CF10 - Nájera - Santo Domingo de la Calzada - 21 km

Leaving Nájera: Camino towards Azofra

The Camino de Santiago leaves Nájera via Costanilla Street. As we approach the village of Azofra, we find that the two main streets of the place, Calle Mayor or Real and Calle del Sol, form part of the same route. In the church of Azofra, there is a notable image of Santiago in the main altarpiece, with the traditional attributes of the pilgrim. After drinking from the Fuente de Los Romeros, we leave Azofra behind and continue our journey.

From Azofra to Santo Domingo de la Calzada: A Historical Journey

The route takes us through Cirueña, known for its oak groves. A dirt path leads us to Santo Domingo de la Calzada, where the remains of one of the most emblematic saints of the Camino de Santiago rest.

A jurisdictional cross welcomes the pilgrim, and a charming legend explains the foundation of the town. According to the myth, a hermit named Domingo dedicated his life to helping pilgrims. He first built a bridge over the Oja River, then cleared part of the forest to create a safe causeway, and finally erected a hospital and a temple to provide both material and spiritual aid to pilgrims.

The Brotherhood of Santo Domingo de la Calzada: A Living Legacy

The work of Santo Domingo de la Calzada continues today through the Brotherhood of Santo Domingo de la Calzada. Its house, a pilgrims' shelter run by the brotherhood, is a must-stop for pilgrims on this stage of the Camino de Santiago.

The Old Town: History and Monuments

The old town of Santo Domingo de la Calzada retains its medieval street structure, with Calle Mayor as the main axis. Plaza del Santo, the heart of the old city, is bordered by the hermitage, the cathedral with its slender Baroque tower, and the former pilgrims' hospital, now converted into a luxurious national parador. The cathedral is an excellent example of protogothic architecture.

The Miracle of the Pilgrim: The Rooster Coop in the Cathedral

One of the most striking features of the cathedral is the rooster coop, where a white rooster and hen live permanently, recalling the miracle of the hanged pilgrim. This legendary story is part of the Camino de Santiago folklore. Additionally, the town's festivals, celebrated between April 25 and May 13, have been declared of National Tourist Interest. During this period, the town vividly re-enacts the life of the Saint.