The capital of Lower Navarre and a famous stop on the Way of St James, Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port charms passing pilgrims and lovers of old buildings in equal measure...
Surrounded by walls of pink sandstone, the medieval town of Saint-Jean-Pied- de-Port charms visitors with its cobbled streets lined with old houses, the old bridge over the Nive, picturesque façades along the water, its wall-walk and its imposing fortress rebuilt by Vauban, whose outline dominates the town's skyline.
To enjoy a beautiful view of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port and the verdant Basque country, feel free to climb up to the citadel entrance. It's worth the effort, as the view is magnificent! Then on the way back down Rue de la Citadelle, after crossing St James' Gate (Porte Saint-Jacques), take the time to admire the old houses decorated with carved lintels or do some shopping in the shops along the way. At 41 rue de la Citadelle, stop by the Bishops' Prison, where the museum has a permanent exhibition devoted to the Way of St James in medieval times!
