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The city was founded in 24 BC. by the Romans and until 380 AD. had the status of a colony of Caesaraugusta, from which the modern name came.
Zaragoza is the capital autonomy of Aragon in Spain and a relatively large city in comparison with other settlements in the region. For 2012 in it officially 670,000 people lived, as well as up to thirty thousand illegal immigrants. On the today Zaragoza is the fifth largest city in Spain. He located at an altitude of about 200 meters above sea level and about halfway between Barcelona and Madrid. However, in essence it is a calm provincial town, with its own ancient history, hospitable people and well-developed infrastructure.
The beautiful city of Zaragoza, however, does not have as many attractions as Madrid, Barcelona or Valencia. Of course, there are ancient buildings here, as a result of constantly ongoing excavations, more and more new artifacts are discovered, but, unfortunately, this does not have the desired effect on the city's attendance by visitors.
Business Zaragoza
Zaragoza is serious the industrial center of Spain with branches of the largest European companies. You can also find modern architecture in the city. Here, in 2008, from June 14 to September 14, the world exhibition EXPO 2008 was held, dedicated to the topic of water and its shortage on the planet. For this event, a giant complex with many interesting buildings was built in Zaragoza and a funicular was installed. Having driven on it, you can see the entire complex from a height in half an hour and appreciate the architectural thought of its creators. This adds up to their pleasant, rhythmic, simple life, in which each year is similar to the previous one.
Ordinary people of Zaragoza
Nice people live in Zaragoza, not spoiled by the resort atmosphere of the coasts. For the most part, residents are involved in the work of local heavy industry enterprises, work according to a work schedule, receive a salary, and visit shopping centers with their children on weekends. From this, their pleasant, rhythmic, monotonous routine is formed from year to year. Restaurants have low prices with good quality food, shops provide a sufficient modern range of basic goods at an appropriate price. This is a good city for a measured quiet life of the middle class for people who are not going to conquer the world in the near future and become the bigwigs of European business.
Old town and tours of Zaragoza
The historical part of Zaragoza is small, like the whole city. You can get around historical monuments and see the sights in an hour and a half. More will take about two days.
The Ebra River flows through the city, which later, already on the territory of Catalonia, will spill into a wide delta, providing moisture for the world-famous protected lands there. From the point of view of a city visitor looking for entertainment and spectacles, it will be difficult to find something to do in Zaragoza for more than two days. Although, if you decide to hide from world popularity and quietly grow old in the Spanish province, getting a job as a manager at a nearby factory where low-budget models of Opel cars are assembled, then Zaragoza is perfect place.
The capital of the Autonomous Region of Aragon, Zaragoza is located in the northeast of Spain, in the middle reaches of the Ebro River. Zaragoza is an ancient city founded by the Romans before our era. The name comes from the transformed name of the Roman settlement Colonia Caesaraugusta ("Colony of Emperor Augustus"). The city is surrounded by mountains, so frosts, unusual for Spanish cities, are not uncommon in winter.
Attractions around Zaragoza Cathedral Square
Around Plaza de Catedrales, otherwise called Plaza del Pilar, are the main attractions of Zaragoza.
One of the most beautiful Christian churches in Spain overlooks the Cathedral Square - Basilica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar, considered the first religious building dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Strictly speaking, this can be called the first building on this site.
Once in the year 40, the distributor of Christianity in Spain, St. Jacob. The Mother of God, sitting on a column (pilar), descended to him, gave him a miniature wooden figurine with her own image, and ordered to build a church in her honor. In the II century. a chapel appeared on this site. In the XII century. it was replaced by a Romanesque church that burned down in a fire in the 15th century. The next, Gothic, church was replaced by the current pearl of the Baroque - the Basilica of Our Lady of Pilar, built in the 17th-18th centuries. Its last two towers, 92 meters high, were erected already in the 20th century.
Basilica of Nuestra Señora del Pilar
During the civil war, three bombs fell on the church, but none of them exploded. Two of them can be seen inside the basilica. The majestic basilica with four towers and 11 domes is 130 meters long and 67 meters wide. The smaller domes are lined with azulejos ceramic tiles.
In the eastern part of the temple, in Capilla Santa, there is the same jasper column, on top of which is the statuette of the Virgin Mary with the Child mentioned above. Her clothes are changed every day. She is crowned with a precious crown. The interior of the temple was painted by the famous artist Francisco Goya, who was born near Zaragoza. The frescoes "Queen of the Martyrs" and "Glorification of the Name of the Lord" stand out. Noteworthy are the alabaster sculptures of the altar, made by Damian Forment. They have been preserved from the previous church building. The plots are dedicated to the earthly life of the Virgin Mary.
The Basilica is the second most popular pilgrimage site in Spain. Every autumn week preceding October 12, it becomes the center of a feast in honor of Our Lady of Pilar, the patroness of the city. There is a museum at the basilica, where, in particular, the decorations of the statue of Pilar are exhibited - crowns, diadems, several hundred mantles, and Goya's drawings.
The basilica is open for free visits from 7 to 20:30 (on Sunday - until 21:30). The museum is open daily, except Sunday, from 10:00 to 18:00 (on Saturday - until 14) with a break at 14:00-16:00. The entrance ticket costs 2 EUR. A fee of 3 EUR is charged for visiting the observation deck on one of the towers. You can go up there by elevator daily, except Friday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.-8 p.m. with a break of 2 p.m. You can get to the basilica by city buses No. 22 and 23.
Cathedral of San Salvador in Zaragoza
Zaragoza is one of the few cities that has two cathedrals that share the status of a cathedral. In addition to the Basilica of Nuestra Señora del Pilar, this status has a cathedral Catedral del Salvador en su Epifanía, also called La Seo or the Cathedral of the Savior for short. The cathedrals are located a three-minute walk from each other, and overlook the same Plaza de Catedrales. La Seo is part of the world heritage site Arquitectura mudéjar de Aragón.
On the site of the current Cathedral of the Epiphany of the Savior in ancient times there was a Roman forum. After the conquest of Zaragoza by the Moors, the main mosque of the existing Islamic state was located here. Its fragments were discovered during the restoration of the cathedral at the end of the 20th century. After the expulsion of the Moors in the 12th century, the mosque became a Christian church, however, it did not last long. It was destroyed and a new stone Romanesque cathedral was built. Two apses and several altar sculptures have survived from it to this day.
Cathedral of San Salvador
In the XIII-XIV centuries. the coronation, baptism, wedding and funeral of the Aragonese monarchs took place in this cathedral. In the XIV century, after the formation of the autonomous Archbishopric of Zaragoza, the cathedral began to expand. In addition to the Gothic central naves with stained-glass windows, a dome and an impressive facade of the entrance from the street appeared. la Pabostría in Mudéjar style. In the XV century. the collapsed dome was replaced with a new one in the form of a papal tiara. In the next century, instead of Mudéjar, a baroque bell tower appeared. Changes in subsequent centuries were minor.
The current Cathedral of the Savior has several entrances. The first- from the side of the neoclassical western facade (in the photo - to the left of the bell tower),
second- from the side of the most beautiful facade in the style of Mudéjar st. la Pabostria,
and third entrance of st. Bartholomew from the eastern facade, through which tourists enter.
The modern cathedral is a five-nave church with six spans and rib vaults. The dome above the crossroads combines Mudéjar, Gothic and Renaissance ornamentation. The two-level Dome consists of a lower rectangular and an upper octagonal part. In the niches of the domed drum there are statues of Aragonese saints.
The first floor of the four-storey 90 m high baroque bell tower is made of stone, while the rest are made of brick. The second and third floors are decorated with allegorical figures made of limestone. Interestingly, the Italian architect who designed the bell tower never visited Zaragoza.
Gothic dominates in the interior of the cathedral. First of all, the massive main altar, made of alabaster in the middle of the 15th century, is almost the best in Europe.
Mudéjar interior elements are interspersed in the predominant Gothic style. They are, in particular, in the dome and gilded roof. 28 cathedral chapels are decorated in three architectural styles. Apart from those already mentioned, this is a renaissance. Chapels compete with each other in beauty.
As is customary in Spanish churches, a Gothic choir with 117 seats is located in the center of the cathedral. The decorative bronze lattice of the choirs is decorated with sculptures of Jesus and the apostles Peter and Paul, made in the 18th century.
The door of the eastern facade leads to the sacristy of the cathedral. Its walls are decorated with paintings by Spanish artists. There is also a painting by Rubens - "The Judgment of Solomon". In the reliquary, a golden tabernacle stands out, which took 218 kg of this noble metal.
In the Chapter Hall operates Museo de Tapices- a collection of 63 Flemish tapestries and six heraldic embroideries, one of the three best collections in the world. The oldest tapestries date from the 15th century.
Entrance to the cathedral is free. It can be visited daily, except Monday, from 10 am to 2 pm (on Saturday until 1 pm, and on Sunday until 12 pm) and from 4 pm to 6 pm.
Fountain of the Hispanidad in Zaragoza
In the center of the Plaza de Catedrales is the famous fountain built for the 500th anniversary of the discovery of America by Columbus. The collection of 23 Spanish-speaking countries with a population of 400 million is called Hispanidad. The structure is more like a waterfall than a fountain. A map of Latin America is laid out on its surface. From the northern part of the complex hydraulic structure, powerful water flows rush down into the lower part of the reservoir, the contours of which repeat the continental ones.
Fountain of Hispanidad
The Fuente de la Hispanidad composition also includes three marble slabs located near the fountain, symbolizing the Columbus ships that reached America, and a large stone globe with its map according to medieval ideas.
On the same square there is an original sculptural composition of the monument to Francisco Goya and the frequent characters of his paintings - majo (majo) and maja (maja). Some tourists who take pictures next to them consider them to be separate urban sculptures.
Monument to Francisco Goya and his characters
Art lovers are well aware of two famous paintings by the artist - "Naked Maja" and "Clothed Maja", written at the very end of the 18th century. By that time, mahi meant simply Spanish townswomen. And initially, majos men and majas women were called arrogant and cocky dandies from the common people, in every possible way striving to stand out from the crowd not only with songs and dances. Both those and others had knives with them, sometimes even being used during a stormy public showdown. It was these characters that the Catalan sculptor Frederic Mares, the author of Monumento a Goya, depicted.
