Category Archives: Aragón

Monasterio de Piedra (Stone Monastery), Nuévalos (Zaragoza)

May 31, 2018Aragón, Beach, mountain and nature, Saragossa / ZaragozaJose Maria

Nowadays, Monasterio de Piedra (Stone Monastery) is one of the best tourist destination in Nuevalos, (Zaragoza Province, Aragón, Spain) for people who like enjoying of the flavour of the traditional cuisine, good wine, natural environments and impressive landscapes. In fact, the medieval Monasterio de Piedra is now an outstanding complex with an excellent hotel and a beautiful natural park well known for its fascinating waterfalls.

Monasterio de Piedra is located on the left bank of the River Piedra, only 27 km from Calatayud, 111 km from Zaragoza-Saragossa and 200 km from Madrid.

Monasterio de Piedra: Buildings

The first buildings of the monastic settlement were built of wood and mud bricks (adobes) by Cistercian monks who had arrived from Poblet Monastery in 1194.

The construction of the Medieval Monastery de Nuestra Señora de Piedra was begun in the year 1203 in a quiet place near Piedra River in Gothic architectual style and in 1218 was the consecration of the abbey church. The buildings were built as many cistercian monateries, a standard layout or a typical design of the cistercian order was repeated with its abbey church beside the cloister and the rooms spread around the cloister. Besides a vegetable garden and a high wall surrounding the monastery. In addition a Renaissance Palace and others Barroque building were built between 15th and 16th centuries.

In 1809 the cistercian monks were expelled from the Monastery and 5 years later the monks returned to the Monastery. In 1820 they were expelled from the Monastery again and they returned to the Monastery in 1823. The monks remained in the Monastery until 1835.

Monasterio de Piedra: Natural Park

In the middle of the 19th century the medieval monastery and the vegetable garden were bought by Pablo Muntadas. The buildings of the monastery were adapted as a first class hotel to provide all services. The vegetable garden was transformed into a space with an exceptional landscape where people can also walk and enjoy the impressive waterfalls, lakes, caves and nature. In addition, if tourists like outdoor activities in natural surroundings such as hiking they will never forget this park.

Monasterio de Piedra: Hotel

The 12th century tower of the tribute gives visitors a cozy welcome before going into the walled Monastery of Piedra Hotel. The buildings of the medieval monastery were transformed into a comfortable hotel, the church of the Monastery which is in ruins is used for events, there are others magnificent buildings which are well preserved. So visitors can see and enjoy the cloister from 13rd century, the chapterhouse, the refectory, the kitchen, the cilla, the dormitories, the library, and so on

If tourists like nature, flora and fauna do not miss the opportunity to visit the Monasterio de Piedra.

More places to visit in Zaragoza Province

– Zaragoza city: With almost 700,000 inhabitants, Zaragoza (Saragossa) is one of the biggest cities of Spain. Its strategical location between Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia and Bilbao, and its proximity to The Pyrenees and France, make Zaragoza one of the most important logistic points of Spain.

– Calatayud city.

– Tarazona city: Tourists visiting Aragón region should not miss the chance to visit Tarazona. In fact, the town really has an impressive ensemble of Mudéjar buildings, as well as an interesting old quarter (casco antiguo) with an exceptional historic and artistic heritage where Jews, Muslims and Christians coexisted for a long time in the medieval times leaving an unmistakable cultural imprint on Tarazona.

San Pablo Church (Iglesia de San Pablo) Zaragoza

May 22, 2016Aragón, Saragossa / Zaragoza, Streets and monumentsjulia

The Mudéjar San Pablo Church (Iglesia de San Pablo) is the third most important Catholic Church in Saragossa city, after La Seo del Salvador and the Basilica of Our Lady of the Pilar, both buildings are situated in the Cathedrals Square. San Pablo’s Church is situated between San Pablo and San Blas streets, in the traditional San Pablo neighborhood, also known as “El Gancho” in the historical center. Not far of this church are the Roman Walls, Central Market and Pilar Square, the main tourist area of the city. It is worth mentioning that San Pablo’s Church together with La Seo, Aljaferia Palace and several other buildings form part of the Mudéjar Architecture of Aragón which was declared a World Heritage site by UNESCO in December 2001 as the most representative Mudéjar Architecture of Aragón.

Built on the site where another temple stood previously, San Pablo’s Church was built with bricks in Mudéjar style between the late 13th and early 14th centuries. The first construction had a rectangular nave and the bell tower. Afte that, two lateral naves were added to the first nave at the end the 14th century. Moreover, it was several times remodeled and renovated between the 16th and 18th centuries and restored in the late 20th century.

A visit inside the church enables us to see a whole set of artworks, as well as its impressive high altar in polychromed wood by Damian Forment dating from 1515 (Gothic Renaissance), a jewel of art in Aragón. Inside visitors can also enjoy its interesting paintings, chapels, the choir and its magnificent organ with its original Gothic box which dates from the 15th century, although some of the pipes and other parts of the organ represent interventions in the 16th and 19th centuries.

The octagonal bell tower was built in the mid 14th century in Mudéjar style and decorated with bricks and glazed tiles, the seventh floor and the spire were added in the 17th century. The beautiful tower is 66 meters high and has seven floors which can be climbed stairs in order to reach the top, from where the visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of Saragossa. Due to that the tower was constructed before adding the two lateral naves to the building the tower’s base and its first floor are situated inside the church.

