Nestled in the middle of the
easternmost Pyrenean valley in Navarre stands the town from which the valley takes its name.
The waters of the river Esca flow through the town which is characterised by its cobbled streets and unusual "Y" shaped layout, dropping down from the 16th century parish
church of San Esteban which dominates the town centre with its Renaissance-Gothic silhouette. Huge mansion houses in ashlar stone dot the town streets.
The birthplace of the famous tenor Julián Gayarre, it conserves his
house, now converted into a museum. He is buried in the local cemetery in a fantastic
mausoleum, one of the best works of the sculptor Mariano Benlliure.
For information on Roncal and the surrounding area, the
Roncal Nature Interpretation Centre is well worth a visit.