3. Navarre Bridge

Here you can see another of the five places of entry to the ancient walled town: the Navarre Gate.

The Royal Road from France to Navarre crossed this bridge, hence its name. Being an important place of passage, it was used as a customs post. Its construction dates back to the 13th century, and it originally had four arches, all of different sizes. In the 18th century a fifth arch was added, the one nearest Santa Clara Convent.

When coming over the bridge, you may have noticed some young people in skiffs, and may perhaps have wondered what they were doing rowing on the river. Well that can be explained. In days gone by local groups would compete with one another, and the banks on both sides of the river would be packed with spectators. Today, TAK, the club located beneath the Tinglado, has more than 100 members. It is the only inland club to compete in the rowing boat races held in the Cantabrian Sea.

This was made possible by work to clean and regenerate the river, followed later by the installation of an inflatable weir to the north of the bridge. Today, apart from rowing, you can also do other water sports like canoeing and stand up paddle.

We also have aficionados who practice slackline from one side of the river to the other, impressively keeping their balance. Are you up for any of these activities?

Cross the bridge to the next stop on your tour: Santa Clara Convent.