Ironically, by 1770 "Machaism" had become a craze in Spanish aristocratic circles. Over time, maja has become synonymous with Spanish flu.
Museum of the Roman Forum
In ancient times, Zaragoza was a prominent Roman settlement. During archaeological excavations, the ruins of the Roman forum, theater, baths and port were discovered. On the site of the forum in the current area of La Seo operates. Mini-museums are also organized at other Roman sites.
The modern entrance to the underground Museo del Foro Romano creates a certain architectural dissonance with the nearby La Seo Cathedral. But inside the underground museum is quite interesting. Near each object are its layouts, recreating the appearance of Roman times. Streets, walls of houses, sewer pipes are guessed.
Museum of the Roman Forum (Museo del Foro Romano)
Address: Plaza de la Seo 2. The museum is open daily, except Mondays, at 10-14 and 17-20 (except Sundays). The cost of a ticket giving the right to visit the other mini-museums mentioned above is 4 EUR.
Other sights of the city
Several architectural structures from the Moorish period of history in Zaragoza are included in the UNESCO heritage site Arquitectura mudéjar de Aragón. The most notable of them is the well-preserved castle-fortress Palacio de la Aljaferia.
Built in the 11th century. the palace of the caliph of the Muslim emirate of Zaragoza after the Reconquista (expulsion of the Arabs) served the Christian rulers of Aragon, then the Inquisition. After the restoration of the second half of the XX century. the palace houses the Aragonese parliament, court and museum.
Castle-fortress Aljaferia (Palacio de la Aljafería)
The oldest part of the building is the only rectangular tower of the Troubadour, widely known for the Verdi opera of the same name. In the Middle Ages, it was used as a place of confinement. Some fragments of the five-level tower were built in the 9th century. - long before the palace.
Outwardly, the harsh contours of the palace hide an impressive interior. Inside the Aljaferia Palace, the Moorish Golden and Throne Halls, vaults with stone carvings depicting the coats of arms of Aragon and Castile, a Gothic staircase with alabaster railings leading to the royal chambers, Moorish panels in the hall of St. Isabella. Particularly striking is the carved ceiling of the Throne Room with gilded pine cones.
Palacio de la Aljafería interior (interior)
Church of San Pablo in Zaragoza
An integral part of the above heritage site is and . The church of San Pablo is even unofficially called the "third cathedral of Zaragoza". The church in a mixed Gothic and Mudéjar style was built at the turn of the 13th-14th centuries, after which it was repeatedly expanded and rebuilt. To the originally single-nave church in the XIV century. a Mudéjar-style bell tower was added, and in the next century, two side aisles. Then chapels were added on the right side.
Church of San Pablo
On the tympanum of the Gothic portal, Christ is depicted sitting between the Virgin Mary and Saints John and Blaise (the patron saint of Zaragoza). On the door of the portal is a bas-relief of the apostles Peter and Paul. The visible part of the 66-meter octagonal bell tower with vaulted windows and arches is decorated in the Mudéjar style.
In the interior of the church, attention is drawn to the altarpiece of the main altar, made in the 16th century. Damian Forment of gilded wood and embossed silver, a 17th-century tabernacle adorned with precious stones, and a 15th-century organ.
The church is located in the center of the historic district at 42 San Pablo. During the high season, the church is open from Monday to Saturday at 9-12:30 and 18:30-20:30, and in the low season from 9-12:30 and 18: 00–19:30. Opening hours on Sundays and holidays are 9–13:45 and 18:00–19:30–20:30.
Museum of Zaragoza
It is located in a beautiful building of the pavilion built for the World Exhibition of 1908.
The exposition of the main building of the Museum of Zaragoza is divided into archeology and fine arts.
The first section presents archaeological finds covering the period from Roman times to Moorish rule. Here, in particular, you can see artifacts found near the walls of the Aljaferia. The most valuable exhibits are a fragment of a mosaic depicting Orpheus, which adorned a Roman villa of the 2nd-3rd centuries, and a bust of Emperor Augustus of the 1st-2nd centuries. Also of interest are the alabaster sculpture of the guardian angel of Saranosa of the 16th century, and the icon of the Madonna and Child of the 16th century.
The art section displays paintings from the 12th century. to the present day. Of particular interest are Gothic paintings and a separate room with numerous works by the great Spanish artist Francisco Goya. The Museo de Zaragoza also includes sections of ethnography and ceramics, located in two mansions of the Parque Grande José Antonio Labordeta park.
Address of the main building: Plaza de los Sitios, 6. The museum can be visited free of charge daily, except for Mondays, at 10-14 and, except for Sundays, at 17-20.
Francisco Goya Museum in Zaragoza
In 1979, a private collector, Professor Aznar, donated his collection of paintings by Francisco Goya to the state. The private collection was housed in a beautiful 16th-century mansion. - the house of Jeronimo Cosida. Since 2015, the museum has been supervised by the Ibercaja Foundation for the protection of cultural heritage. Today's Museo Goya–Colección Ibercaja- at the same time the leading Aragonese center for the study of the work of the great Spanish artist.
