A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Calatayud: A Historical and Cultural Treasure in the Heart of Zaragoza

Calatayud, a city located in the province of Zaragoza, Spain, is a tourist destination known for its rich history, architectural heritage, and stunning natural landscape. Founded by the Romans in the 2nd century BC, the city has been influenced by various cultures over the centuries, including the Visigoths, Muslims, and Christians, which is reflected in its diverse architecture and traditions.

Historical and Cultural Heritage

One of the main attractions of Calatayud is its historical and cultural heritage. The city hosts numerous monuments and sites of interest, such as the Church of San Pedro de los Francos, the College of San Ildefonso, and the Palace of the Counts of Sástago. However, the most notable is the complex of Islamic fortresses known as the Fortified Enclosure of Calatayud, which includes five castles and offers stunning views of the city and its surroundings.

Architecture and Art

The architecture of Calatayud is a fascinating mix of Roman, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. Highlights include the Collegiate Church of Santa Maria, an impressive example of Mudejar architecture, and the Church of San Andrés, which houses a Renaissance-style altarpiece. In addition, the city has several museums, such as the Calatayud Museum and the Dolores Museum, which house collections of art and archaeology from the region.

Nature and Landscapes

In addition to its historical and cultural heritage, Calatayud offers a wide variety of natural landscapes. The city is surrounded by mountains, rivers, and vineyards, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor activities. Among the places of interest are the Natural Park of the Monastery of Piedra, with its impressive waterfall and beautiful gardens, and the Sierra de Vicort, a perfect place for hiking and bird watching.

Gastronomy and Wines

The gastronomy of Calatayud is another of its great attractions. The city is famous for its wines, especially the wine of the Calatayud Denomination of Origin, which is produced in the vineyards surrounding the city. In addition, the local cuisine offers a wide variety of traditional dishes, such as Aragonese lamb, Bilbilitana-style cod, and eggs in salmorejo sauce.

Gastronomic Products from Calatayud

• Wine from the Calatayud Designation of Origin

  Calatayud is famous for its wine production, especially those from the Calatayud Designation of Origin. These wines are known for their quality and variety, with Garnacha grapes as the predominant variety. Calatayud wines are internationally recognized and have won numerous awards.

• Cured Meats and Hams

  The Calatayud region is known for its high-quality cured meats and hams. The pigs are raised in the surrounding mountains, giving them a unique flavor. Calatayud hams are cured for several months to develop their flavor and texture.

• Calatayud Honey

  Calatayud honey is another standout product from the region. Bees collect nectar from the flowers of almond trees, cherry trees, and other native plants, producing a honey with a sweet and floral flavor. This honey is used in many local recipes and is also sold as a gourmet product.

• Calatayud Cheeses

  Calatayud is also famous for its cheeses, especially goat and sheep cheeses. These cheeses are traditionally made, using fresh milk from local farms. Calatayud cheeses are known for their intense flavor and creamy texture.

Sports Activities in Calatayud

Hiking

Calatayud offers hiking trails that cross through stunning natural landscapes. You can explore the Route of the Stone Faces, the Water Route, or the Viewpoints Route.

Mountain Biking

The mountainous terrain of Calatayud is ideal for mountain biking. There are several marked routes for all skill levels, from beginners to experts.

Golf

For golf lovers, Calatayud is home to Augusta Golf Calatayud, an 18-hole course offering panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.

Canoeing

The Jalón River, which runs through Calatayud, is a popular place for canoeing. You can rent a kayak and enjoy a peaceful day on the water.

Climbing

The Sierra de Vicort and the Sierra de Santa Cruz, close to Calatayud, are popular destinations for climbing. There are routes for all levels, from beginners to experienced climbers.

Places near Calatayud

If you are in Calatayud and wish to explore a bit more, here we present some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:

Daroca, a medieval gem in Zaragoza, Spain, captivates visitors with its centuries-old walls, Gothic churches, and cobblestone streets. Its local cuisine, featuring Aragonese lamb and wines from the region, offers a unique culinary experience.

The Piedra Monastery, in Zaragoza, Spain, is an impressive tourist destination with waterfalls, caves and gardens. It offers a unique culinary experience with its restaurant serving delicious local dishes in a historic setting.