Distance: 18 km / 11 miles
Stage Fourteen Villages
Villafranca Montes de Oca, San Juan de Ortega, Ages, Atapuerca
Watch for:
San Juan de Ortega – (Juan Velásquez) patron saint of Inkeepers. aka the saint of fertility. Legend: When his tomb was opened, the air was fragrant and a swarm of white bees flew out. Queen Isabel was barren; prayed at the tomb twice and had two children.
Atapuerca – Historical: Best known for its archaeological site near the town. The oldest site of humanity in Europe. Atapuercans lived here 1.2 million years ago. The village has existed since 750. Its present church is from the 15th c.
The prehistoric caves were declared a UNESCO World Heritage site because of their source as the earliest human remains ever discovered in Europe.
Restaurant recommendations (by Beebe): Comosapiens: English-speaking staff. Restored 19th c barn. Contemporary Castilian cuisine. €25 / Casa Rural Papasol: a la carte options & 3 set menus. €12 & €18.