Francisco Goya Museum (Museo Goya–Colección Ibercaja)
In the exposition of the museum you can see the paintings of the famous artist and his contemporaries. Of particular value, of course, are paintings, drawings and engravings by Goya. Modern information materials provide visitors with detailed information about the three hundred works of the artist in Spanish, English and French.
Address: Calle de Espoz y Mina, 23 (in the city center, 10 minutes walk from La Seo Cathedral). Opening hours - daily, except Monday, at 10-14 and at 17-21 (except Sunday), the ticket costs 4 EUR, with an audio guide - 5, and with a tablet - 6 EUR. On the second Sunday of the month, admission is free.
A stone bridge
225 m long across the Ebro River, built in the 15th century, it was partially destroyed by the flood of 1643, but then restored. In the XVIII century. defensive fortifications were built on the banks of the Ebro to prevent new flooding.
In 1906, a tram was launched over the bridge (later the tram lines were dismantled). Two years later, the bridge was expanded on both sides with pedestrian crossings. Since 1991, four bronze figures of lions have been installed at the entrance and exit - the symbols of Zaragoza, in connection with which the bridge began to be called the Lion.
Park Grande José Antonio Labordeta in Zaragoza
The most beautiful urban park in the south of Zaragoza was designed at the beginning of the 20th century. on the initiative of the city council with the participation of the former Spanish dictator Primo de Rivera, after whom it was named. In 2010, after the death of a Spanish politician, poet and singer and native of Zaragoza, the park began to be called.
Park Grande José Antonio Labordeta (Parque Grande José Antonio Labordeta)
On the main avenue of the Paseo de San Sebastian park, reminiscent of Versailles with its fountains and gardens, there is a grandiose monument to Alfonso I the Warrior, who liberated Spain from Moorish rule. The monument was erected in honor of the 800th anniversary of this event.
Monument to Alfonso I the Warrior
As noted above, the park's two mansions house two branches of the Zaragoza Museum. On the territory of the park there is a city botanical garden, founded in the 18th century. In 1928, on the centenary of Goya's death, the Rincon de Goya pavilion was built in the park, intended for his museum. There are many monuments and busts of famous Spaniards in the park. The surfaces of some benches are lined with beautiful tiled mosaics.
Conclusion
The sights of Zaragoza, especially both cathedrals, are impressive even after visiting Barcelona and Madrid. And it shows how the inhabitants of the city know how to have fun.
Where half a million people live. Industry is well developed in this modern city. The distant and recent past are closely connected with the present day, time and people are interconnected here. Zaragoza is the city where the great and famous Goya lived. His first masterpieces were created in this place. The distinctive features of Zaragoza are its low massive buildings, which are connected by long columns. Every year, many tourists come to Zaragoza to experience the unusual atmosphere.
What to see in Zaragoza
The most delightful architectural landmark of the city is the Basilica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar, this building is located in the very center of the city. Due to its unique location, the building is a favorite place for local residents. After all, a beautiful river flows nearby, and its ancient architectural style looks great with giant domes and towers. From a distance, this high-rise building resembles a magnificent historic lighthouse, making it a special historical heritage. This is where tourists like to take pictures. By the way, in the first place the city in terms of population is Madrid.
At the monastery of Piedra is a natural park. To diversify the trip to historical places, you can go to quiet and remote places. The park at the monastery is considered one of the amazing places that help to get an unforgettable experience while traveling. Parque de Piedra is rich in magnificent waterfalls, numerous lakes and rivers. To enjoy such a landscape, you can visit a gourmet restaurant, or stay in the resort center. The center of Zaragoza has historical and unique structures that have a long history.
Prices in Zaragoza
The cuisine of Zaragoza is famous throughout Spain. When you come here, you should definitely try the local dishes. Roasted young lamb, cod with eggs and garlic, as well as many other dishes, you will be offered in the restaurants of Zaragoza. At the same time, the average cost of a hearty dinner per person will be from 30 to 60 euros. Tapas bars or snack bars are very popular in this city, most of them are located in the Old Town. Seafood dishes can be tasted in Cassa de Mar, this place is a favorite place for locals, in addition, the prices here are reasonable.
Another real attraction in Zaragoza is shopping. Although this is not Milan, there are many worthy places here. The best shops are located on the streets of Cadiz, Isaac Peral, San Ignacio de Layola. If you want to find more inexpensive shops, then it is better to go to Alfonso and Don Jaime Street. At the same time, souvenirs are sold in the Anktikvarios store, they can be purchased at affordable prices. Most shops are open late. And in winter and summer, sales begin. During the discount period, you can buy a lot of different goods, so tourists arrive in Zaragoza more often in summer and winter.
Zaragoza in history
The history of Zaragoza is described on many pages. Before the Roman troops, Iberian tribes lived here, it was they who built the city of Emperor Augustus. After the Romans, the Arabs visited Zaragoza. And only in the 8th century the city was conquered by Christians. In 1035, the kingdom of Aragon gained independence. Initially, Zaragoza was the capital of this kingdom. And not just because the city is located in an excellent geographical position. It is remote from most major cities at a distance of three hundred kilometers. Therefore, the city was a tasty morsel for many conquerors.
