Aljafería, Medieval palace in Zaragoza, Spain.
Description
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.
History
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.
Culture
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.
Practical
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.
Did you know?
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.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Zaragoza).
Zaragoza blends architecture from Roman and Islamic periods with modern cultural spaces. The old city is defined by the Basilica del Pilar and the Cathedral of La Seo, two grand structures that have shaped the city's skyline for centuries. Newer neighborhoods contain an aquarium and shopping centers...
Aragonese Corts
28 m
Iglesia parroquial de San Pablo
928 m
CaixaForum Zaragoza
525 m
Edificio Pignatelli
633 m
Averly
359 m
Pasarela del Voluntariado
945 m
Obelisk Europe
497 m
Torre del Trovador
42 m
Patio de Santa Isabel
13 m
Puente de la Almozara
783 m
Teatro del Mercado
674 m
Iglesia parroquial de Nuestra Señora del Portillo
355 m
Museo del Fuego y de los Bomberos
943 m
Church of las Fecetas
495 m
Agustina de Aragón memorial
402 m
Grupo Escolar Joaquín Costa
668 m
Teatro de la Estación
233 m
Etopia Centre for Arts & Technology
929 m
Iglesia de Nuestra Señora del Carmen y colegio mayor Virgen del Carmen
945 m
Pasarela Milla Digital
967 m
Monumento a Palafox
820 m
Cuartel de Sangenís
893 m
Church of Nuestra Señora de la Almudena, Zaragoza
421 m
St Martin's Church
49 m
Santa y Real Hermandad del Refugio
729 m
Casa de Amparo
779 m
Church of Nuestra Señora del Carmen, Zaragoza
950 m
Convent of Discalced Carmelites of Santa Teresa de Zaragoza
495 mDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes