This city on Spain’s Ebro River blends Roman, Islamic, and Christian heritage in a compact old town anchored by one of the country’s most important pilgrimage basilicas.
Why Visit Zaragoza
The Basilica del Pilar, an immense baroque church on the banks of the Ebro River, holds deep significance as one of Spain’s most important Marian pilgrimage sites and is said to house the country’s first Christian altar. The Aljaferia Palace, a rare surviving example of Islamic Taifa era architecture, reflects Zaragoza’s centuries under Moorish rule before the Christian reconquest. As the birthplace of Francisco Goya, the city’s museums hold significant works by the painter alongside a well preserved Roman theater beneath its modern streets.
Top Experiences
- Basilica del Pilar: A vast baroque basilica on the Ebro River, one of Spain’s most significant pilgrimage sites.
- Aljaferia Palace: A rare surviving Islamic Taifa era palace, later used by Christian monarchs.
- Roman Theatre of Zaragoza: Well preserved Roman ruins beneath the modern city, with an on site museum.
- Goya Museum: A museum dedicated to Francisco Goya, who was born in the Zaragoza region.
Book these experiences and more through guided tours from Zaragoza.
Discover the two cathedrals of Zaragoza, the Seo and the Pilar
Practical Tips
- The Basilica del Pilar’s dome frescoes were painted in part by Goya, worth looking up during your visit.
- Zaragoza sits roughly midway between Madrid and Barcelona, making it an easy high speed rail stopover.
- October’s Fiestas del Pilar is the city’s biggest festival, expect large crowds and lively celebrations.
FAQ
Why is the Basilica del Pilar important?
It is one of the most significant Marian pilgrimage sites in Spain, believed to house the country’s earliest Christian altar and visited by pilgrims from across the Spanish speaking world.
Is Zaragoza worth a stopover between Madrid and Barcelona?
Yes, it sits roughly halfway between both cities on the high speed rail line, making it convenient to break up the journey with a day of sightseeing.
What is the Aljaferia Palace?
It is a well preserved Islamic era palace from the 11th century Taifa period, later expanded by Christian monarchs, and now used partly as Aragon’s regional parliament.
Write Your Review
No reviews yet. Be the first to share your experience!