After Roncesvalles, the pilgrim walks through the lower Navarre valleys at the foothills of the Pyrenees. Of the many rivers that flow out of the mountains, the Río Arga will continue along your camino path past Pamplona and through to Puente la Reina before continuing on to meet the mighty Río Ebro as it journeys to the Mediterranean. It is in Zubiri (stopping point stage 2) that the river is spanned by a medieval bridge dating from the 12th century. According to the legend, any animal who passed under the arches of the bridge or around the central pillar would be protected (or cured) of rabies. Today, it is known as the “Puente de la Rabia” (bridge of rabies). While it may not cure any disease, it is a great tonic to stop and refresh your feet in the gentle waters that flow beneath the arches.
