Castle of Javier
Navarra, Comunidad Foral de
The Castle of Javier, located on a hill in the town of Xavier in Navarra, Spain, dates back to the 10th century. It is renowned as the birthplace and childhood home of Saint Francis Xavier, a prominent 16th-century missionary. The castle complex consists of three main buildings of varying ages, including the oldest 'Tower of Homage' or San Miguel Tower, which contains a museum dedicated to the saint's life. The 'Tower of the Kristo Santua' serves as the main fortified building and chapel, notable for its Late Gothic crucifix and rare murals depicting the Dance of Death, unique in Spain. The castle underwent significant modifications in the 11th and 13th centuries, adding polygonal bodies and flanking towers. Historically, it was part of the Kingdom of Navarre and changed hands through loans and inheritances, notably coming under Sancho VII of Navarre in the early 13th century. In 1516, Cardinal Cisneros ordered partial demolition due to political conflicts, though much of the castle remains. The Jesuit Order acquired it in the late 19th century, restoring the castle and constructing an adjacent basilica designed by Ángel Goicoechea. Today, the castle is a major pilgrimage destination, especially during the annual Javieradas in early March, honoring Saint Francis Xavier, patron saint of Navarre.
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Astuce: The best time to visit the Castle of Javier is in early March during the Javieradas pilgrimage for a unique cultural experience. It is recommended to check opening hours and mass schedules on the official website. Purchasing tickets in advance is advisable during peak pilgrimage times. Visitors can also enjoy a virtual 360º tour online if unable to visit in person. Discounts may be available for groups, students, or seniors.
Faits intéressants
- •The castle houses unique murals depicting the Dance of Death, the only known example in Spain.
- •Saint Francis Xavier, one of the founders of the Jesuit order and a major missionary, was born here.
- •The castle's name derives from the Basque 'Etxeberri', meaning 'new house'.
- •In 1516, Cardinal Cisneros ordered the partial demolition of the castle due to political conflicts related to Navarre's independence.
- •The castle is the focal point of the Javieradas pilgrimage, attracting thousands annually in March.
Histoire
The Castle of Javier was originally built in the 10th century, with foundations possibly dating to Muslim occupation.
It became part of the Kingdom of Navarre and was acquired by King Sancho VII around 1223 after an Aragonese noble defaulted on a loan.
In 1236, it was granted to Adán de Sada.
The castle was the birthplace of Saint Francis Xavier in the early 16th century.
Due to the family's defense of Navarre's independence, Cardinal Cisneros ordered partial demolition in 1516, significantly reducing its fortifications.
Ownership passed to the House of Villahermosa through inheritance.
By the late 19th century, the castle was in ruins but was restored by the duquesa de Villahermosa and her family, who also commissioned the construction of an adjoining basilica completed by architect Ángel Goicoechea and contractor Blas Morte.
Guide du lieu
Tower of Homage (San Miguel Tower)10th century
The oldest part of the castle, housing the museum dedicated to Saint Francis Xavier's life. It contains archaeological remains possibly from the 10th century Muslim occupation.
Tower of the Kristo SantuaLate Gothic period
Main fortified building and chapel featuring a Late Gothic crucifix and rare murals illustrating the Dance of Death, unique in Spain.
Basilica of the Castle of JavierLate 19th century
An adjacent basilica built in the late 19th century by the Jesuit Order to honor Saint Francis Xavier, designed by architect Ángel Goicoechea and executed by contractor Blas Morte.
Contact
Téléphone: 948 88 40 24
