Wonders in Aragón you should see at least once in life
The autonomous community of Aragón consists of three provinces: Huesca, Zaragoza, and Teruel. The first one borders on France, the second is known for housing one of the most crowded religious temples in Spain (Virgen del Pilar); and the latter is famous thanks to a popular legend, the one regarding the lovers of Teruel. However, this territory of more than 45 square kilometres has even more special corners that you should visit at least once in your life. These are the most fascinating wonders in Aragón.
Reconstruction of trenches, Alcubierre. | Shutterstock
Only a few people know that the renowned writer George Orwell took part as a volunteer in the Spanish Civil War in support of the Republicans. For this reason, people in Alcubierre wanted to honour him while placing value on their own historic heritage. Today, you can visit these trenches, as well as a bunker, and an air raid shelter. It’s the perfect place to learn more about the history of Spain.
Dolmen de Achar in Aguas Tuertas. | Shutterstock
In the heart of the Aguas Tuertas valley, you will find the Dolmen de Achar of Dolmen del Salto, a megalithic construction of small dimensions yet great value. In order to get to this monument, you will have to ascend a total of 1,600 metres and enter the Pyrinees. It’s formed by three stone slabs, and it’s covered with a fourth one. It is still extremely well-preserved, even nowadays. The way to this monument can be the perfect excursion for nature lovers or a relaxing stop if you want to keep exploring the area.
Palacio de Larrinaga. | Shutterstock
Only 30 minutes by foot from the centre of Zaragoza, Palacio de Larrinaga rises high, a true architectural masterpiece from the 19th century. Behind its majesty you will find the love story between Miguel Larrinaga, a Basque ship operator, and Asunción Clavero, a young Aragonese lady. In fact, the palace was a gift for her. Sadly, this love didn’t have a happy ending. Exploring this palace involves discovering the history of Zaragoza and its economic development.
Parque Grande in Zaragoza. | Shutterstock
Parque Grande is one of the oldest places in this city. Located in the heart of Zaragoza, this green space hides plenty of treasures: two lakes, nine fountains of safe water and eight monumental fountains, 22 sculptures and more than 150 botanical species. And there are games for children too. It’s the perfect place to spend a lovely day in the outdoors with your family, having fun and learning at the same time. Besides, you will have to wander through the most central streets of the Aragonese capital to get here.
Pozo de los Aines, a natural sink hole in Grisel. | Shutterstock
You will find this municipality just three kilometres from Tarazona, one of the most visited villages in the province. But this one isn’t as crowded and is equally charming. In 2022, it only had 82 inhabitants, which makes it one of the smallest population centres in the area. Its main attractions are two – a fifteenth-century castle turned into a hotel and Pozo de los Aines. The latter is a chasm of great beauty. In conclusion, this destination is ideal to run away from classic tourism and remain connected to the main localities in Zaragoza.
Aliaga. | Shutterstock
Aliaga is another locality that stands out for its role on the Spanish Civil War. This municipality of less than 400 inhabitants has a large religious and civil heritage, but its main attraction is its geological park. In this location, you will learn the history of Earth since rock formations from more than 200 million years ago are preserved here. For this reason, this is a perfect outdoor plan for nature, sports, and geology lovers.
La Portellada. | Shutterstock
There are many natural pools in Aragón that you can visit for a refreshing swim, but only for the bravest. Most of them feed on the waters from defrost, so they are especially cold. This happens in La Portellada, where you will find one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Teruel: El Salt. It’s 20 metres high and there is a pool right under it, in the Matarraña region. There are many hiking routes to get here, each of a different duration. And although this landscape hides in the heart of nature, there are many other interesting places in its surroundings, like the sanctuaries of Monserrate and Virgen de la Fuente, or Mirador de la Predicadora, where you can enjoy the views of the mountain range.
In conclusion, Aragón is an autonomous community of great charm. Although nature is its main attraction, there are many other places whose heritage stands out. Undoubtedly, it’s the perfect destination for any season, since it’s never affected by mass tourism and remains an oasis of calm all year round.
