Patio de Santa Isabel, Medieval courtyard in Aljafería Palace, Zaragoza, Spain
Patio de Santa Isabel is a rectangular courtyard in Aljafería Palace featuring two water pools positioned at opposite ends and marble pathways surrounding a central garden area. The structure displays open arcades on at least one side, characteristic of medieval palace design.
After King Alfonso I conquered Zaragoza, the original Taifa palace structures were modified to align with medieval architectural preferences. These transformations created the rectangular courtyard with its characteristic water pools and covered walkways.
The courtyard bears the name of Isabella of Aragon and Sicily, who became Queen of Portugal through her marriage to King Denis. Visitors can observe how this name reflects the historical connection between the Aragonese dynasty and the Iberian Peninsula.
The courtyard can be explored as part of a visit to Aljafería, though the original southern arcades are now displayed at the National Archaeological Museum and the Museum of Zaragoza. Visitors should note that some original elements are located elsewhere and focus on the current layout of the space.
Scholar Christian Ewert documented that the arcades near noble areas maintain strong connections to architectural traditions from Cordoba. This detail reveals how Andalusian building styles continued to influence the palace structures even after political changes.
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