Church of Saint Mary of Eunate, Romanesque church in Muruzábal, Spain
The Church of Saint Mary of Eunate is a Romanesque place of worship in Muruzábal featuring an unusual octagonal floor plan made of dressed stone. The building includes a three-sided apse and alabaster windows that allow soft light to filter through the interior.
This church was built around 1170 and stood beside the French Way route of the Camino de Santiago. It served as an important stop for pilgrims traveling their spiritual journey through the medieval world.
The church displays a blend of Romanesque elements with local traditions from Navarre, recognizable by a distinctive chessboard pattern decorating the exterior. Visitors immediately notice how different building styles and local craftsmanship come together in the stonework.
The building stands about 2 kilometers southeast of Muruzábal and is accessible to visitors who can arrange a visit in advance. It makes sense to explore the surroundings on foot, as the rural location is suited for a leisurely walk.
Eight walls support an eight-rib vault influenced by the architecture of the Caliphate of Córdoba. This blend of Islamic and European building elements creates a rare geometric harmony in this rural setting.
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