After crossing the Pyrenees many pilgrims would go via Puente la Reina, Logrono and Najara to reach Burgos and Santiago.
The Catholic monarchs of the time quickly understood the military and economic importance of keeping open this safe and unencumbered route. Two kings in particular played important roles in the route's maintenance: Alphonse VI of Castille (1072-1109) and Sanche I of Aragon (1063-1094). Gradually, bridges, roads and inns were built to accommodate pilgrims.The route linking Puente la Reina with Santiago soon came to be known as the Camino Frances, on the one hand because many pilgrims came from the other side of the Pyrenees and on the other because many Franks (monks, craftmen and traders) took up residence along the way.The Camino Frances has been granted world heritage status since 1993.