Mudéjar art is a style unique to Spain. Its forms, techniques and decoration of Aragonese Mudéjar art are characterized by the refined use of brick and glazed tiles in its architecture. People interested in Mudéjar art should not leave without visiting the elegant tower and go up the stairs to the seventh floor because San Pablo’s Church is worth visiting. The guided visit of San Pablo’s Church, cloister and tower costs 4 euros, we suggest that visitors book it in advance.

More places to visit in Zaragoza (Aragón, Spain)

– Basílica del Pilar: The Pilar Cathedral (also called Basilica del Pilar) is the most famous icon of Saragossa. This church is placed in the centre of the city at Pilar Square (Plaza del Pilar), near the Ebro river and in the same square than “La Seo”.

– La Seo Cathedral: Salvador Cathedral (popularly, La Seo), in Zaragoza was declared a World of Heritage site by UNESCO as one of the most representative Mudéjar architecture of Aragón.

– Paseo Independencia (Independence Avenue): The main street of Zaragoza. Beginning at the end of Gran Via, the avenue runs from Plaza Paraiso all the way to Plaza España.

– La Aljafería: A must for all tourists that arrive in Saragossa is to visit the stunning Aljaferia Palace, which is really the most visited historic site in Saragossa. This medieval Islamic palace was built by Muslims on the banks of the river Ebro in the 11th century.

– Expo 2008 Zone: In summer 2008, Saragossa received the international exposition Expo Zaragoza 2008, which was placed aside the shore of the Ebro River. Currently, the Expo Zone is open to all the visitors who want to see the area and enjoy its activities.

– What to visit in Zaragoza: Read here our two-days tour in Zaragoza.

Pilar Square, Saragossa (Plaza del Pilar de Zaragoza)

February 27, 2015Aragón, Saragossa / Zaragoza, Streets and monumentsjulia

Located in the very heart of Saragossa city and near the Ebro River, the spectacular Pilar Square is a site of significant historic heritage that is enjoyable and accessible by citizens and visitors. It is a lively place often used for a wide range of public events, celebrations and music performances throughout the year, such as, the popular Offering of Flowers, when people from all over the world come here to offer flowers to the Virgin del Pilar, and different groups of performers sing and dance traditional songs in the square on the 12th Octuber; San Valero cake (on 29th January and On New Year’s Eve, when citizens come here to join in the fun in order to eat the grapes. Moreover, the Easter Week Processions, one of the most interesting events in Zaragoza with drums and bass drums that has preserved its traditional values since the 13th century In fact, Pilar Square is one of Saragossa’s most recognized public spaces.

Pilar Square and The two Cathedrals

No visit to Saragossa will be complete without spending some time in Pilar Square, here people can see not only “El Pilar” Cathedral but also La Lonja, the City Hall and the Hispanidad Fountain. Moreover, “La Seo” cathedral, several interesting museums, San Juan de los Panetes’ church, El Torreon de La Zuda, the Roman Walls, the Stone Bridge over the Ebro River, Mercado de Lanuza ( Central market ) and Santa Isabel’s church are all nearby. If visitors want a break from sightseeing, they will certainly enjoy walking along the lively pedestrian Alfonso street, the most famous street in Saragossa with traditional buildings, elegant shops, excellent cafés and restaurants. By the way, visitors will find a lot of beautiful statues, sculptures, monuments and other interesting things if they take a stroll around this area.

La Lonja and The City Hall

La Lonja de Mercaderes de Zaragoza was built to serve as a market exchange for merchants between 1541 and 1551 in Renaissance style. Designer by the renowned architect Juan de Sariñena (14??-1545), who died before it was finished, La Lonja is regarded as his masterpiece. In fact, it is one of the buildings most remarkable of the Aragonese civil architecture of the 16th century in Aragón. The building is rectangular in plan and inside the magnificent hall is divided into three aisles by five rows of slender pillars (24) from which spring the beautiful vaulting of the roof. Nowadays, La Lonja is used as a hall for public exhibitions. Do not miss the chance to visit La Lonja which offers free admission.

Despite the fact that City Hall building of Saragossa was built between 1941 and 1965 as a renaissance palace in Mudéjar style, inside people can see three magnificent Múdejar techumbres ( roofs) dating from 16th century and a few interesting paintings, as well as two impressive statues stand at the entrance of the City Hall building by the world-renowned sculptor Pablo Serrano Aguilar ( 1908 – 1985 ). The statues are known as San Valero and the Angel de la Ciudad, both of them from 1965. As for the Mudéjar techumbres, they really belonged to a palace of Osera de Ebro village that had been demolished in 1963. The City Hall is between El Pilar and La Lonja.

Fountains, Roman Wall, The Market and other remarkable buildings

Fuente de la Hispanidad was erected between 1990 and 1991 by the architect Ricardo Uson García and has the silhouette of South America. As for San Juan de los Panetes’ church, it was built on the site where another church had stood previously. The current church was built in the early 18th century in Baroque style. However, its octagonal Mudéjar tower was constructed in the 16th century. San Juan de los Panestes is between the Hispanidad Fountain and La Zuda.

Torreon de La Zuda was the headquarter of the Muslims (Torre del Homenaje) before Saraqusta (Saragossa) was conquered by Alfonso el Batallador in 1118, afterwards, it was the residence of the kings of Aragon until the 13th century that the king moved to Aljaferia. La Zuda was built over several towers of the Roman Walls in the early 10th century by the Muslims. In the mid 16th century it was rebuilt in Mudéjar style and restored in the mid 20th century. Nowadays, it is a Municipal Tourist Office, besides there is a view point for visitors on the fifth floor of building from where visitors can see some splendid views of the surroundings. By the way, visitors can take a look at the historic building and climb the stairs it offers free admission.