The heroic history of Zaragoza developed after the invasion of Napoleon. Because the inhabitants of Zaragoza put up excellent resistance to the Napoleonic army, so this city became famous throughout Europe. A bright period of its history is the siege of the city. A memorial dedicated to the fallen soldiers became a monument to this history. After all, the city was recaptured, and the victory was won. Zaragoza witnessed the wedding of the royal couple Ferdinand and Isabella. Thanks to this marriage, Spain was created from the kingdoms of Castile and Aragon. The rich heritage of Zaragoza has left an imprint on the culture and life of the modern life of the city.
Tourist excursions
Guests of Zaragoza enjoy a variety of spectacles and entertainment. Since the Mediterranean Sea is a bit far from the city, not many tourists come here. However, tourists and locals, tired of the hectic life of the metropolis and the bustle of the resort, go to the sea coast. A special atmosphere reigns here, the inhabitants are distinguished by their sociability.
The main holiday of Zaragoza is the El Pilar festival, in other words, bullfighting. And in the Easter week, theatrical processions take place in the city. The King of Spain can be seen during the Independence Day military parade.
How to get to Zaragoza
Unfortunately, there are no direct flights from Russia to Zaragoza, so you first need to get to Barcelona or Madrid by car, bus or train. At the same time, there are no special inconveniences or problems with vehicles. The station "Delicias" receives buses and trains from around the world. The city center can be reached in ten minutes by shuttle bus or taxi. Russian airlines offer tickets to Spain on regular and charter flights. Ticket prices vary depending on the time of year.
The high-speed AVE train will take you from Madrid or Barcelona to Zaragoza in an hour and a half. It is noteworthy that if you book tickets in advance, discounts of up to 60 percent are provided. The cheapest option to get to Zaragoza is the ALSA bus, although this is not very convenient. Fifteen flights leave from Barcelona and Madrid every day, the journey time is about four hours. Thanks to the quality roads in Spain, traveling by car is very convenient. In this case, the main thing is to prepare a map so as not to get lost. The best highways from Barcelona are the AP-68 and AP-2, while from Madrid it is preferable to take the A-2 highway.
Entertainment
The capital of Aragon is called the city of four cultures, each of which left its masterpieces. Therefore, no one will be bored. In addition, Zaragoza is rich in interesting entertainment, where everyone can choose a vacation to their liking. If you are not interested in historical sights, then you should go to modern recreation facilities. Various bars, clubs and discos are open to tourists, which work throughout the night. Thanks to seasonal sales, entertainment activities include shopping tours, as well as outdoor activities in local attractions.
Zaragoza Photos
river Ebro (Ebro)
The length of the river is 928 km, navigation is possible only at insignificant distances below Zaragoza.
As you can see, the water in the Ebro is crystal clear and transparent.
river Ebro (Ebro)
They tried to build a bridge over the Ebro River in Zaragoza since the 12th century. In 1401-40. the stone bridge was erected under the direction of Gil de Menestral. The flood of 1643 destroyed two central spans of the bridge. How the bridge looked after that can be seen in Martinez del Maso’s painting “View of Zaragoza”, written in 1647. In 1659, the bridge was restored, and the architect Felipe de Buzignac managed to completely restore the two destroyed towers and expand the water cuts.
The stone bridge is also called the Lion Bridge, as four lions rise on columns on both sides of the bridge. The lions mounted on the columns were cast in bronze in 1991 by the sculptor Francisco Rayo Lajos (1924-2007).
lions
From the bridge you can see the hallmark of Zaragoza - the Basilica of Our Lady of Pilar.
Stone Bridge (Puente de Piedra)
The Basilica of Our Lady of Pilar is a grandiose building. It is dominated by ten colored domes, a huge central dome, and four towers framing the building. R The dimensions of the temple are 130 by 65 m.
The cathedral was erected in memory of the miraculous vision of the Mother of God to Saint James in the year 40. The Apostle then preached in Spain, and the Mother of God appeared to him and presented a small statue of herself on a jasper column (pilare).
Soon a chapel was built on this site.
Basilica of Our Lady of Pilar
Well, in its modern baroque form, the basilica was built in 1681-86.
During the Civil War, 3 bombs fell on the cathedral, but none of them exploded. Two shells are still symbolically stored inside the basilica.
Basilica of Our Lady of Pilar
Alexey liked the way Aunt Galya pronounces the word "pilar" with a Spanish accent so much that from that day on he began to call all churches "pilars".
Basilica of Our Lady of Pilar
In 2007, a selection of 12 treasures of Spain was held on the Internet, and the basilica was included in this honorable list.
Basilica of Our Lady of Pilar
Unfortunately, it is forbidden to take pictures inside - I managed to take one picture and removed the camera. However, many of the group members continued to calmly take pictures, despite the replica of the guide. This is perhaps the only negative from our group, which I generally liked.
Inside, there really is something to see. Some of the vaults were painted by Francisco Goya.
Basilica of Our Lady of Pilar
The city council of Zaragoza is based in the town hall, next to the Pilar Basilica.
Town Hall (Casa Consistorial)
The entrance is framed by original sculptures.
