What to see in the region of Calatayud
What to see in the region of Calatayud
Its enormous heritage, its Mudejar art, its Goya paintings, its dreamlike nature, its archaeology, its spas, its rich gastronomy and its strategic position on the map are the ingredients that make up this great tourist attraction. Wrapped on the water of the Jalón River, from the horizon you can already glimpse its history and strong cultural mix.
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The traces of Christian, Jewish and Islamic culture are reflected in the Mudejar artistic manifestations that are still present today.
The archaeological site of Bílbilis, the tower and cloister of the collegiate church of Santa María La Mayor, the parish church of Santa Tecla, in Cervera de la Cañada, and the Church of Santa María, in Tobed, the last three of which have been declared World Heritage Sites by UNESCO, contribute to the refinement and historical value of the entire region.
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But the wisdom that radiates from the corners of this Aragonese space is also enhanced by the impressive castles it hides.
In addition to those of Berdejo and Ayud, there is the Ariza Castle, also known as Palafox Castle, considered one of the most important fortresses of Al-Andalus during the Almoravid period. Honoring the name of the region, the “kingdom of bricks”, these buildings were erected on this material by Mudejar masters. Its use is due to the mission they were entrusted with: to fortify the border of the region with Castile in the middle of the Reconquest.
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Wines from the Calatayud DO, chickpeas with conger eel, fardel -a typical product of this area- and the classic Aragonese veal can be found in the multitude of establishments that make up the region, in addition to many other Aragonese products.
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Enveloped by the architecture and the aroma of the most traditional and homemade Aragonese cuisine, the icing on the cake is relaxation. At all times of the year and especially in this one, the Aragonese region becomes the favorite destination for lovers of thermal tourism. The ocher leaves falling from the trees, those reddish tones highlighting the flora make the natural thermal lake of the Termas Pallarés Spa, with its water at 32º, make bathing a delight for the five senses.
Another option is the Balneario de Alhama de Aragón, located in this town, the one in Paracuellos de Jiloca or the three in the town of Jaraba: Sicilia, Serón and Balneario de la Virgen. Thus, it is these thermal waters, together with the gastronomy elaborated based on the affection and professionalism of its people and the rich cultural and patromonial offer, which make Calatayud a unique region.