra (it is thus a place of pilgrimage, at the beginning of March). It was first constructed in the 10th century and expanded several times until the 13th century. It comprises a bastion and tower, a chapel and crypt, and a museum.
Access & Transport
The castle is 50km east of Pamplona, close to the border with Aragon and the Lake of Yesa. From Pamplona, take the A-21 and exit 47 in Yesa, heading south on the NA-5410 for the last 5kms.
Instructions & Recommendations
There are guided visits in Spanish available most days, 3 times a day (10h30, 12h00, 16h30) We suggest combining this activity with the Foz de Lumbier and Foz de Arbayun
Environmental & Social
Environmentally neutral. Helps preserve the region's architectural and historical heritages.
Conclusion
Despite the split opinions, we think the castle deserves a visit; ruins have their charm but it is also nice to see medieval fortresses brought back to top condition and, considering the low admission fee, it does not matter very much whether the content of the museum lines up with one's personal interests or not.
Key positive
Photogenic, well-restored structure
Key negative
Too focused on the life of the Saint rather than the fortress
Suitability
Ramps make the castle mostly accessible for wheelchair users
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
August 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 40m
est. visit time:1h 20m
Start of Season 1:Mar, 01
MONDAY10:00 - 18:30
TUESDAY10:00 - 18:30
WEDNESDAY10:00 - 18:30
THURSDAY10:00 - 18:30
FRIDAY10:00 - 18:30
SATURDAY10:00 - 18:30
SUNDAY10:00 - 18:30
Start of Season 2:Nov, 01
MONDAY10:00 - 16:00
TUESDAY10:00 - 16:00
WEDNESDAY10:00 - 16:00
THURSDAY10:00 - 16:00
FRIDAY10:00 - 16:00
SATURDAY10:00 - 16:00
SUNDAY10:00 - 16:00