Fascinating Zaragoza: its most beautiful villages

Zaragoza is a love at first sight that will fascinate you. The beauty of its natural landscapes, the friendly character of the locals, the typical dishes and its wonderful festivities are experiences that give you an incredible feeling of happiness when you discover the true spirit of the region of Aragón. Its villages have a very special charm since they look like as postcards with a unique landscape. Here there are 11 compulsory villages of Zaragoza which stands out for its beauty.

Sos del Rey Católico, the Crown jewel

Undoubtedly this is one of the most beautiful villages of Spain. It is considered a medieval treasure as soon as you step into town. Its narrow streets were witness to the birth of King Ferdinand the Catholic. Specifically, in the ‘Palacio de la familia Sada’ (Palace of the Sada family).

Sos del Rey Católico is like a trip back in time due to its old Jewish quarter, the Torre del Homenaje, the hermitage of Santa Lucía and the Medieval Market. Besides, we could not forget its delicious gastronomy of Aragón. This little village, declared a Historic-Artistic Site in 1968, was the scenery of the film ‘La Vaquilla’, directed by Luis García Berlanga.

Talamantes, a fairy tale village

The ideal oasis to chill out and relax. Talamantes is one of those spots that will last forever in your memory. A small village of little white houses located in the heart of the Moncayo Natural Park, where walks, typical gastronomy and hiking are the highlights of the place.

Trasmoz, the cursed village

Trasmoz is located in the surroundings of the Moncayo Natural Park. It is a village located on a small hill that has many secrets. It looks like a group of small houses on an island, however, from a closer view, it is a labyrinthine path full of mystery that was an inspiration for the books of Gustavo Adolfo Bécquer.

Although Trasmoz is a peaceful village with few inhabitants, in ancient times it was baptised as a cursed village. According to the legend, numerous covens and acts of necromancy were performed by sorceresses and pagans around the castle. The curious part of the story is that even today the Church still keeps its ex-communion. Perhaps it has some connection with the figures of witches and black cats that can be found on the façades of the houses.

Muel and its relation with Goya

This village is one of the reference points of this province of Aragón. A small village surrounded by a unique natural landscape which is well-known among the locals for its pottery. Muel is one of those villages which hide marvellous treasures. Such as the parish church of San Cristobal, dating from the 18th century.

The hermitage of the ‘Virgen de la Fuente’ is another essential visit. An architectural jewel that has the signature of the master Goya in the frescoes on its dome. A few metres from it are an ancient Roman dam that regulates the course of the river Huerva and a beautiful park ideal for a lovely walk.

Belchite Viejo, a historical museum

This village is one of the most visited ones in Zaragoza. Belchite Viejo could be considered as a historical museum of the terrible consequences of the Spanish Civil War. Although the town is in ruins, some of its architectural heritage is still recognisable today. Such as the Arco de la Villa, the Calle Mayor and the convent of San Agustín.

Biel, a steak heaven

Aragón is a well-recognised region due to its gastronomy, and Biel is one of the best examples. This little town of around 100 inhabitants located in Sierra Santo Domingo was declared a Protected Landscape because of its incredible natural heritage. The peace and quiet is incredible. The curious fact about Biel is that, despite being a very small village, there are cultural gems such as its Romanesque castle, built at the end of the 11th century, the parish church of San Martín and the beautiful Jewish quarter. The village restaurant is specialised in steak and game meat.

Longás, a must in the region of ‘las Cinco Villas’

Longás is located in the region of ‘las Cinco Villas’, on the shore of the Onsera river. A village completely surrounded by thick forests which keeps its historical origins. Its old quarter looks like visiting the town some centuries ago. Besides, its stately homes, such as Casa Francisca and Casa Mayayo, show visitors the elegant style of 15th-century noble families. Some of its musts are the church of Santa María, built in the 14th century, and the Museo de Usos y Costumbres (Longás Folk Museum). In Longás you can also enjoy a wide range of typical dishes of Aragón and hike through the beautiful Sierra de Santo Domingo.

Lituénigo, the village of flowers

Lituénigo is one of the most picturesque villages that you should visit. I recommend you to do it during spring due to its incredible tradition: all the houses are decorated with flowers. The more colourful and attractive they are, the better.

Another curious fact about the village is that its old quarter preserves parts of the old castle that protected the town from possible attacks, which is now divided into dwellings. Its points of interest are the church of La Purificación de la Virgen, the Labrador Museum and, of course, its proximity to the Moncayo Nature Reserve. In summer, the traditional ‘Feria de los Oficios Perdidos’ (Lost Trades Fair) is celebrated and, for a few hours, the streets are full of blacksmiths, spinners and milkmen, among others.

Anento, a postcard village

Although Anento is not one of the most well-known villages, it has increased its popularity as one of the most beautiful villages in Spain, and well deserved. Anento, located in a limestone valley, is a picture-postcard village. A village to be photographed. In addition to the beautiful natural setting that surrounds it, this village is known for its Aguallueve natural spring, the church of San Blas and its beautiful Gothic altarpiece, considered to be the largest in Aragón. You can also visit the ruins of its ancient castle and the Celtiberian tower. A walk through its cobbled streets is a must.

Uncastillo, a medieval village in Zaragoza

One of the best well-preserved medieval villages in Zaragoza. Declared a Historic-Artistic Site in 1968, Uncastillo has some of the most important monuments in Aragon. Such as the church of Santa María, the palace of Pedro IV, the church of San Martín, the Jewish quarter and the ‘Poza de Hielo’. Nature lovers will enjoy the area around Uncastillo due to its wonderful location, in the basin of the river Riguel, which surrounds it with ravines and mountain trails. The Petilla ravine and the Anas ravine are two natural areas that captivate all those who visit them.

Navardún, a peaceful place

A little village where time stands still, with green fields, leafy trees, the rustle of leaves swaying in the wind… Navardún is one of those places to disappear in. A place to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet that can be felt in the surrounding area. Its stone houses and old quarter invite you to rest, taste its delicious gastronomy and disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The stately style of some of its buildings, the Gothic-style windows decorating some of the houses and the great tower that stands out in the area give a touch of history to a perfect destination to rest for a few days. Perhaps to end this beautiful tour of the most beautiful villages in Zaragoza.