Aljafería, Medieval palace in Zaragoza, Spain.
Aljafería is a fortified palace complex in Zaragoza, Spain, that unites elements of Moorish, Gothic, and Renaissance architecture. Thick defensive walls with semicircular towers surround multiple courtyards, halls, and chapels that have been expanded over the centuries.
Muslim rulers built the structure in the 11th century as a royal residence in their Taifa of Zaragoza. After the Christian conquest, it served Aragonese kings and was converted into the seat of the Inquisition in the 15th century.
The name comes from Arabic and recalls the Moorish rulers who shaped the building for centuries. Visitors today still see the finely carved stucco work in the Golden Hall and the throne room, where Christian and Islamic ornaments exist side by side.
Access is through the main gate on the southeast side, from where routes lead through the different wings. Audio guides help with orientation between the different construction phases and styles.
The Parliament of Aragon meets today in a modern extension within the old walls. The deputies thus work literally in a monument that has gone through almost a thousand years of history.
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