Zaragoza City Guide
The capital of Aragon and located between Barcelona and Madrid, Zaragoza dates back to the Roman era and was subsequently settled by the Arabs and then the Aragonese. As a result Zaragoza has a fascinating blend of architecture and with its river setting is a beautiful destination to visit.
What to do and see in and around Zaragoza
Cathedral of San Salvador
The Cathedral of San Salvador also known as the La Seo del Salvador is a perfect blend of the influences of Aragon and started as a Mosque when Zaragoza was Muslim. It was then replaced by a Romanesque Cathedral in the 12th century, before finally being rebuilt in the Gothic style in the early 14th century.
Basilica of Our Lady of the Pilar
This elegant and vast Basilica which sits on the banks of the river Ebro is a beautiful example of Aragonese Baroque Art. Inside is the image of Our Lady of the Pilar, after whom the Basilica is named. Of particular interest are the vaults surrounding the Holy Chapel which were painted by the famous Arogonese artist Francisco de Goya.
Expo Zaragoza
Expo Zaragoza which runs from 14th June – 14th September and is centred around the theme of “Water and Sustainable Development” will see the unveiling of three new buildings: the Water Tower, the River Aquarium and the Bridge Pavilion.
Aljaferia
Now home to the Government of Aragon this commanding Moorish palace is a fascinating reminder of how Zaragoza once was. The ceiling of the Throne Room is particularly spectacular with its intricate Mudejar carpentery.
Carmen Gate
This Neo-classical gate dates back to 1789 and was built as an entrance to the city. The gate now looks a bit bereft standing as it does in the middle of a roundabout but it still serves as a wonderful reminder of Zaragoza’s past.
Primo de Rivera Park
An oasis of calm in the middle of the city, Primo de Rivera Park with its landscaped gardens, pretty flowerbeds and elegant fountain is the perfect place to relax with a coffee from one of the many cafés, in between sightseeing.
Roman Public Baths Museum
This fascinating museum displays artifacts from the Roman colony of Caesaraugusta. Amongst the exhibits on show are the remains of the toilets and the foundations of the hot baths.
Museo de Zaragoza
Built in 1909 for a Spanish-French exposition the Museo de Zaragoza contains archeological artifacts from the Prehistoric period to the Muslim era as well as paintings by Goya and ceramics, coins and medals dating from the 12th century.
Plaza de los Sitios (Monument to the Sieges)
The elegant Monument to the Sieges stands in the middle of the Plaza de los Sitios, built by Agustin Querol in 1908 in memory of the Peninsular War.
Roman Walls
The Roman colony of Caesaraugusta was surrounded by a wall, remains of this wall, which dates back to the 3rd century and was built from limestone can be found dotted around Zaragoza.
La Lonja
This rectangular building which was built between 1541 – 1551 as a trading forum is a beautiful canvas of different architectural styles such as the Gothic frieze around the inside of the interior, the Florentine Palace style of the exterior and the decorative vaults and windows.
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