Town Hall (Casa Consistorial)
During our stay, Spain chose the city that will be the European Capital of Culture 2016. Zaragoza was among the candidates. I’ll tell you more about the competition in a post about the winning city. By the way, we will be in this city the very next day.
Zaragoza
Pilar Square is the main square of the city. She appeared in the 16th century.
Until recently there were trees and a garden. But in 1980, a decision was made to build an underground parking lot and almost all the vegetation was removed from the square.
The last changes were made in the western part of the square. On the occasion of the 500th anniversary of the discovery of America, the Hispanidad waterfall and the globe in front of it were erected.
Pilar Square (Plaza del Pilar)
Hispanidad is a community of Spanish-speaking countries. It traditionally includes 23 countries with a population of about 400 million.
The waterfall fountain was made in 1991. Water flows from above into a split niche, symbolizing Latin America.
Behind the fountain is the church of St. John Panetes. It was built in 1725 in the Baroque style.
The 8-sided tower of the church has a slight slope.
Fountain of Hispanidad
Pilar Square is considered one of the largest pedestrian squares in Europe.
Pilar Square (Plaza del Pilar)
The area is used during holidays and concerts. It is also often chosen by strikers for their protests.
Pilar Square (Plaza del Pilar)
In the eastern part of the square there is a monument to Francisco Goya (1746-1828). The artist was born in Fuendetodos, 44 km from Zaragoza. Goya spent a significant part of his life in Zaragoza.
The author of the monument is the sculptor Frederic Mares (1893-1991).
Francisco Goya
Behind the monument to Goya is the Cathedral of the Savior. It is also simply called La Seo.
During Muslim times, there was a mosque here. After the expulsion of the Moors in 1118, the construction of a Christian church began.
The cathedral includes several architectural styles. So the bell tower was erected in the Baroque style in 1683-86. under the direction of the Italian architect Giovanni Battista Contini (1641-1723). Well, the neoclassical facade was completed in 1763-67.
Cathedral of the Savior
The city has more than 2 thousand years of history. It was founded in 14 BC. called Caezaraugusta in honor of Caesar Augustus. Over time, the name was transformed into Zaragoza.
Street Alfonso I (Calle de Alfonso I)
Well, fans of the Nosovsky-Fomenko New Chronology know that Zaragoza is a primordially Russian city, because Zaragoza = Tsarskiye Guzy = Tsar's Cossacks. Everything is obvious and elementary.
Cafe Zaragoza
In 1985, the museum of the sculptor Pablo Gargallo (1881-1934) was opened in Zaragoza. He spent most of his life in Barcelona and Paris, but was born in the province of Zaragoza, in the town of Maella.
One of his works "Eagle Shepherd" is installed in the center of the city. The poor shepherd barely fends off the eagle and does not expect the dog to attack from below.
The Eagle Shepherd
The city has a football team "Real Zaragoza". Their stadium "Romareda" is located in the southern part of the city.
Zaragoza has never been the champion of the country, the best result is 2nd place (1975). But 6 times won the Spanish Cup. The main success of Zaragoza took place so long ago - in 1995 they won the Cup Winners' Cup. Moreover, this victory against the London “Arsenal” was obtained by a curious goal. Regular time ended 1-1, and there were no goals in the added 30 minutes, but in the 121st minute the Zaragoza player M. Nayim scored the ball from the center of the field into the gates of D. Seaman.
Coso Street (Calle del Coso)
Zaragoza is the capital of the province of the same name. The provincial government adapted for itself the former palace of Count Sostago. This building was built in 1570-74.
The flag of the province is the George Cross with coat of arms. Saint George is the patron saint of this region.
Sostago Palace (Palacio de Sastago)
The province itself is part of the autonomy of Aragon. The population of Aragon is about 1.3 million people. Thus, more than half of the autonomy's population lives in Zaragoza.
+28 outside. This is perhaps the average temperature during our Spanish tour.
The central place in the Plaza de España is occupied by the monument to the martyrs of religion and homeland. The monument was erected in 1904 in honor of 18 Christian martyrs of the 4th century. and the defenders of Zaragoza from the Napoleonic conquest of 1808-09. The author of the work is the architect Ricardo Magdalena (1849-1910).
At the top of the monument is an angel with a cross, and at the foot is a female figure personifying Zaragoza.
Plaza of Spain (Plaza de Espana)
The lion is the giraldic symbol of the city. It is present both on the flag and on the coat of arms.
Pharmacy
A native of Zaragoza, Eduardo Jimeno Correas (1869-1947) was a pioneer of Spanish cinema.
Eduardo Jimeno Correas
Another important person is the engineer Manuel Lorenzo Pardo (1881-1953). His main merit is the construction of the Zaragoza dam and the creation of the Ebro reservoir. It is symbolic that the bust is set in a niche with water.
Manuel Lorenzo Pardo
In Zaragoza, they did not forget about ordinary horses.
Pony
Also in the city there is the work of Briton Tony Cragg. For the first time I came across his work in the winter in Austria. But if in Salzburg I did not figure out what exactly the sculptor depicted, then a human profile is clearly visible here.
