Obanos

About this stop

A little about Obanos

Obanos is a small town with a rich history, located in the Navarre region of Spain. In the Middle Ages, it was a significant stop for pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago due to its strategic location at the junction of two important routes: the Camino Aragonés and the Camino Francés.

One of the most notable historical events in Obanos is the legend of Saint Guillén and Saint Felicia, two siblings who embarked on a pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela. Felicia decided to live a hermit life in the nearby mountains, while Guillén continued his pilgrimage. Upon his return, Guillén tried to convince Felicia to abandon her hermitage, but she refused. In a fit of rage, Guillén accidentally killed her. Overwhelmed with guilt, he confessed his crime and was sentenced to carry his sister's body to Santiago de Compostela. After completing his penance, Guillén returned to Obanos and founded a hospital for pilgrims.

Today, Obanos preserves its historical charm with well-preserved buildings, such as the Church of San Juan Bautista and the Church of San Salvador. The town also hosts a theatrical representation of the legend of Saint Guillén and Saint Felicia, known as the "Misterio de Obanos," which takes place every few years and attracts many visitors.