Roman Walls were constructed between 2nd and 3rd centuries by the Romans in order to defend the Roman town of Caesaraugusta (Saragossa). The Roman walls had a perimeter of 3 km and more than a hundred of fortified towers. Unfortunately, the Roman walls were dismantled in the 15th century in order to expanded the town. Nowadays, Roman remains of the walls that once surrounded the town can be seen near the Pilar Square, next to La Zuda.

In addition, Saragossa was known as Salduie before the Romans settled down here. Afterwards, it was called Caesaraugusta by the Romans. Besides, during the Muslim domination it was known as Saraqusta, and from 1118 it is called Zaragoza.

Mercardo de Lanuza, popularly known as Mercado Central, is situated next to the Roman Walls in an emblematic place. It is the most famous market in Saragossa. In fact, it is particularly bustling in the mornings on the weekdays when visitors and citizens can enjoy the atmosphere of a real working market buying the best freshest and healthiest food. As for the building, it was constructed between 1900 and 1903 in Modernist architecture by the renowned architect Felix Navarro Pérez ( 1849 – 1911). The land occupied by the market is rectangular in plan and its measurements are 130 meters in length by 26 meters in width with three naves. The two-storey market was built on the site of the Lanuza square (Plaza de Lanuza the main square) which had been used for traditional markets, bullfightings, jousts, tournaments and other events since 1210. It was a place in which great historic events had taken place, such as the public execution of the Ombudsman Juan de Lanuza V on 20th Diciembre 1591 by order of the Felipe II king of Spain. As for Juan de Lanuza ( 1564 – 1591), he suffered the great injustice of being punished for being the Justice of Aragón and his death was mourned by all the Aragoneses who play tribute to Juan de Lanuza every year. His remains are in Santa Isabel de Portugal’s church.

Santa Isabel de Portugal’s church, also known as San Cayetano’s church, lies in the emblematic Plaza de La justicia near the Central market (Mercado de Lanuza) and Pilar square. It was built in the mid 17th century in memory of Saint Isabel (1271-1336) queen of Portugal and daughter of Pedro III ( 1240-1285) king of Aragón in Baroque style. Its richly decorated facade is a well known landmark in Saragossa. Inside visitors can see some magnificent Baroque altarpieces, such as Santa Isabel de Aragón the main altarpiece with a beautiful image of Santa Isabel by the sculptor Gregorio de Mesa dating from 1705; the impressive sculpture of La Piedad, a masterpiece by Antonio Palao Marco (1871), can be seen on the Baroque altarpiece of La Piedad; the chapel of la Hermandad de la Sangre de Cristo where the Cristo de la Cama is worshiped during Easter Week. Don’t forget that the remains of Juan de Lanuza has been in this church since 1914. It is a must see place.

Everybody who visits the Zaragoza is sure to appreciate its character. Why don’t you complete your Zaragoza experience with a walk around this square?

More places to visit in Zaragoza (Aragón, Spain)

– La Seo Cathedral: Salvador Cathedral (popularly, La Seo), in Zaragoza was declared a World of Heritage site by UNESCO as one of the most representative Mudéjar architecture of Aragón.

– Paseo Independencia (Independence Avenue): The main street of Zaragoza. Beginning at the end of Gran Via, the avenue runs from Plaza Paraiso all the way to Plaza España.

– What to visit in Zaragoza: Read here our two-days tour in Zaragoza.

What to visit in Tarazona city (Zaragoza, Aragón)

December 26, 2014Aragón, Saragossa / Zaragoza, Streets and monuments, Tours and Guidesjulia

Tourists visiting Aragón region should not miss the chance to visit Tarazona whose magnificent cathedral, also known as” La Seo” is considered to be one of the jewel of the Spanish architecture. In fact, the town really has an impressive ensemble of Mudéjar buildings, as well as an interesting old quarter (casco antiguo) with an exceptional historic and artistic heritage where Jews, Muslims and Christians coexisted for a long time in the medieval times leaving an unmistakable cultural imprint on Tarazona.

Tarazona is situated in the Queiles valley at the foot of the majestic Moncayo massif (its highest summit is San Miguel mountain that rises 2,314 m), in an outstanding natural landscape of exceptional beauty in the western Aragón. Although Tarazona only has a population of about 11,000, the lively town certainly has a lot of to offer in the way of architecture, culture, nature, gastronomy, sport, festivals among other things, without forgetting its rich cultural heritage.

Taking an enjoyable stroll along its steep and narrow cobbled streets is the ideal way to visit this historic town, because the most important buildings and places are within walking distance including the cathedral and the old bullring which lie on the other side of the Queiles River that flows through the town.

Cathedral of Nuestra Señora de la Huerta, which has three naves and Latin cross plan, was begun its construction in the 13th century in French Gothic style although it was not finished until the 16th century in Mudéjar style. Therefore, the outer face of the Gothic Cathedral was covered by Mudéjar construction, as well as other Mudéjar elements were added inside the cathedral between 15th and 16th centuries, such as the absolutely amazing dome (cimborrio) a masterpiece of Mudéjar art that was built in the mid 16th century by the prestigious maestro Juan Lucas ”Botero”. The beautiful cloister was rebuilt between 1495 and 1525 in Mudéjar style too. As for the spectacular square bell tower, it was constructed in three different styles: Gothic, Mudéjar and classical. The Gothic base of the tower was built in the13th century; the second stage of the tower was built in the late 15th century in Mudéjar style; finally, the tower was completed in the late 16th century in classical style.

