Five jewels of Al-Andalus in Aragon you must discover

Aragon, with its rich history, offers travelers a unique opportunity to explore the lasting influence of Al-Andalus in Spain. From architectural marvels to culinary delights, the region is home to stunning examples of Islamic heritage that seamlessly blend with the region’s later Christian influences. For Muslim travelers seeking to delve into Spain’s diverse past, here are five must-visit treasures in Aragon that showcase the brilliance of Al-Andalus and its legacy.

1. The wonderful Aljafería Palace

The Aljafería Palace is widely regarded as one of the finest examples of Islamic architecture outside of Andalusia. Built in the 11th century during the Taifa period, this magnificent fortress in Zaragoza is home to some of the most extraordinary Islamic artistry in Spain. The intricate arches of the central courtyard and the octagonal prayer room with its mihrab evoke the same level of craftsmanship as Córdoba’s iconic Great Mosque.

Originally constructed as an Islamic royal residence, the Aljafería also features later Mudejar additions. This architectural style, which blends Islamic and Christian elements, can be seen in the stunning wooden ceiling of the Throne Hall, commissioned by the Catholic Monarchs. This exquisite piece is one of the key elements that earned Aragonese Mudejar art the UNESCO World Heritage recognition.

2. Calatayud and its five castles

The city of Calatayud bears a name that speaks to its Islamic roots—Qal’at Ayyub, the castle of Ayyub. Founded by Ayyub ben Habib al-Hajmi, the third wali of Al-Andalus, Calatayud became one of the first medinas established by the Muslims in the 8th century. The origin of the Islamic city lies in a complex fortification composed of five castles and more than four kilometers of walls. It later flourished as a key center in the Taifa of Zaragoza and even minted its own coins during its brief period as an independent taifa (islamic kingdom).

Today, Calatayud and its comarca stand as an important center of Mudejar art, with three UNESCO World Heritage-listed churches. The city’s urban defensive enclosure, which dates back over 1,100 years, is the oldest of its kind in the Iberian Peninsula and one of the oldest in the Islamic world.

3. Albarracín, the reddish village

Regarded as one of the most beautiful villages in Spain, Albarracín is also a significant Islamic historical site. The village’s medieval houses are as enchanting as its fascinating past. In the 11th century, Albarracín was an independent Islamic mini-state ruled by the Banu Razin dynasty. The remains of its citadel, the Andador Tower, and parts of the old city wall are enduring testaments to its Islamic heritage.

The reddish plaster that covers many of Albarracín’s buildings adds to its charm, while the ancient city layout transports visitors back to a time when this small town was an important cultural and political center in Al-Andalus.

4. Daroca, the old Daruqa, and its walls

The city of Daroca, known in Arabic as Daruqa, was founded by Muslims on the hill of San Cristóbal in the 8th century. The city’s well-preserved walls, still standing today, define its historical and monumental character. By 1142, Daroca had become a thriving Christian city, but it retained its original Islamic urban structure.

Notably, Daroca’s walls stretch nearly 4 kilometers, featuring over 100 towers and three castles along their path. These defensive fortifications remain one of the best-preserved examples of Islamic defensive architecture in Aragón, offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into the region’s Islamic past.

5. The sweet ad delicious guirlache

No visit to Aragon would be complete without tasting guirlache, a sweet treat with deep roots in Al-Andalus. Made from almonds and caramelized sugar, this confectionary traces its origins back to Islamic Spain. Though the name “guirlache” itself is derived from the French word “grillage,” it remains a cherished tradition in Aragon, particularly in Zaragoza. It is hand-crafted in the region’s best pastry shops, such as Fantoba, which has been making guirlache since 1876.

Whether enjoyed as a snack or a dessert, or even as a gastronomic souvenir, guirlache serves as a delicious reminder of Aragon’s shared history with the broader Mediterranean world, where almonds have been cultivated for centuries.

Each of these treasures offers a unique window into the rich and varied history of Aragón, a region where the influence of Al-Andalus is woven into the fabric of everyday life. For Muslim travelers, these sites provide an opportunity to experience the legacy of a time when the Islamic world was a beacon of culture, art, and scientific achievement.