Ancient Roman wall of Zaragoza

The Ancient Roman wall of Zaragoza is a defensive structure that enclosed the city of Caesaraugusta using alabaster blocks on its outer face and a rubble core. The wall was reinforced by around 120 towers and featured four main gateways that controlled entry to the city from different directions.

The wall was built between the 1st and 3rd centuries to defend Caesaraugusta as it grew in importance as a trading and administrative center. Later, the structure remained in use through different periods as successive rulers recognized its value for protecting the city.

The wall defined the boundary of Roman urban life and shaped how the city expanded and organized itself. Walking past the remaining sections helps you understand how such barriers were central to how ancient cities controlled access and movement.

Two sections are easy to reach today: one near the La Zuda Tower and another integrated into the Santo Sepulcro Convent buildings. Both locations sit close to other historical sites, making them simple to include in a city walk.

The unusual choice to use alabaster for the outer walls was expensive and reveals how important Rome considered this frontier city. This material was rare locally and had to be brought in, highlighting the investment Rome made in Caesaraugusta's prominence.