Discover the most beautiful places to visit in Zaragoza
A majestic city that reflects its history in architecture
Zaragoza is the capital of the Autonomous Community of Aragon, and one of the most beautiful cities in Spain, with historic buildings that give it a special aura, which are among the best places to visit in Zaragoza.
This beautiful city is located in a privileged strategic point, which is why several cultures decided to settle here ; like the Romans, Arabs and Jews, who at different times in history, built little by little, the city that we can appreciate today.
Top 10 of the best places to visit in Zaragoza
1. Aljaferia Palace
The history of this ancient Muslim palace dates back to the 9th century AD, when they built the Torre del Trovador, which can still be visited; although it was in the 11th century AD, when they built the Aljafería Palace.
In the 12th century, the Christians managed to reconquer Zaragoza, so this palace was refurbished under medieval Catholic standards.
The last stage of the Aljafería Palace corresponds to the 16th century, when it was expanded by the Catholic Monarchs, making this structure their residence.
Later, it had military uses, however, today you can visit the palace, where you will learn about these three crucial periods in the history of Zaragoza, either on a guided tour or on your own.
The Aljafería Palace is not only one of the places to visit in Zaragoza, but it is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
2. The Roman Walls of Zaragoza
If you travel to the city for a short time, and you wonder, what to visit in Zaragoza in two days?, the remains of its Roman walls are a good option.
A little over 2,000 years ago, the Roman Emperor Augustus was the founder of the city of Zaragoza, which once it was founded, built a wall almost 3 kilometers long, of which some remains survive today.
The longest section of the Roman wall is located on Avenida Cesar Augusta, which is 80 meters long.
Near the Monasteries of the Resurrection another small section is located, and in the vicinity of El Tubo, another small part of this vestige of Roman times.
3. Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar
Wherever you look from, the Basilica of Our Lady of Pilar is one of the most important places in the city, and one of the most important temples dedicated to the Virgin Mary in the world.
On the outside, the imposing structure stands out, with its long towers and domes; while inside, the combination of ornamental elements give a touch of majesty, in each of the parts of this basilica.
This temple has a peculiarity, and that is to house a fresco created by Francisco de Goya, where despite his youth, he already excelled in magnificence and genius, which accompanied him throughout his life.
4. Stone Bridge
Another of the essential places to visit in Zaragoza in two days is, without a doubt, its old Stone Bridge, which dates back to the 15th century.
Located over the Ebro river, this bridge is the oldest in the city, which also witnessed the Spanish uprising in arms, when they were invaded by the Napoleonic hosts at the beginning of the 19th century.
Some interesting elements that can be seen on the bridge are four lions located on both sides of the bridge, this symbolic animal being the emblem of the city.
On the other hand, the Cross of Basilio located in the center of the Stone Bridge is a reminder of all those who perished during the Napoleonic invasion of the city.
5. Caesaraugusta Theater Museum
The Roman era has an important element, and it is the construction of large buildings, being an example of this time this beautiful Roman theater.
It was erected in the 1st century AD, named in honor of the Roman Emperor, and had a capacity of 6,000 people, who came to this arena to enjoy the best shows of those days.
Currently, the theater also works as a museum, and both the stage and the stands can be visited; where you will receive information about the Roman history of Zaragoza, theatrical genres, etc.
Knowing and visiting the Caesaraugusta Theater Museum is an excellent option to learn about the Roman past of the city of Zaragoza.
6. Pillar Square
The Plaza del Pilar in Zaragoza is one of the nerve centers of the city, a place where locals gather for their celebrations, and where the two most important temples are located.
One of these temples is the Basilica del Pilar, the other is the Cathedral of Zaragoza, called the Seo del Salvador in its Epiphany.
Apart from this peculiarity, the Plaza del Pilar is the largest in all of Europe.
7. Dean's Arch
A curious place to visit in Zaragoza is the Arco del Deán, located in a neighborhood with a medieval aspect; which has in this arch, one of its most important attractions.
Currently, many tourists come here to take pictures ; however, in the 13th century when it was built, it was the home of the Dean of the Cathedral of La Seo.
It is located behind the Cathedral of La Seo, being the only house from this period that is not palatial, and that has survived to our times.
8. Charterhouse of Aula Dei
The magnificence of this monastery, where you will appreciate great works of art, make the Cartuja del Aula Dei one of the best places to visit in Zaragoza.
To go to the Cartuja del Aula Dei it is necessary to take into account that they only receive visits on Saturdays, under the auspices of a guide, who will tell you everything related to the history of the temple, along with its artistic works.
The most outstanding elements of the Cartuja del Aula Dei are the following:
The baroque portal of the church.
The central nave.
The main altarpiece.
The chapter house.
the cloister
9. Imperial Canal of Aragon
One of the greatest engineering works of the 18th century is the Imperial Canal of Aragon, being one of the best things to see and do in Zaragoza.
Walking or taking an excursion through this canal is a rewarding experience, since you will walk through a fluvial space full of history; which also has great beauty, both natural and due to the human works that you will appreciate around it.
Some of the main points of the Canal Imperial de Aragón are the following:
The Bocal.
White House.
The Walls of Gisén.
10. Goya Museum
Francisco de Goya was born in a town near Zaragoza in 1746, in a family from this city.
Zaragoza represented for Goya, one of the most intense creative periods of his life, where there are still numerous works to appreciate, in this beautiful Spanish city.
Several of his artistic works, such as oil paintings or engravings, are protected in this museum, which has been in operation since 1979.
In addition to the works of Francisco de Goya, in the museum you will be able to appreciate several paintings by other Spanish artists.
We have reached the end of this installment, where we got to know one of the most beautiful, important and historic cities in Spain; so that you are clear, which are the best places to visit in Zaragoza.