If visitors go into the cathedral, they will be able to see the Gothic mural paintings on the dome which were discovered by chance when the cathedral was restored in the year 2000, the valuable painting is considered to be unique to Spain and it is known as the Sistine Chapel of the Spanish Renaissance. Besides, the beautiful choir stalls dating from 15th century; the choir’s domes that were decorated by Vicente Berdusán in the 17th century; the beautiful main altarpiece and the organ are also worth a visit. Obviously, the cathedral is a must see place.

The old bullring was built in 1792 to celebrate bullfights, however, in the mid 19th century another new bullring was built, and the old one has been used for street market, festivals and other events since 1870. The bullring, which is surrounded by houses, gives the town a picturesque character. The cathedral and the bullring are near the Santuario de la Virgen del Río where visitors can enjoy a Baroque altarpiece dating from 17th century with the patron saint of Tarazona, as well as the Convent of Santa Ana built in the early 17th century in Mudéjar style.

Santa María Magdalena’s church is situated in the popular Barrio del Cinto (Cinto neighborhood) with its attractive bell tower above the river. The church was the first cathedral built in Tarazona and its construction was begun in the 12th century in Romanesque style, although it was restored and finished in the early 15th century with Mudéjar elements, such as the wooden ceiling (techumbre) in Mudéjar style. Inside the church visitors can enjoy the main altarpiece. The bell tower was built between 12th and 16th centuries in Romanesque and Mudéjar styles. In this area visitors can also see remains of the the medieval wall.

Concepción’s Convent was built in the mid 16th century in Mudéjar style, its bell tower was built over the medieval wall in Mudéjar style too.

The Renaissance Town Hall building lies in the Plaza Mayor in the heart of Tarazona. This emblematic palace was built in the mid 16th century. Anyway, the building has been restored several times since its construction.

Moreover, Tarazona has other interesting buildings and places worth a visit, such as San Francisco’s church; the Archbishop’s Palace from 16th century in Renaissance style; the Jewish neighborhood which is remarkably well preserved; the hanged houses; without forgetting the famous Cipotegato, the most popular fiesta of the town where visitors and local people can enjoy the traditional Festival of San Atilano on 27th August every year..

In addition, Tarazona was founded by the Celts in the 2nd century BC, after that, the Romans, the Visigoths and the Muslims dominated the town until Alfonso el Batallador, king of Aragón (1073-1134) reconquered Tarazona in 1119.

Tarazona is 85 km away from Zaragoza, 12 km away from the Monastery of Veruela and 25 km away from Borja.

More places to visit in Aragon

– Zaragoza: With almost 700,000 inhabitants, Saragossa is one of the biggest cities of Spain.

– Huesca and The Pyrenees.

– Teruel: Located in the south of Aragón, Teruel city is an ideal city to live and enjoy its interesting museums, unique architecture, traditional festivals, delicious gastronomy, among other things.

– Monasterio de Piedra: Monasterio de Piedra is located on the left bank of the River Piedra, only 27 km from Calatayud

Monastery of Veruela, Vera de Moncayo (Aragón)

November 21, 2014Aragón, Emblematic buildings, Saragossa / Zaragozabestplaces

Founded in 1145 by Don Pedro Atarés, Señor de Borja, the Monastery of Veruela (Royal Monastery of Santa María de Veruela – Monasterio de Veruela) was the very first cistercian Monastery established in La Corona de Aragón (Crown of Aragón). In fact, the cistercian monks moved here in 1171 and the consecration of the abbey was in 1248 by the bishop of Calahorra.

The emblematic Royal Monastery of Santa María de Veruela is located in an outstanding quiet valley at the foot of the spectacular Moncayo Mountain, very close to the Huecha River, and 1 km away from the lovely Vera de Moncayo village, in the western Zaragoza province.

Veruela’s Monastery was certainly built as many cistercian abbeys, a standard layout or a typical design of the cistencian order was repeated with its abbey church beside the cloister and the rooms spread around the cloister. Besides, a vegetable garden and gardens and other buildings such as the mill and the water tank ( aljibe) were separated from the main buildings.

The medieval complex of the Monastery of Veruela was built between 12th and 14th centuries in Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles. Moreover, the Renaissance palace of the abbot and other buildings were built in the 16th century, and a new Baroque monastery was also added next to the medieval cloister in the 17th century, as well as a fortified hexagonal wall, which has remaind intact since 16th century, had been erected around all the buildings and its grounds in the 16th century occupying an area of more than 50,000 square metres.

What to see in Veruela’s Monastery

A fortified tower built in the 13th century in Romanesque style gives visitors a cozy welcome before going into the walled Monastery.

If tourists decide to visit the monastery by themselves, they should not miss the chance to see the breathtaking Church of Santa María de Veruela, which impresses visitors with its measurements of more than 72 meters long by more than 22 meters wide and more than 18 meters high. Being the most remarkable building of the Monastery, the church has three naves and Latin cross plan in Romanesque and Gothic styles dating from the12th and 13th centuries. Its main facade from the12th century in Romanesque style with fine capitals on its portade (gate) shows us the beauty and simplicity of the cistercian architecture. Inside visitors can see: several Romanesque chapels from 12th century; the Virgin of Veruela, a statue of wood carving of Our Lady of Veruela from the 15th century; on the left there are the chapel dedicated to San Bernardo with the beautiful sepulcher of the abbot Lope Marco dating in the mid 16th century and a medieval spiral staircase that goes up to the San Martin’s bell tower dating from the 13th century; on the right, there are the Baroque gate of the sacristy from the 16th century; the magnificent monks door from 13th century that allows visitors to go into the cloister and admired the three sepulchers dating from 12th century on their left; and the converts door that goes into the cilla( storeroom) and the cloister.

