One of the most iconic spots of the Camino de Santiago is the Wine Fountain of Irache, located in Ayegui, Navarra. This unique fountain, which offers free wine to pilgrims, is a well-known stop among those walking the Camino Francés, one of the most popular Jacobean routes. In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about this must-see stop on the Camino, the Wine Fountain of Irache.
Wine Fountain of the Irache Winery in Ayegui
A free wine fountain for pilgrims?
Yes, the Wine Fountain of Irache is a unique stop for pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago Francés. During their journey, walkers have the opportunity to enjoy a glass of free wine that flows from the fountain. This curious tradition is made possible thanks to the collaboration of the Irache Winery, one of the most recognized in the region.
The history of the Wine Fountain of Irache
The Wine Fountain has its origins in a medieval tradition related to the hospitality of the monasteries along the Camino, which served as “hospitals” or, as we know them today, hostels. In the Middle Ages, monks offered wine to pilgrims as part of their hospitality. Wine was considered a good restorative, and as stated in the Codex Calixtinus, the region of Ayegui was famous for its bread and wine.
The wine that flows today from the fountain comes from the Irache Winery, founded in 1891 and located near Irache. The idea for the modern Wine Fountain originated in 1991, when the Irache Winery decided to revive this tradition with a fountain open to the public.
This winery is known for producing high-quality wine, mainly from the tempranillo variety, and for its contribution to wine tourism and the Camino de Santiago. Of course, it is also famous for its hospitality and generosity towards pilgrims, quenching their thirst for wine.
Pilgrims at the Wine Fountain of the Irache Winery in Ayegui
Where is the wine fountain located?
The Wine Fountain is located outside the Irache Winery, in Ayegui (Navarra), right on the Camino de Santiago route, about 3 kilometers after leaving Estella, and on the way between the towns of Ayegui and Irache.
The fountain is situated in a small resting area, where pilgrims can stop to enjoy their free wine before continuing their journey. In front of it stands the majestic Benedictine monastery of Santa María de Irache, and to complete the setting, there is even a Wine Museum of the Irache Winery.
The uniqueness of this fountain makes it one of the most iconic stops on the Camino, and by walking the Camino de Santiago Francés from Roncesvalles, you can enjoy it.
How much wine does the wine fountain provide?
The fountain offers up to 100 liters of young wine daily. Pilgrims can help themselves freely throughout the day, in reasonable and responsible amounts. One of its two legends embedded invites people to “take a drink and toast for happiness.” Additionally, it has two taps: one dispenses red wine, and the other fresh water. The fountain operates from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
The Irache Winery and wine on the Camino de Santiago
Other wine fountains
In other parts of Spain and the world, especially in wine regions, it is possible to find wineries and vineyards offering wine tastings. Let’s continue our wine route and explore some of them.
The Wine Fountain of Cádiar
The Wine Fountain of Cádiar, in the Alpujarra of Granada, is a tradition that dates back to 1967, when it became part of the Autumn Fair and Festivals. Each year, during this celebration, visitors can enjoy free wine made in the local farmhouses. It is one of the most unique fountains in Spain, celebrating friendship and the culture of wine.
The Wine Fountain of Jumilla
The Wine Fountain of Jumilla, created in 1972, is one of the main attractions of the Grape Harvest Festival. During the ten days of the festivities, a fountain in the town is decorated with wine-related motifs and symbolically flows with wine. Originally located in the Glorieta Garden, it is now held in the larger King Don Pedro’s Garden, allowing for more spectacular designs.
Wine culture is deeply rooted in many territories, including the Camino de Santiago
The Wine Fountain in Villa Caldari di Ortona
In Italy, the Wine Fountain in Villa Caldari di Ortona (Abruzzo), inaugurated in 2016, is a fountain that offers red wine for free 24 hours a day. Created in collaboration with the Dora Sarchese winery and the organizers of the Cammino di San Tommaso, this fountain is inspired by the one in Irache. With a design that includes a large barrel and a 3,000-liter underground reservoir, the fountain has turned the town into an important enotourism destination, attracting both pilgrims and tourists.
The Wine Fountain in Marino
In Marino, near Rome, there is a wine fountain that is activated annually during the Grape Festival. Unlike the others, this fountain only operates for one day, but its spectacular nature and the festive atmosphere have made it a beloved tradition among locals and visitors.
Without wine, there is no Camino
A pilgrim’s toast
The Wine Fountain of Irache in Ayegui symbolizes the spirit of hospitality and generosity that characterizes the Camino de Santiago. Tired from their journey, pilgrims can take a break to recharge with some wine, in a gesture of welcome, courtesy, and hospitality, which you can witness here. The fountain, as a symbol of the collaboration between wine tradition and the Camino, has been etched in the memory of pilgrims who visit it. So, will you join us on the Camino and toast with us?
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