"Wild Relativity" (T.Cragg)
The main treasure of the Moorish period in Zaragoza is the Aljaferia Palace. Now here are the Cortes (Parliament) and the Legislative Chamber of Aragon.
After the collapse of the Caliphate of Cordoba, several independent small states arose, one of them was the tayfa of Zaragoza. The last ruler of Moorish Saragossa, Abd-al-Malik Imad ad-Daula, abdicated and recognized the superiority of Alfonso I of Aragon in 1118.
Aljaferia Palace (Palacio de la Aljaferia)
The oldest part of the fortress is the Troubadour Tower. Its two lower floors were built in the 9th century, and it was completed in the 10th century. The tower got its name much later - in the 19th century, when the Spaniard Antonio Garcia Gutierrez wrote the drama Il Trovatore, which took place in Aljaferia. Well, we know her better from the opera, which was created by Giuseppe Verdi in 1853.
Troubadour Tower (Torre del Trovador)
The palace had its own mosque. In the southeastern part there is a mihrab, a niche indicating the direction to Mecca.
mosque portal
The premises of the fortress, decorated in the Moorish style, were adapted for the palace of the Catholic kings in 1492. A polychrome panel has been preserved on the ceiling.
Aljaferia Palace (Palacio de la Aljaferia)
Perhaps the most beautiful place in the fortress is the patio of St. Isabella. It is named after the Infanta of Aragon, Isabella of Portugal (1271-1336).
In the visual arts, Isabella's attribute is a rose. According to legend, the king forbade Isabella to give alms to the poor. Once the queen carried bread in her hem to give it to the poor, but on the way she met her husband. "What's in there?" - he asked. The saint remembered his prohibition and lied: "Roses." "Show me!" - ordered the husband. Isabella unfolded the hem, and a miracle happened - there really were roses. Keogh and Copperfield would be jealous.
During the war with the Napoleonic troops, Aljaferia was damaged. The most famous work about the city is also associated with the siege of Zaragoza by the French. This is The Manuscript Found in Zaragoza, an unfinished novel by the Polish aristocrat Jan Potocki (1761-1815). Yang began writing the novel as early as 1797 and published chapters until his bizarre suicide, when he shot himself with a silver sugar bowl ball.
Yard of St. Isabella (Patio de Santa Isabel)
For the night we stayed at a hotel near the new station. I will tell you about this modern area when we are in Zaragoza for the second time.
Zaragoza is the fifth largest city in Spain. It is located approximately halfway between Barcelona and Madrid, but despite its proximity to the capital and a major tourist center, it has retained its provincial charm. There is a lot of ancient architecture in Zaragoza, excavations are still ongoing, and more and more new artifacts are periodically found.
Each of the cultures - Roman, Christian, Arab and Jewish - that once reigned in the city, contributed to the creation, development and development of the city as it is known today by 650,000 local residents and thousands of tourists from all over the world.
Any building in Zaragoza is actually a monument to a certain era, whether it is the Christian Cathedral of La Seo and the Basilica of El Pilar or the Arab Palace of Aljaferia - a masterpiece of Muslim culture.
But this is redundant
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How to get to Zaragoza
There are no direct flights from Russia to Zaragoza, but there is an international airport in the city. You can fly here with one or two transfers in Europe, the journey will take from 8.5 hours, including transfers, and will cost from 450 EUR round trip. The airport is located 12 km from the city center, buses No. 34 or No. 51 leave for the city every half hour, travel time is about 30 minutes, the fare is 1.85 EUR per passenger. The city can also be reached from Madrid or Barcelona by train, bus or car. All trains and buses arrive at Delicias station. From the station to the city center can be reached on city routes No. 34 or No. 51 or by taxi (10 min., about 10-12 EUR).
By train
From Madrid by AVE high speed train (1 h 18 min, EUR 40-55) or from Barcelona from Barcelona Sants station by AVE high speed train (1 h 27 min, EUR 35-55).
By bus
Zaragoza is less comfortable, but much cheaper to get on the ALSA bus. More than 15 buses depart daily from Madrid (3 hours 54 minutes, 21-35 EUR) and Barcelona (3 hours 44 minutes, 21-35 EUR).
By car
If you are traveling by car from Barcelona, then take the AP-2 and AP-68 highways (3 hours 12 minutes on the way), if from Madrid - the A2 highway (3 hours 15 minutes on the way).
Prices on the page are for September 2018.
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Zaragoza Hotels
Zaragoza is a popular city among tourists, so there are a lot of hotels of different price categories here. Most of the hotels are concentrated in the center, within walking distance of key city attractions. An inexpensive "three-ruble note" in the center can be rented for 35-50 EUR per day for a double room, prices for four-star hotels start from 75 EUR per day. A bed in a sparsely populated hostel will cost from 15-20 EUR per day.
Please note that the buildings in the city center are mostly old, this also applies to hotels, so most hotels do not have elevators and heating. Parking in the Old Town is also not easy: it either does not exist, or it is far from the hotel, or it is very expensive.
Just south of the city center is the Delicias area. There are more modern buildings, more parking options, accommodation prices are 15-20% lower, but you will have to walk to the main city attractions. The railway station and bus station are located in the same area.
