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Aljafería Palace, Zaragoza

Calle de los Diputados, Zaragoza, Aragón

Description

The Aljafería Palace is a fortified medieval palace in Zaragoza that currently houses the regional parliament (Cortes) of Aragon, Spain. It is one of the largest and best-preserved examples of Mudéjar architecture (mix of Spanish and Islamic), having been built in the 11th century during Al-Andalus' taifas period with arabesques and yeserias (carved or molded stucco and plaster). After the reconquest of the city in the 12th century, it became the residence of the Christian kings of the Kingdom of Aragón. It was converted into a military fortress in the late 16th century, hence some of the Renaissance features and important restoration work took place in the second half of the 20th century (the exterior façade for example). Highlights include the decorated archways, the courtyard of San Isabel, and the various halls with their decorated roofs.

Access & Transport

The palace is 2km northwest of the city centre (Plaza Aragón tram station and Goya train station) and 2km west to the historical district of Zaragoza. Several bus lines stop on Av. de Madrid, next to the complex, and the Portillo train station (C1 and regional lines) is a 5mins' walk away.

Instructions & Recommendations

There are several guided visits (mostly in Spanish) most days of the week so you may want to check the timings before heading there. We suggest combining this visit with either the Pablo Serrano Museum (IAACC) or the Fluvial Aquarium.

Meta review

Consistently described and rated as one of the highlights of Zaragoza, online reviewers also qualify it of 'unmissable'. They marvel at the well-renovated exterior and refined interior decoration, especially the sections in Mudejar style. Many visitors strongly suggest attending one of the free guided tours but the audioguide also seem to do a good job of sharing relevant information. The main practical downside relates to the car park and the route from the city centre that are not well signalled.

Environmental & Social

No environmental data available - considered marginally negative (electricity consumption) Helps preserve the city's historical, artistic and architectural heritages

Conclusion

The Aljafería Palace is an important monument of Zaragoza, both historically and architecturally. The palace section may feel empty but there is plenty to take in across the various halls and courtyards and the renovations have been, overall, quite well carried out. Recommended even for those without strong cultural inclinations.

Key positive

Unmissable structure and an important part of the city's history

Gorgeous Mudejar decorations

Inexpensive entrance fee

Key negative

None

Suitability

Accessible to visitors with reduced mobility

About this Rating

TYPE

Desktop

RESEARCHED IN

Updated in September 2023

PROVIDER

Koreval

Included Items
None
Timing
Duration of visit
Closed on 25 Dec and 01 Jan and when the Aragon Parliament is in session there

av. transport time:0h 25m

est. visit time:2h

Regulated hours

Start of Season 1:Apr, 01

Season 1 / Period 1

MONDAY10:00 - 14:00

TUESDAY10:00 - 14:00

WEDNESDAY10:00 - 14:00

THURSDAY10:00 - 14:00

FRIDAY10:00 - 14:00

SATURDAY10:00 - 14:00

SUNDAY10:00 - 14:00

Season 1 / Period 2

MONDAY16:30 - 20:00

TUESDAY16:30 - 20:00

WEDNESDAY16:30 - 20:00

THURSDAY16:30 - 20:00

FRIDAY16:30 - 20:00

SATURDAY16:30 - 20:00

SUNDAY16:30 - 20:00

Start of Season 2:Nov, 01

Season 2 / Period 1

MONDAY10:00 - 14:00

TUESDAY10:00 - 14:00

WEDNESDAY10:00 - 14:00

THURSDAY10:00 - 14:00

FRIDAY10:00 - 14:00

SATURDAY10:00 - 14:00

SUNDAY10:00 - 14:00

Season 2 / Period 2

MONDAY16:00 - 18:30

TUESDAY16:00 - 18:30

WEDNESDAY16:00 - 18:30

THURSDAY16:00 - 18:30

FRIDAY16:00 - 18:30

SATURDAY16:00 - 18:30

SUNDAY -

Pricing
Age band
Age band
Regular price / pers.
Group price / pers.
Senior
65 - 99
€1
4
Adult
12 - 64
€5
4
Child
3 - 11
€0
0
Infant
0 - 2
€0
0
Price for students is 1€

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