Its name reveals its origin: Qal'at Ayyub, meaning "the castle of Ayyub." This refers to Ayyub ben Habib al-Hajmi, the third wali of Al-Andalus. The urban defensive enclosure of Calatayud, with over 11 centuries of history, is the oldest preserved Arab-built fortification in the Iberian Peninsula and one of the oldest in the Islamic world. This fascinating town in Zaragoza province and its surrounding region is also a hub of Mudejar art, boasting three monuments that are part of the UNESCO-listed Aragonese treasures.
Info & Location
City/Province: Zaragoza
Type of Experience:
Islamic heritage
Address: 50300, Calatayud, Zaragoza, Spain
When: Calatayud is a great destination to visit any time of the year. The weather is generally dry, with cold winters and hot summers, and many sunny days featuring a beautiful blue sky.
How to get there: The fourth most important city in Aragon has a privileged location, between Zaragoza and Madrid. Calatayud can be reached by car or bus from Zaragoza (84 kms) or Madrid (230 km.), Highway A-2, but also by AVE high-speed train: in 55 minutes to/from Madrid, or just over 20 m. to/from Zaragoza.
Points of interest: Above all, the Mudejar landmarks, with the Monastery-Colegiata de Santa María recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This site includes the tower, apse, and cloister, showcasing the finest Mudejar artistry. Other excellent examples of beautiful Mudejar art in Calatayud include the church and tower of San Pedro de los Francos and the church and tower of San Andrés.
The Moorish suburb lies below Ayub Castle. You can also visit some of the city gates, such as Puerta del Terrer, Puerta de Zaragoza, and the Plaza de España square
Tourist info: Tourist Office address: Plaza de España, 1. Phone: (+34) 976 886 322
