Camino Photo of the Day: the Puente in Puente la Reina

This bridge over the Río Arga lends its name to the town: Puente la Reina, the Queen’s Bridge. But which queen? 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: 05 April 2013
Place: Puente la Reina (Navarra, Spain)

Map!