To the west of the center are the districts of El Gancho and La Almozara, the sights are far from here on foot, but there is silence, green parks and views of the Erbo River. Prices for hotel accommodation start from 25 EUR per night for a double room.
shopping
Luxury brands in Zaragoza are worth looking for in the streets of Francisco de Vitoria, San Ignacio de Layola, Cadiz, Isaac Peral and Cadiz; more democratic shops are located on Don Jaime and Alfonso streets. There are many good shoe stores of local Spanish brands on Paseo de das Damas, the average price of a pair of shoes is 40-50 EUR. Almost all souvenir shops are concentrated in the town of Anktikvarios on the Plaza de San Brun.
The doors of most shops and shopping centers (Independencia, Puerta Synegia, El Corte Ingles) are open to visitors from 10:00 to 20:00-21:00. Winter sales last from the first week of January to the end of February, and summer sales - from July 1 to the end of August.
Behind the football stadium is the largest market in the city, where you can buy fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood, as well as jamon, cheese, olive oil and other Spanish delicacies.
Cuisine and restaurants in Zaragoza
Zaragoza cuisine is well known throughout Spain. Be sure to try the local dishes: cod with garlic and eggs (Bacalao al Ajoarriero), fried young lamb meat (Ternasco Asado), eggs with asparagus sauce (Huevos al Salmorejo), chicken with ham, tomatoes, onion and paprika sauce (Pollo al Chilindron).
In Zaragoza, you should go to tapas bars (from Spanish tapas - snacks). Most of them are concentrated in Casco Viejo - this is how the Old Town is called here. Visit the Calle de los mártires and the Taberna de Doña Casta for an excellent selection of snacks, mainly mushrooms, eggs, cheese and ham.
If you prefer seafood dishes, then the Casa de Mar on Eusebio Blasco Street is your favorite bar of the locals. Prices in catering establishments in Zaragoza are quite democratic. A glass of beer or wine will cost 2-3 EUR, a bottle of wine and 6-8 tapas will cost 22-25 EUR, and dinner in a good restaurant will cost about 40-50 EUR for two.
Service is already included in the check. However, tipping is customary in bars and restaurants, hotels and taxis. The size of the tip depends on the final bill and, as a rule, is 5-10% of the total amount for the service or order.
The best photos of Zaragoza
Entertainment and attractions of Zaragoza
It is best to start your acquaintance with Zaragoza from Plaza Cesar Augusto, where the remains of the ancient fortress wall have been preserved. This square adjoins another one, the most famous in the city, Plaza Pilar (Plaza del Pilar), it houses the main temple of Zaragoza - the Basilica of Nuestra Senora del Pilar (Basilica de Nuestra Senora del Pilar). The basilica is decorated with 11 domes, and its walls were painted by Francisco Goya himself, one of the most famous Spanish artists and a legend of Zaragoza.
The Gothic Cathedral of San Salvador, or simply Catedral de la Seo, is a Renaissance monument built on the site of a former mosque in the 14th century. It is one of the main religious buildings in the city and one of the most impressive buildings in the city. Many styles were mixed in the architecture of the cathedral: Romanesque, Gothic, Moorish, and Baroque. Of particular note is the northwestern facade, which was built by the Mudéjars (Moors who remained to live in Spain under Christian rule): it is lined with bricks, multi-colored tiles and is very elegant. The Cathedral houses the Tapestry Museum (Museo de Tapices).
Not far from the Plaza San Pedro Nolasco (Plaza San Pedro Nolasco) you can see the ruins of the Roman theater (Teatro Romano), a lot in Zaragoza left from the time of Arab domination. The Moors stopped ruling here in the 12th century, but until the 15th century the Arab community in Zaragoza was very influential, and its masons were true masters of their craft, so Moorish architecture was preserved here better than any other. One of the masterpieces of the Moorish style is the Aljaferia Palace, originally it was the residence of the Arab rulers, but after the expulsion of the Moors from Spain, the palace was "adapted" for the Catholic kings - a special throne room was created inside.
In the Old Town ("Casco Viejo"), pay attention to La Lonja - in the past the building of the exchange of the 16th century was built, and today it is the main exhibition center.
Museums
On the side of the northern facade of the Cathedral of Zaragoza, in Piazza San Bruno), at the former pier on the Ebro, there is the Museum of the River Port, which is located directly in the ruins of the river port of the Roman era. On the other side of the cathedral are other ruins - this time, the Roman public baths. A small Museum of Roman Baths is open there, you can visit both museums on one ticket.
Anyone can visit Zaragoza in absentia: an interactive 3-D city tour will surely inspire you to visit the capital of Aragon in person.
Average prices for entertainment in Zaragoza:
- cinema ticket - from 4 EUR to 6 EUR
- theater ticket - from 12 EUR to 30 EUR
- Opera or concert ticket - from 50 EUR to 100 EUR
Maps of Zaragoza
Festivals
The city's main celebration with performances, installations, animations and concerts is the El Pilar festival, which takes place annually during the week of October 12th. This is also the best time to watch bullfighting in Zaragoza.
Easter week in Zaragoza is a colorful theatrical procession in the city center, in which several hundred worshiping women dressed in black robes and men in hooded robes play drums.
