From Iturrieta
65 km
By car
45 min
Style
Medieval Gothic
Origin
St. Francis Xavier
Castle of Javier: Fortress of the Patron Saint
The Castle of Javier is much more than a medieval fortress; it is the spiritual heart of Navarra. Here in 1506, Saint Francis Xavier was born, co-founder of the Society of Jesus and universal missionary. The castle, with its battlemented towers and drawbridge, looks like something out of a tale of chivalry.
Fully restored, the castle's interior houses a museum narrating the saint's life and the family's history. One of its most striking treasures is the Chapel of the Holy Christ, where a smiling Gothic Christ is surrounded by a medieval fresco of the 'Dance of Death', unique of its kind. Every March, thousands of Navarrese make a pilgrimage here during the popular 'Javieradas'.
Practical information
Smiling Christ
In the small castle chapel you'll see a Christ carved in wood that seems to smile. It is one of the most beloved pieces in Navarra.
Dance of Death
Look closely at the chapel's wall paintings; they depict dancing skeletons, an artistic rarity that recalled equality in death.
The Museum
The visit takes you through the former chambers, including the saint's room, with dioramas explaining his travels through Asia.
The Javieradas
If you visit on the first two weekends of March, you'll see thousands of people walking to the castle in a centuries-old tradition.
Keep Tower
From outside, find the best angle to photograph the Tower of San Miguel, the oldest and sturdiest part of the castle.
Dining Nearby
Near the castle there are several restaurants where you can enjoy a hearty Navarrese menu after your cultural visit.