Dicastillo lies on the southern foothills of Montejurra. Its historic centre rises on a hill and is divided into three quarters, connected by steep medieval streets and steps. Its elevation and layout shape the town, as do its church art and festivals. Nearby nature trails and a cycling circuit are additional topics to consider when planning your trip.
The historic centre and its elevation
The three quarters are more than just a historical division: their steep connecting routes are part of finding your way around the old town. If you want to explore the different parts of the hill, bear these streets and steps in mind when planning your visit. The town’s medieval character is reflected in its layout, not just in individual buildings.
Church art and architectural history
The Church of San Emeterio and San Celedonio brings together several periods. It was built in the 16th century in the style of the Catholic Monarchs; its portal, tower and surrounding wall were added in the 18th century. Its floor plan is in the shape of a Latin cross, and a small Gothic crypt lies beneath the sacristy.
The works of art in the main altar also span different periods: the altar is designed in the Romanist style and dates from the early years of the 17th century. It contains the Romanesque image of Santa MarĂa la Real de Irache, dating from the late 12th or early 13th century. Five altarpieces from the secularised monastery of Irache were transferred to the parish church in 1844; the Benedictines had permanently left the monastery in 1839.
Other historic buildings include the hermitage of Virgen de Nievas. It dates from the 16th century, was renovated in the 18th century and stands on a small hill near Dicastillo. The Neo-Gothic Palacio de la Condesa de la Vega del Pozo was built around 1890.
San Pedro de Gazaga offers two historical perspectives: the hermitage in Dicastillo is listed as a Bien Inventariado (BI); its surroundings were protected in 2012. Of the former monastery of San Pedro de Gazaga, only the Gothic church remains near Dicastillo. Its features include notable columns and capitals, two funnel-shaped rose windows and a three-part vault.
Festivals and local traditions
The celebrations of San Blas include a recipe tradition for Rosquillas de San Blas, preserved across generations. Another local tradition involves blessing the fields from the church wall and a procession carrying the saint and the Virgen de Nievas to the Nievas hermitage.
The asparagus fair takes place every year in May; the exact date varies from year to year. It includes a public tasting of fresh asparagus, as well as craft and food fairs. Several hundred kilograms of white asparagus from Navarre are available for the tasting. If you plan to travel for the fair, check the date for the year in question.
Nature trails and cycling nearby
Montejurra Bizi connects Dicastillo and Arellano through a network of nature trails in the Montejurra area. The activities on offer include hiking, Nordic walking, trail running and mountain biking. The Dicastillo area also has an XCO circuit, used for a race each year and rideable year-round.
The La Fuente del Toro route has a different character: much of the ascent follows a winding path through holm oaks; the final section is very steep downhill. As trail conditions can change with the seasons, it is a good idea to check them before setting out. This allows you to take the very different options—local history, festival traditions and outdoor activities—into account when choosing your stay in Dicastillo.
Discover more destinations: Zudaire, Orikain, Murillo El Fruto, Rada, Urdániz, Sorlada, Oderitz, Garde.
Return to the main travel overview: Navarra.
