Aljafería Palace, Zaragoza
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Aljafería Palace - by Turol Jones (CC BY 2.0)
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.
Environmental & Social
No environmental data available - considered marginally negative (electricity consumption) Part of 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 for visitors with reduced mobility
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
August 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 25m
est. visit time:2h
Start of Season 1:Apr, 01
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
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
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
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 -