The spectacular medieval cloister from the 14th century in Gothic style is the heart of the monastery, from here visitors can easily go into the most important rooms of the medieval monastery even the church. In the 16th century, a Renaissance double cloister was added over the medieval cloister.

The new sacristy lies among the church, the cloister and the chapter room, here visitors can know more about the beautiful main altarpiece of the church and enjoy the interesting paintings, sculptures, remains of the main altarpiece among other things..

The remarkable chapter room is dated in the 13th century in Romanesque style, here visitors can admire the sepulcher of Lope Ximenez from 13th century and the abbot Sancho Marcilla from 14th century.

The monks room from 13th century in Romanesque style is also worth a visit, as well as the Refectory dating in the13th and 16th centuries in Romanesque and Gothic style that is used for exhibitions.

People should not leave the monastery without visiting: lavatorium, storeroom (cilla), kitchen, warming room, dormitory, new monastery, as well as the mill and the Wine Museum which is situated in the aljibe (water tank).

This beautiful monastery is also renowned because the poet Gustavo Adolfo Béquec and his brother Valeriano stayed here between November 1863 and October 1864 so that Gustavo got over his serious disease. The poet wrote the famous “ Letters from my cell ” during his stay in the monastery.

If tourists are interested in knowing more about this historic monastery, they are allowed to wander around the monastery. Moreover they might come across interesting artwork. By the way, the cistercian monks left this abbey in 1835; after that, in the mid 19th century it become a hotel where a lot of tourists spent their summers. Besides, the Jesuit monks stayed in this monastery nearly one century; and finally, in 1998 the property of the monastery passed to La Diputación de Zaragoza ( Country Counsil ) which maintains it in excellent state of preservation.

People enjoy visiting Verula’s Monastery and its outanding natural landscape, imagining themselves for some moments back in the medieval period, it can be a unique experience.

It is 75 km away from Zaragoza, 12 km from Tarazona and 15 km from Borja.

More places to visit in Aragon

– What to see in Zaragoza city: With almost 700,000 inhabitants, Zaragoza (Saragossa) is one of the biggest cities of Spain. Its strategical location between Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia and Bilbao, and its proximity to The Pyrenees and France, make Zaragoza one of the most important logistic points of Spain.

– Tarazona: Tarazona is situated in the Queiles valley at the foot of the majestic Moncayo massif, in an outstanding natural landscape of exceptional beauty in the western Aragón.

– Huesca and The Pyrenees.

Alma del Ebro / The Soul of the Ebro sculpture (Zaragoza)

May 17, 2014Saragossa / Zaragoza, Streets and monumentsjulia

Alma del Ebro sculpture (The Soul of the Ebro) is a white sculpture made especially for the International Exhibition in Zaragoza (Expo 2008 Zaragoza), which was held from 14th of June to 14th of September 2008.

Located in front of the Congress Palace (Palacio de Congresos) in the Lucas Miret Rodriguez Square, near the Ebro River, the monument sculpture was created by the world-renowned sculptor Jaume Plensa born in Barcelona in 1955.

The Alma del Ebro measures about 11 meters in height, 8.50 meters in width and 8.40 meters in length being hollow inside. Moreover, the sculpture was made with big letters of stainless steel and it is shaped like a human figure where visitors can go into and look outside through its letters.

Ebro is the name of the river that goes across Zaragoza and borders all the area where the Expo 2008 Zaragoza was hosted.

By the way, it is said that it cost more than 1,000,000 euros, however, it was worth buying.

People interested in art should not miss out on this impressive sculpture.

More related places to visit in Zaragoza

– Expo Zaragoza 2008: In this article we talk about the more significant places to visit in the Expo Zone, near the Ebro River.

– The best places to see in Zaragoza city: Read here all about what are the best places to visit in this city. Ideal to know what to see in Zaragoza in a holiday weekend.

– El Pilar: Pilar Cathedral is one of the most popular monuments in Zaragoza, and it’s placed in the centre of the city, near the Ebro river and in the same square than La Seo Cathedral.

– Aljafería Palace: This Palace is the most visited historic site in Zaragoza. The medieval islamic palace was built by Muslims on the banks of the river Ebro in the 11th century.

Two-days tour in Saragossa: What to visit in Zaragoza city

February 3, 2014Saragossa / Zaragoza, Tours and GuidesJorge

With almost 700,000 inhabitants, Zaragoza (Saragossa) is one of the biggest cities of Spain. Its strategical location between Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia and Bilbao, and its proximity to The Pyrenees and France, make Zaragoza one of the most important logistic points of Spain. Also, its size (not too big, not too small) and its mild climate (except for the wind) make Zaragoza one of the best places to live in the country.

But Zaragoza is not only a place to live, it’s also a city which has a lot of activity and history, ideal for visiting it in a weekend. The main monuments of Zaragoza are the following ones: Pilar Square (Plaza del Pilar), The Pilar Basilica-Cathedral, La Seo Cathedral, The Roman ruins and museums, La Aljaferia Palace, La Lonja, Torre del agua and Expo 2008 Zone and many more places to discover.

Here we are going to propose you two routes for visiting most of the main places of the city in a weekend:

Day 1: La Aljaferia Palace, Expo 2008 Zone, Rio Ebro (The Ebro River), Muralla romana (The Roman wall), El Pilar, La Seo, Casco Viejo (The Old Town), Plaza España

– The Aljafería Palace (La Aljafería): A must for all tourists that arrive in Saragossa is to visit the stunning Aljaferia Palace.

