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Calatayud town, Aragon

Plaza Joaquin Costa, Calatayud, Aragón

Description

Calatayud is a town with a strong historical and archaeological heritage, its area having been settled during Roman times in the nearby site of Bilbilis. Its name originates from the Arabic and many of its monuments bear the imprint of Mudejar architecture. Highlights include the 16th century Collegiate Church of Santa Maria Maggiore and its Mudejar tower built on an old mosque, the Calatayud Museum where many archaeological pieces / artefacts from the site are exhibited, the Royal Collegiate Church of the Holy Sepulchre (HQ of that order in Spain), the Arab fortified enclosure with the remnants of the castle (Ayyub), and the Royal Collegiate Church of the Holy Sepulchre.

Access & Transport

The town is 85km southwest of Zaragoza on the A-2 and 240km northeast of Madrid. From those towns it is a short AVE train ride of 25mins and 55mins, respectively

Instructions & Recommendations

Make sure to include a visit of Augusta Bilbilis, only 6km out of town.

Meta review

The Royal Collegiate Church of the Holy Sepulchre seems to be the most popular monument in town, impressing people with its richly decorated interior. From a cultural standpoint though, the main draw is Bilbilis, just outside of town followed by the Ayyub, the castle dominating the city. It is possible to hike there from downtown and enjoy panoramic views.

Environmental & Social

The main activities in the city have a low carbon footprint. Tourism is a welcome injection of activity and revenues in the local economy

Conclusion

A town with plenty to see but nothing ultimately very original for Aragon, so we think it is best recommended for archaeological buffs (for nearby Bilbilis) or anybody based in Zaragoza.

Key positive

Mix of religious and historical sights

Not busy with tourists

Connected by high-speed train to Madrid and Zaragoza

Key negative

Plenty to explore but not a regional must-see

Suitability

No restrictions but the archaeological sites nearby may not be accessible for visitors with reduced mobility

About this Rating

TYPE

Desktop

RESEARCHED IN

August 2024

PROVIDER

Koreval

Included Items
None
Timing
Duration of visit

av. transport time:1h

est. visit time:3h

Sunlight based

Sunrise / early morningOk

MorningOk

Lunch timeOk

AfternoonOk

Sunset / eveningOk

Night – bef. midnightNo

Night – aft. midnightNo

Pricing
Free

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