Aras

Aras is a small municipality in Tierra Estella located in the foothills of the Sierra de Codés, in a transitional zone between the mountains and the Ebro Valley. From various points in the village, sweeping views open up onto the surrounding agricultural and natural landscape, marked by vineyards, olive groves, almond orchards, and grain fields—all characteristic of this western part of Navarre.

The history of Aras is closely linked to that of Viana, on which it depended until the mid-19th century. It was one of the few settlements that refused to relocate to help found the city of Viana in the 13th century, retaining its original location and territory.

Aras is also known as Tres Aras, a name linked to its history and its municipal coat of arms, which features three churches. This name is traditionally associated with the existence of three altars: the parish church and two chapels, although some studies suggest a possible origin linked to ancient boundary markers or territorial limits in an area that was historically a border region.

The municipality’s main heritage landmark is the ruins of the former Franciscan Convent of San Juan del Ramo. Alongside this complex, the parish church of Santa María and the Santo Cristo del Humilladero chapel—which houses a Renaissance crucifix—stand out. This heritage is complemented by ethnographic and productive elements, such as the Nevera de la Veracruz, which is part of the Bodegas Cadarso Ciordia complex. After serving its original purpose related to the traditional use of snow, the ice house was adapted for storing wine barrels and is now used for aging bottles, thus reflecting the evolution of the local winemaking tradition.

Festivities continue to be an integral part of local life. In January, small festivities are held in honor of Saint Sebastian, the patron saint of Aras. On May 15, Saint Isidore is commemorated with a pilgrimage to the chapel of the same name, and in the summer, the patron saint festivities take place, bringing together residents and visitors in a warm, rural atmosphere.