The Aljaferia Palace is really the most visited historic site in Zaragoza. This medieval islamic palace was built by muslims on the banks of the river Ebro in the 11th century. Abu Ya far Ahmad, known as Al-Muqtadir, king of Saraqusta ordered its construction and it was called Qasr al -Surur (The Joy Palace) .

– Zaragoza Expo 2008: In summer 2008, Zaragoza received the international exposition Expo Zaragoza 2008, which was placed aside the shore of the Ebro River. The buildings, squares and structures were situated from the city center, behind the Pilar Basilic to Delicias Intermodal Station, the main train and bus station of the city. Currently, the Expo Zone is open to all the visitors who want to see the area and enjoy its activities.

Check the map of the Expo Zone here (click on it to see the map bigger):

– The Aquarium of Zaragoza (optional): The aquarium of Zaragoza is the biggest fluvial aquarium of Europe. It is located inside the Expo zone, near the pavilions.

As a recommendation, at the top floor of the aquarium there is a cafeteria with a viewer point to see the Ebro river, the Expo Zone and the centre of the city.

– The Park of the water (Parque del agua) (optional): Currently this is the wider park of Zaragoza. It was built simultaneously with the Expo 08 zone.

Inside The Park of the water, you will find a lot of green areas and activities: A lake with boats, An artificial beach with swimming pools, a whitewater channel, a golf camp, horses and many more (including the famous skyscraper: La torre del agua).

– The Ebro River and its bridges (Rio Ebro): You can walk from the Expo zone to the Pilar Cathedral bordering the Ebro river. The walk can last around 20 to 30 minutes, depending on your speed.

By bordering the Ebro river, you will see the next bridges: Puente del tercer milenio (near Torre del agua and Parque del agua), The Bridge-Pavillion and the The bridge of the volunteers (in the Expo zone), Puente de hierro (The iron bridge, near Plaza Europa), Puente de Santiago (cross it to arrive at El Pilar, the roman wall and the Old town), Puente de piedra (the oldest one, built between 1336 and 1437, and located behind the Pilar Basilica), Puente de La Almozara and Puente de la Unión.

– The ruins of the roman wall (Murallas romanas): Close to the Santiago Bridge and beside the Pilar Square are placed the ruins of the Roman Wall of Zaragoza. Don’t miss them!

– The Main Market (Mercado Central) (optional): The market of Zaragoza is located in front of the Roman Walls. Its building was built in 1895 and is considered as a national monument.

– The Pilar cathedral / Basílica del Pilar: The Our Lady of the Pilar Basilica-Cathedral in Zaragoza popularly is the main attraction in Zaragoza city.

It is not only a meeting point with the tourists and citizens because its beautiful building and its artworks but also its absolute devotion to the Virgin of the Pilar, so called because the image of the Virgin is on a pillar (columna).

– Pilar Square (Plaza del Pilar): The Pilar cathedral is placed in the centre of the city at Pilar Square. This square is the main and biggest square in Zaragoza.

Activities are organized in there the whole year, and the square is considered to be as the most important point of the city because it is surrounded by the Town Hall, The Old Centre and some of the most important monuments as El pilar, La seo, La lonja, The Roman wall or El Foro museum of Caesaraugusta.

– La Seo Cathedral: Saint Salvador Cathedral, commonly called La Seo, was built on the site of the great mosque aljama of Zaragoza between 12th and 16th centuries. Being rebuilt, reformed, improved and widened during these centuries, the present Cathedral has Romanesque, Mudéjar, Gothic, Baroque architectural styles which can really be seen outside the Cathedral, although its most important treasures are inside La Seo de Salvador.

– The Old Town (Casco Viejo) and Spain Square (Plaza España): To arrive at Spain Square (located at Independence Avenue) from the Pilar Square, you can walk along Alfonso Street (Calle Alfonso), which is always full of people.

The Old Town of Zaragoza is famous for its museums, its gastronomy (above all at “El Tubo” zone, where the people go to eat tapas). Also, some of the Nigth life of the city can be done in the Old Town, which is full of bars and discotheques.

Day 2: Parque grande (The main park), La Romareda (Football Stadium), Plaza San Francisco, Gran Via Avenue, Plaza Paraiso, Puerta del Carmen, Plaza Aragón, Paseo Independencia, Plaza Aragón

– The Main Park of Zaragoza (Parque grande): The Main Park of Zaragoza is placed at the beginning of Fernando el Católico Avenue, near the Romareda Football Stadium, and the university campus. The park was built between 1913 and 1927, and it was inaugurated in 1929, since then it has been improved many times. Currently it measures more than forty hectares, it has around 15 fountains, a botanic garden, a view point, many terraces, paths and statues, a swimming pool (for summer) and many more activities to do.

– La Torre de la Cámara de Comercio: At the entrance of the Main Park you will see this tower – lighthouse. It was built in 1940 as an icon of the progress of the city.

– La Romareda football stadium (Estadio de futbol de la Romareda): In La Romareda football stadium plays the Real Zaragoza Football team. This stadium is located alonside the music auditorium of Zaragoza and the lighthouse.

– The Music Auditorium (Auditorio de Zaragoza):

– San Francisco Square (Plaza San Francisco) (optional): Walking from the entrance of the Main Park (Parque Grande) through Fernando el Católico Avenue (in the tram direction) you will arrive at Plaza San Francisco, another meeting point of the city, above of all among the young people.

