Best attractions and places to see around Pitillas include historical sites and natural landmarks within the Navarra region of Spain. The area features a landscape characterized by its historical architecture and scenic views. Visitors can explore medieval castles, ancient religious buildings, and traditional settlements. These locations offer insights into the region's heritage and provide opportunities for exploration.
Last updated: May 4, 2026
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Unfortunately, the Romanesque church cannot be visited.
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The west façade of the Church of Santa María de Olite was restored between 2015 and 2017. The project, funded by the Government of Navarre and the Gondra Barandiarán Foundation, was ambitious and complex. It focused on its spectacular painted portal, built alongside the façade during the first third of the 14th century. The successive layers of polychromy had been preserved thanks to a large portico, removed at the end of the 19th century. It was necessary to clean all the elements, determine the causes of alteration, stabilize the existing damage, and protect the result to ensure its proper preservation. The work garnered the dedication and interest of specialists in architecture, restoration, archaeology, history, art, and viticulture. Thus, this necessarily multidisciplinary book was born. The portal of Santa María de Olite, in its most striking uniqueness, unites Christian iconography, art, and viticulture on a single plane, in a journey "from vine to stone," which is still understandable and coherent today. Information taken from https://www.culturanavarra.es/es/la-portada-de-santa-maria-de-olite-de-la-vid-a-la-piedra
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Carved out of a mountain, Ujué has only 300 inhabitants and is a remarkable example of a medieval village. Above the village towers an 11th century church
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Originally a Roman fortress in a strategic location, the fortress is both a castle and a palace, although it was originally built as a court building to fulfil a military function. Since the 13th century, the Castle of Olite has been called the Palace of the King of Navarre.
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Hidden behind the church is the old olive tree of Olite, I almost didn't see it.
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From Ujué there is a beautiful view towards the south down to the Ribera de Navarra, the wide valley of the river Ebro. In between there are mountains on whose slopes wine is grown. The small town is a stop on the Ruta del Vino, which leads through the wine-growing regions of Navarre.
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The church is attached to the Royal Palace and was used by the Navarrese monarchs for major festivals and ceremonial events. The palace had its own chapel dedicated to Saint George and a private, gated gallery dedicated to Saint Mary. Kingdom courts, baptisms, weddings and royal funerals took place here.
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The castle palace of Olite served as the residence of the kings of Navarre until the union of Navarre with Castile in the 16th century. The complex has been a listed monument since 1925.
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The region around Pitillas is rich in history. You can explore the magnificent Royal Palace of Olite, a former seat of the Kingdom of Navarre and a National Monument. Adjacent to it is the Church of Santa María la Real, a Gothic church historically used by Navarrese monarchs. Another notable historical site is Ujué, a medieval settlement with impressive architecture and panoramic views.
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Royal Palace of Olite is a fantastic place for all ages to explore medieval history. The Church of Santa María la Real, with its historical significance, is also considered family-friendly. Additionally, the unique Ancient Olive Tree of Olite offers a quick, interesting stop for families.
While the area is known for its historical sites, you can find natural beauty and stunning viewpoints. The medieval town of Ujué offers panoramic views of the Ribera de Navarra and even the Pyrenees from its elevated position, particularly near the Church of Santa María. You can also visit the ancient Olive Tree of Olite, a natural monument.
Visitors frequently praise the grandeur and historical significance of the Royal Palace of Olite, often calling it one of the most imposing and luxurious castles in Europe. The medieval architecture and incredible panoramic views from Ujué are also highly appreciated, with many highlighting its charm and historical depth.
Yes, there are several hiking opportunities. You can find easy to moderate trails, such as the 'Royal Palace of Olite – Church of Santa María la Real loop from Erriberri' which is an easy 2.5 km route. For more options, explore the dedicated guide for Hiking around Pitillas, which includes routes like 'Rodeo to the Laguna de Pitillas' and 'Castillo de Santacara to Ciudad romana de Cara – circular from Santacara'.
Absolutely. An easy option is the 'Royal Palace of Olite – Church of Santa María la Real loop from Erriberri', which is about 2.5 km long. This allows you to combine sightseeing with a gentle walk. For more beginner-friendly routes, consult the Hiking around Pitillas guide.
Yes, you can find circular routes for walking. For example, the 'Castillo de Santacara to Ciudad romana de Cara – circular from Santacara' is a moderate 8.7 km loop. Another option is the 'Teobaldos Square, Olite – Church of Santa María la Real loop from Olite / Erriberri'. More circular routes are detailed in the Hiking around Pitillas guide.
Beyond hiking, the area offers great opportunities for cycling. You can find dedicated guides for both MTB Trails around Pitillas and Cycling around Pitillas. These guides feature routes of varying difficulties, such as the 'Laguna de Pitillas and Roman City of Cara Loop' for MTB or the 'Church of Santa María la Real – Monte Plano Trail - Tafalla loop from Erriberri' for touring bicycles.
The region generally enjoys pleasant weather for exploration during spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October), when temperatures are milder and the landscapes are vibrant. These seasons are ideal for both sightseeing historical sites and engaging in outdoor activities like hiking or cycling.
While the main attractions are well-known, exploring the smaller, traditional settlements beyond the main highlights can offer a glimpse into local life and architecture. The ancient Olive Tree of Olite, tucked away behind the church, is a unique natural monument that some visitors might miss but find interesting.
To fully appreciate the Royal Palace of Olite, including its various courtyards, towers, and historical exhibits, it's recommended to allocate at least 2 to 3 hours. If you opt for a guided visit, which is highly recommended to uncover all its details, the duration might be longer.


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