Things to do in Zaragoza

No. 1 of Best Things to Do in Aragon

Cathedral-Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar

Cathedral-Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar stands on the Plaza of Our Lady of the Pillar by the Ebro River in Zaragoza and is a well-known Catholic pilgrimage site dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Legend has it that in 40 AD, the Virgin Mary appeared to the Apostle Saint James on the banks of the Ebro River, leaving behind a jasper pillar as a sign. In Spanish, "Pilar" means "pillar," which is where the church gets its name. This jasper pillar is still housed today in the Holy Chapel on the river-facing side of the church's east end, with a small 15th-century gilded wooden statue of the Virgin Mary enshrined at its top. The Holy Chapel was designed by the 18th-century architect Ventura Rodríguez and is considered one of the masterpieces of Spanish Baroque architecture. The current church is in the Baroque style, and the construction of its domes and towers spanned nearly 300 years. The 11 domes, covered in green, yellow, blue, and white glazed tiles, and the 4 tall towers create a distinct silhouette when viewed from the opposite bank of the river, and have long been a symbol of the city of Zaragoza.

No. 2 of Best Things to Do in Aragon

Aljafería Palace

Aljafería Palace is located in the heart of Zaragoza. It was built in the 11th century. The palace still retains remnants of its defensive sections. Aljafería Palace is a rectangular palace featuring several circular towers, with the exception of the Troubadour Tower (Torreón del Trovador), which is rectangular. Many rooms are arranged around an open-air courtyard. The plaster-decorated ceilings are a highlight. It currently serves as the seat of the Cortes of Aragon.

Parque Grande Jose Antonio Labordeta

is one of the larger city parks in Zaragoza, blending natural views, historical sites, and cultural activities, and has become a popular leisure destination for locals and tourists alike. The park was built in the early 20th century and was named in honor of the Aragon singer José Antonio Labordeta. The park is shaded by trees and features many winding paths, perfect for walking, running, and cycling. Along the way, you can admire exquisite fountains, sculptures, and monuments, such as the statue of Alfonso I and the monument commemorating the 1908 Spanish-French Exhibition. In addition, the park features a bandstand, a botanical garden, and a children's play area, and regularly hosts cultural events and exhibitions, enriching the visitor experience. Whether you want to get close to nature or experience the local culture, this is an ideal destination.

No. 3 of Best Things to Do in Aragon

Plaza of Our Lady of the Pillar

Plaza del Pilar (Plaza of Our Lady of the Pillar), located south of the Río Ebro, is a large square in the old town of Zaragoza. It can accommodate 500 people, is named after the Cathedral-Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar located on the square, and is affectionately known as the living room of the city of Zaragoza. It is also often called Cathedral Square (Plaza de las Catedrales). The two cathedrals of Zaragoza, the Cathedral of the Savior of Zaragoza and the Cathedral-Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar, are both located here. The square also features many important buildings and historic monuments, such as the 16th-century Renaissance-style La Lonja and the cenotaph of the painter Francisco Goya.

Aragonia

Puente de Piedra

The Puente de Piedra spanning the Río Ebro in Zaragoza is one of the earlier stone bridges built here. As early as the 12th century, the residents of Zaragoza wanted to build a bridge over the river, and they finally realized their dream in the first half of the 15th century. The bridge was built under the guidance of Gil de Menestral. During the flood of 1643, the floodwaters destroyed two sections in the middle of the bridge, and in 1659, the bridge was rebuilt by architect Felipe de Busignac, who also reinforced the piers. This Puente de Piedra is also known as the Lion Bridge because there are 4 mighty bronze lions standing on the 4 stone pillars at both ends of the bridge.

Auditorio de Zaragoza

Ilusiona Zaragoza

Aquarium River of Zaragoza

This attraction is a well-known river aquarium in Europe. It covers a vast area and has freshwater species from all over the world. It brings together aquatic animals from five major rivers, including the Nile, Mekong, Amazon, Murray-Darling and Ebro, with a total of more than 5,000, covering more than 350 different species. Walking into the aquarium, it feels like being in a wonderful river world. In 70 carefully designed fish tanks, various fish swim freely, showing their unique beauty and vitality. Whether it is colorful tropical fish or large freshwater fish, you can find them here. In addition to the rich fish display, Zaragoza Aquarium also focuses on the experience and interaction of visitors. Participants can observe these magical creatures up close and feel the wonder and mystery of nature. This is not only a good place to watch fish, but also a good place to understand river ecology and learn biological knowledge.

Puerta del Carmen

The Gate of Carmen is a city gate located in Zaragoza, Spain. In 1908, it was declared a historical and cultural heritage.