If you don’t want to visit this square nor the university campus, you can get on the tram (Line 1) from Parque Grande to Gran Via. 🙂

– The University Campus (Ciudad Universitaria) (optional): Currently the University of Zaragoza is divided in three zones: The headquarters at Paraninfo building (we will see later), the Ebro campus at Actur neighborhood an the San Francisco Campus -the traditional one-. These tree zones are connected with the tram.

– Gran Via Avenue: Once passed the cross with Goya Avenue, Fernando El Católico Avenue changes its name to Gran Via Avenue. of Saragossa is one of the most important streets of the city. By walking through it wides sidewalks you will arrive at Paraiso Square (at the beginning of Paseo Independencia).

– Paraiso Square (Plaza Paraiso) and Paraninfo Building (headquarters of the University of Zaragoza):

– Puerta del Carmen (optional): This gate was built in 1789. It is higtly popular among the citizens because it was a crucial defense place at the First Siege of Zaragoza (1808), when the French Army tried to conquest the city and the country.

– Paseo Independencia: Indepedence Avenue is the main street of Zaragoza. Beginning at the end of Gran Via Avenue, the avenue runs from Plaza Paraiso all the way to Plaza Aragón and ends at Plaza España, in the Old Town of the city.

In Paseo Independencia and its surroundings you will find the commercial centre of the city, with a lot of small shops, commercial centers, cafes, restaurants, cinemas and bars.

– Aragon Square (Plaza Aragón): In the middle of Paseo Independencia it’s located Aragon Square, and in the center of it, it’s the Aragon Justice Monument (Monumento al Justicia de Aragón).

Day 3 (extra): Choose one option…

As it’s impossible to visit the whole city in two days, we suggest here some other plans to see that we haven’t included in our route.

– Museums: Zaragoza has many museums. Here you have some of them:

Roman museums: Museo de las Termas Públicas (San Juan Street, number 3), Museo del Puerto Fluvial (San Bruno Square), El Foro (La Seo Square) and The Roman Teather / Teatro de Caesaraugusta (San Jorge Square, number 12). All of them in the old town or in the city centre.

Other museums and expositions centers: Pablo Gargallo (San Felipe Square, at the Old Town), Museo de Zaragoza (Los Sitios Square), Pablo Serrano (Maria Agustin Avenue).

– The Aragonese Pyrenees (Los Pirineos): In summer, many people camp in the Pyrenees for discovering its mountains, rivers and lakes, and for practicing sports in this environment. In winter, the Pyrenees ski stations are some of the most frequented places of Spain to ski.

– Other places to visit near Zaragoza city: Teruel, Huesca, Calatayud, Monasterio de Piedra, Jaca, Pamplona.

How to arrive at Zaragoza

Visitors of other countries can arrive at Zaragoza by airplane to the Zaragoza Airport. Visitors from other cities can come here by bus or by train to Delicias Intermodal Station.

– Delicias train and bus station (Estación intermodal de Delicias):

Read also our post with the best cities of Spain, and the list with the most visited monuments of Spain.

La Seo del Salvador / Salvador Cathedral (Zaragoza)

January 30, 2014Emblematic buildings, Saragossa / Zaragozajulia

In December 2001, Salvador Cathedral (popularly, La Seo), in Zaragoza was declared a World of Heritage site by UNESCO as one of the most representative Mudéjar architecture of Aragón. Besides, this remarkable Cathedral has more than enough artworks to be a must-see place. Therefore, La Seo del Salvador welcomes visitors from all over of the world who want to explore its interesting Cathedral.

Salvador Cathedral in Saragossa (Catedral del Salvador de Zaragoza) commonly called La Seo, was built on the site of the great mosque aljama of Saraqusta (Saragossa) between 12th and 16th centuries. Being rebuilt, reformed, improved and widened during these centuries, the present Cathedral has Romanesque, Mudéjar, Gothic, Baroque architectural styles which can really be seen outside the Cathedral, although its most important treasures are inside La Seo del Salvador.

La Seo: History of its construction

On the 18th December 1118, Alfonso I of Aragón known as The Batallador (1073-1134 ) conquered Saragossa and the Mezquita Blanca ( White Mosque) of Saraqusta (Saragossa), which had been built in the 8th century by the Muslims, was converted into the first Cathedral in Saragossa. During the 12th century a new Romanesque building of three naves was constructed on part of the mosque, and the minaret of the mosque was converted into the bell tower of Salvador Cathedral. However, only two beautiful Romanesque apses remain as a symbol of that temple currently.

In 1318 the diocese of Saragossa became archdiocese and Don Pedro López de Luna who was the first archbishop of Saragossa ordered to built the new Mudéjar Cathedral on part of the old mosque and of the dark Romanesque building, In fact, some interesting remains of this building can be seen in La Seo, By the way, it is said that the minaret of the mosque is covered by the current baroque bell tower and the west facade of the Mudéjar building is behind of the present baroque facade.

Don Lope Fernandez de Luna archbishop of Saragossa, who was a significant benefactor of the Aragonese Mudéjar art, ordered to build the first dome of the Cathedral and the San Miguel Chapel also known as the Parroquieta in Mudéjar style. Situating next to La Seo and of its apses the Parroquieta was built between 1374 and 1381, and its outstanding north wall was decorated with rajolas (bricks), aljez (gypsum), colorful glassed ceramic tiles and colorful aliceres (tiny pieces of tiles) in its finer Mudéjar art . Inside the chapel is the beautiful tomb of Don Lope Fernandez de Luna, its unbelievable wooden techumbre (ceiling), its original arrimadero (ceramic tiles on its walls) and its crypt. It is worth a visit.

