Saint John of Ortega , after whom the town is named, is recognized as a saint who collaborated closely with Saint Dominic de la Calzada in opening routes that would help pilgrims during their journey in the region. For this reason, this town bears his name as a way of recognizing and honoring his work. To this was added the construction of what is now the Monastery of San Juan de Ortega (Monasterio de San Juan de Ortega).