The Fall of Estella-Lizarra and Monjardín: The End of the Last Navarrese Stronghold (Late 1512)

As Navarrese-French forces besieged Pamplona in October 1512, the rebellion in Estella-Lizarra became a key secondary front in the struggle for Navarre. However, the loyalist uprising was soon confronted by Castilian forces, leading to the final defeat of the Navarrese resistance in the western part of the kingdom.

The Navarrese Uprising in Estella-Lizarra

• The rebels in Estella-Lizarra, led by John Ramírez de Baquedano and Jaime Velaz de Medrano, had risen against the Castilian occupiers following news of the Navarrese counteroffensive.
• Estella-Lizarra, a stronghold of Navarrese loyalty, and the nearby fortress of Monjardín became key centers of resistance.
• The uprising threatened Castilian control over western Navarre, forcing Ferdinand II’s forces to respond swiftly.

The Castilian Response and the Siege of Monjardín

• Pedro de Beaumont, a leading noble of the Beaumont party (pro-Castilian Navarrese faction), led the Castilian counterattack.
• He was supported by two powerful Castilian commanders:
  • The Duke of Nájera
  • The Marquis of Comares
• The Castilians overwhelmed the defenders, forcing the Navarrese leaders to make a last stand in the Monjardín fortress.
• After a prolonged siege, Baquedano and Medrano realized resistance was futile, leading to a negotiated capitulation.

Consequences of the Fall of Estella-Lizarra and Monjardín

1. The End of Navarrese Resistance in Western Navarre

   • With the fall of Estella-Lizarra and Monjardín, Castilian forces secured the western part of the kingdom, cutting off a key support base for the Navarrese counteroffensive.

2. Increased Pressure on the Siege of Pamplona

   • The defeat at Estella-Lizarra forced Navarrese forces to consolidate their position around Pamplona, putting greater strain on their supply lines.

3. Castilian Consolidation of Navarre

   • The loss of these last strongholds made Navarre’s recovery even more difficult, paving the way for Castile’s full annexation of Upper Navarre.

Conclusion: A Crushing Blow to Navarrese Hopes

The fall of Estella-Lizarra and Monjardín in late 1512 was a devastating blow to Navarre’s resistance against Castilian occupation. While the Navarrese counteroffensive had made significant gains, the loss of these key strongholds meant that Castile was now in a stronger position to hold onto Navarre. The final battle for the kingdom would now be decided in Pamplona.