Don Pedro Martinez de Luna, Benedico XIII also known as el Papa Luna (Pope Benedict XIII) (1328- 1423) was other great benefactor of the Mudéjar art in the Cathedral and ordered Mahoma Rami, a renown architect and prestigious maestro, to built the second dome in La Seo because the first one had been knocked down. Unfortunately this second dome was also knocked down and the current dome was built in 16th century in Mudéjar style in a way very similar to the second one.

Don Alonso de Aragón, archbishop of Saragossa (1470-1520) ( son of king Fernando II of Aragón 1452-1516) was other great benefactor of the Cathedral, he added two naves to La Seo among other many things.

Don Hernando de Aragón archbishop of Saragossa (1498-1575) (son of Alonso de Aragón and grandson of King Fernando II) ,who was other significant benefactor of La Seo Cathedral, ordered to built the impressive San Bernardo chapel between 1550 and 1557 a masterpiece where are the tombs of Don Hernando and his mother. Do not leave La Seo without staring this chapel carefully.

Visiting La Seo Cathedral (Zaragoza)

Nowadays, inside La Seo visitors will be spellbound when they can see in the main nave the magnificent Gothic altarpiece, a masterpiece of alabaster that is considered to be the best of Europe. Its sculptural artwork was begun about 1434 and took about 50 years to made it. Visitors can not miss out on this chance.

Visitors should not leave La Seo without seeing the choir stalls, the organ, Saint Bruno and Virgen Blanca chapels among other things. On the other hand, La Seo has been witnessed of many important events in the life of Aragón. Besides, La Seo was the coronation Cathedral since 12th to 16th centuries, and has been the final resting place for many archbishops and special people for years.

Taking a stroll along Saint Bruno square bordering La Seo, walkers can enjoy the stunning Mudéjar wall and apses, besides, they can also see and discover the interesting Dean arch and other interesting buildings.

People interested in culture should visit the Tapestries museum (Museo de Tapices) which is considered to be unique in the world, the tapestries date between 14th and 17th centuries. In La Seo Square is also the Diocesano museum a interesting way to know the religious art. Both museums are worth a visit. Perhaps, people would like to visit the Foro museum in the same square, it is about history and Roman ancient time in Saragossa.

By the way, La Seo is located in the Cathedrals square or in La Seo Square (the Seo square and the Pilar square both of them are joined together, so it is also called the Cathedrals square) is the first Cathedral of Saragossa with five naves because the Pilar Cathedral of three naves is the second Cathedral of Saragossa.

To add, the tickets to visit La Seo are very cheap.

More touristic places to visit in Zaragoza

– Pilar Square and Pilar Cathedral: The Pilar Cathedral (Basilica del Pilar) is the most famous icon of Zaragoza. This cathedral is placed in the centre of the city, near the Ebro river and in the same square than “La Seo” Cathedral.

– La Aljafería (The Aljafería Palace): A must for all tourists that arrive in Saragossa is to visit the stunning Aljaferia Palace, which is really the most visited historic site in Saragossa. This medieval Islamic palace was built by Muslims on the banks of the river Ebro in the 11th century.

– The Expo 2008 Zone: In summer 2008, Saragossa received the international exposition Expo Zaragoza 2008, which was placed aside the shore of the Ebro River. Currently, the Expo Zone is open to all the visitors who want to see the area and enjoy its activities.

– Parque Grande: It has more than 15 fountains, a botanic garden, balconies, many terraces, paths and statues, a swimming pool and many more activities to do.

– Paseo Independencia (Independence Avenue): The main street of Zaragoza. Beginning at the end of Gran Via, the avenue runs from Plaza Paraiso all the way to Plaza España.

The best places in Spain

A guide to visit Spain, written by Spaniards

Category Archives: Aragón

Monasterio de Piedra (Stone Monastery), Nuévalos (Zaragoza)

Monasterio de Piedra: Buildings

Monasterio de Piedra: Natural Park

Monasterio de Piedra: Hotel

More places to visit in Zaragoza Province

San Pablo Church (Iglesia de San Pablo) Zaragoza

More places to visit in Zaragoza (Aragón, Spain)

Pilar Square, Saragossa (Plaza del Pilar de Zaragoza)

Pilar Square and The two Cathedrals

La Lonja and The City Hall

Fountains, Roman Wall, The Market and other remarkable buildings

More places to visit in Zaragoza (Aragón, Spain)

What to visit in Tarazona city (Zaragoza, Aragón)

More places to visit in Aragon

Monastery of Veruela, Vera de Moncayo (Aragón)

What to see in Veruela’s Monastery

More places to visit in Aragon

Alma del Ebro / The Soul of the Ebro sculpture (Zaragoza)

More related places to visit in Zaragoza

Two-days tour in Saragossa: What to visit in Zaragoza city

Day 1: La Aljaferia Palace, Expo 2008 Zone, Rio Ebro (The Ebro River), Muralla romana (The Roman wall), El Pilar, La Seo, Casco Viejo (The Old Town), Plaza España

Day 2: Parque grande (The main park), La Romareda (Football Stadium), Plaza San Francisco, Gran Via Avenue, Plaza Paraiso, Puerta del Carmen, Plaza Aragón, Paseo Independencia, Plaza Aragón

Day 3 (extra): Choose one option…

How to arrive at Zaragoza

La Seo del Salvador / Salvador Cathedral (Zaragoza)

La Seo: History of its construction

Visiting La Seo Cathedral (Zaragoza)

More touristic places to visit in Zaragoza