Calatayud offers several perspectives on history and landscape: Mudéjar architecture can be seen in its churches and collegiate church, while the Islamic fortified complex of five castles is a subject in its own right. There are also viewpoints, trails along the Jalón and the Hoces del Jalón, home to protected colonies of birds of prey. Plan your explorations according to whether you are most interested in architectural history, city views or nature.
Mudéjar Architecture and Churches in Calatayud
The Colegiata de Santa María la Mayor preserves a Mudéjar cloister, as well as the lower sections of its apse and tower. These elements were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001. The history of the Colegiata began in 1120, when Alfonso I the Battler conquered Calatayud and consecrated the former mosque as a Christian temple. The Museo de la Colegiata de Santa María is designed as a permanent exhibition of the collegiate church’s significant movable cultural heritage. It occupies the cloister’s four wings, as well as the old and new chapter-house buildings. Check opening arrangements before visiting.
Other churches also make their own architectural mark. The Iglesia de San Andrés is considered an outstanding example of Aragonese Mudéjar art: its 35-metre-high tower has an octagonal floor plan and is richly decorated with prominent brickwork. The Iglesia de San Pedro de los Francos is located in the historic centre and is protected as a Bien de Interés Cultural. Built in the 14th century, its Mudéjar structure comprises three naves, tall pillars, ribbed vaults and a triple apse.
The Santuario de la Virgen de la Peña was built over the remains of the Castillo de la Peña. It preserves Mudéjar elements from the original building and Baroque elements from later restorations. Located at one of Calatayud’s higher elevations, the sanctuary offers panoramic views of the city, the Jalón Valley and the surrounding Sierras. Visibility can vary depending on conditions.
Fortified Complex and Guided Tours
The date 862 AD is recorded for Calatayud’s Islamic fortified complex. It consists of five castles linked by long walls with towers and is considered the oldest surviving medieval fortification system on the Iberian Peninsula. The Mirador de la Torre Mocha offers another perspective on the site: a path runs through the walled grounds, two viewpoints look out over the fortified complex, and a small interpretation centre is also dedicated to the site. Check local access arrangements before visiting.
Calatayud’s official tourism service offers guided tours of the historic complex. These include, among other sites, Santa María, Plaza de España, San Pedro de los Francos and San Juan el Real with the Jesuit complex. For groups of more than 20 people, Bilbilis and the Archaeological Museum may also be included in the tour. Check the schedule and tour conditions in advance. Admission to the Bilbilis archaeological site is free; visits by arrangement are organised by the Calatayud Tourist Information Office.
Jalón Landscapes and Trails
The Hoces del Jalón are home to protected colonies of griffon vultures, Egyptian vultures, peregrine falcons, eagle owls and various species of eagle. This biodiversity gives the gorge a distinctive natural character, though individual sightings cannot be guaranteed.
Two trail descriptions take you through different landscapes along the Jalón. One walking trail starts in Parque de Margarita, on the riverbank, passes through fertile huertas known as “Anchada” and reaches the area near the municipal cemetery. Another trail starts at the exhibition grounds on the banks of the Jalón and runs through orchards, past fruit trees and poplar groves. Choosing between the two trails is also a matter of landscape: fertile huertas at “Anchada” or orchards and poplar groves.
Wine and Regional Cuisine
The wineries on the Ruta del Vino Calatayud offer winery tours, wine tastings and vineyard visits. Possible experiences also include spending a day working as a winemaker. Check which wineries and activities are participating before your trip.
The regional cuisine of the Ebro Valley includes borage and sweet onions. Roast lamb may be served with breadcrumbs cooked in grape juice. These culinary notes refer to the Ebro Valley and place the dishes in a broader regional context.
Discover more destinations: Villarroya de la Sierra, San Mateo De Gállego, Pintano, Longares, Gallur, Berrueco, Almonacid De La Cuba, Bijuesca.
For the higher-level travel overview: Zaragoza.
