Aragon
· ES

Aragon

Aragon, Spain

Journey to the Heart of Aragon, Spain: Where History Echoes and Nature Thrills Aragon, nestled in the northeast corner of Spain, is a land where dramatic landscapes meet a rich tapestry of history and culture. Forget the…

#Aragon#Spain#historical#cultural#beautiful scenery
1/7
Stay & flyThings to doVideosPracticalGuide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Aragon.

Top Hotels in Aragon

Top Flights to Aragon

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Aragon.

Tours

Aljafería Palace Visit

Explore the Aljafería Palace, a stunning example of Moorish architecture in Zaragoza, Aragon.

Shopping

Biescas Shopping Stroll

Enjoy a variety of local shops and markets in the picturesque town of Biescas.

Outdoor

Hiking in Ordesa Valley

Experience the breathtaking landscapes of Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Aragon.

Currency
€ | EUR | Euro
Population
1.3 million
Languages
Spanish, Catalan, Aragonese, Spanish

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Aragon.

What people love

Aragon, located in northeastern Spain, offers a variety of attractions and experiences for travelers. Here are some of the pros of traveling to Aragon:

  1. Rich History and Culture: Aragon is known for its historical significance, with landmarks such as the Aljafería Palace in Zaragoza, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The region also boasts medieval villages, Roman ruins, and Gothic cathedrals that showcase its diverse cultural heritage.

  2. Stunning Landscapes: Aragon is home to the Pyrenees mountain range, providing opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and mountain biking. The region also features scenic valleys, rivers, and natural parks like Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park, offering breathtaking views and wildlife encounters.

  3. Culinary Delights: Aragonese cuisine is a highlight for food enthusiasts, with dishes like migas (breadcrumbs with sausage), ternasco (roast lamb), and somontano wines. Visitors can enjoy traditional fare in local restaurants and markets, as well as participate in food tours and cooking classes.

  4. Festivals and Events: Aragon hosts a variety of cultural celebrations throughout the year, including the Fiestas del Pilar in Zaragoza, one of Spain's biggest street festivals. Other events include music concerts, dance performances, and traditional folklore festivities that offer a glimpse into the local traditions.

  5. Accessibility: Aragon is well-connected by road, rail, and air, with major cities like Zaragoza served by transportation hubs. Travelers can easily explore the region's attractions and neighboring destinations, such as Catalonia and Navarre, making it a convenient base for further exploration.

Overall, traveling to Aragon offers a mix of history, nature, gastronomy, and culture that can appeal to a wide range of interests and preferences.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Aragon, Spain could include:

  1. Weather: Aragon experiences hot summers and cold winters, with temperatures varying greatly depending on the season. This could be a challenge for travelers who are sensitive to extreme temperatures.

  2. Limited public transportation: While major cities in Aragon like Zaragoza have good public transportation systems, reaching more remote areas or smaller towns may be difficult without a car.

  3. Language barrier: While Spanish is the primary language spoken in Aragon, some smaller towns or rural areas may have limited English speakers. Travelers who do not speak Spanish may face communication challenges.

  4. Limited tourist infrastructure: Aragon is less touristy compared to other regions in Spain like Barcelona or Madrid. As a result, amenities such as hotels, restaurants, and tourist services may be more limited in some areas.

  5. Remote locations: Some of the natural attractions in Aragon, such as the Pyrenees Mountains, may be located in remote areas with limited accessibility and services. Travelers should be prepared for long drives or hikes to reach these destinations.

Overall, while Aragon offers stunning landscapes, rich history, and unique cultural experiences, travelers should be aware of these potential challenges when planning their trip to the region.

Aragon is an autonomous community in northeastern Spain, known for its rich history and cultural heritage. It is bordered by France to the north, Catalonia to the east, Valencia to the southeast, Castile–La Mancha to the southwest, and Castile and León, La Rioja, and Navarre to the west.

Early History

  • Prehistoric and Roman Times: Aragon's history dates back to prehistoric times, with evidence of early human settlements. During the Roman period, the region was part of the Roman province of Hispania Tarraconensis. Important Roman cities included Caesaraugusta (modern-day Zaragoza).

Middle Ages

  • Muslim Conquest and the Reconquista: In the early 8th century, Muslim forces conquered much of the Iberian Peninsula, including Aragon. However, by the 11th century, Christian kingdoms began the Reconquista, slowly reclaiming territories from Muslim control.
  • The Kingdom of Aragon: The County of Aragon became a kingdom in 1035, under King Ramiro I. It expanded through marriage and conquest, eventually merging with the County of Barcelona in 1137 through the marriage of Petronila of Aragon and Ramon Berenguer IV, Count of Barcelona. This union laid the groundwork for the Crown of Aragon.

The Crown of Aragon

  • Expansion and Influence: The Crown of Aragon was a major European power during the Middle Ages, with territories that included parts of modern-day Spain, Italy, France, and Greece. It was known for its maritime prowess and trade.
  • Significant Figures: Important historical figures from this period include King James I of Aragon, known as "James the Conqueror," who significantly expanded the kingdom's territories, and King Ferdinand II, who married Isabella I of Castile, leading to the unification of Spain.

Modern Era

  • Union with Castile: The unification of the Crowns of Aragon and Castile under Ferdinand and Isabella in 1469 marked the beginning of modern Spain. Although Aragon retained some autonomy, it became part of a centralized Spanish state.
  • 18th-19th Century: The War of the Spanish Succession (1701-1714) resulted in the Nueva Planta decrees, which abolished Aragon's traditional laws and privileges. During the Napoleonic Wars, Aragon was occupied by French forces.

Contemporary Aragon

  • Autonomous Community: In 1978, following the end of Francoist Spain, Aragon became an autonomous community with its own government and parliament.
  • Economy and Culture: Today, Aragon is known for its agriculture, energy production, and tourism. It is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Mudéjar Architecture of Aragon.

Landmarks and Cultural Sites

  • Aljafería Palace: A Moorish castle in Zaragoza, it is one of the most significant examples of Islamic architecture in Spain.
  • Zaragoza: The capital of Aragon, known for the Basilica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar, a baroque temple with a stunning interior.
  • Pyrenees: The northern region of Aragon encompasses part of the Pyrenees Mountains, offering breathtaking landscapes and opportunities for outdoor activities.

Aragon's history is marked by its strategic location and cultural diversity, making it a unique region that has played a significant role in the history of Spain and Europe.