At the highest point in the medieval town of Ujué, the fortified church of Santa María de Ujué stands, elegant and imposing. Its name refers to the legend of a dove (Uxua in Basque). The story tells of a shepherd who, while looking after his flock, saw a dove constantly entering and exiting a hole in a rock. As he went to have a look, he found the image of the Virgin. The village people then built a church as a sanctuary for her.
Of Romanesque style, the church is embedded with different constructions surrounding and masking it. The most peculiar feature is its appearance as a military fortress, due to its crenellated towers (Cuatro Vientos and Los Picos), round steps and solid buttresses.
At present, it is an important Marian sanctuary, a National Monument, with significant renovation having been done on it. It is one of the jewels of the town for its beautiful galleries, its great Gothic nave with a Romanesque chevet and its two doorways. The north side is simpler and decorated with very descriptive scenes; while the south face, the main one, is a Gothic masterpiece that is certainly worth stopping to see.
Entry price: voluntary donations accepted.
For guided tours, make an appointment in advance.
Guiarte: 948 741 273. info@guiarteNavarre.com. Only to groups. Consult company for rates and timetables.
Dinamic: 618 820 414. visitaujue@gmail.com. Visit with exclusive access to the choir and tower.
Consult company for rates and timetables.