The Palacio de la Aljafería is a fortified castle that dates back to the mid-11th century. It was commissioned by Al-Muqtadir as a residence for the kings of Saraqusta. It was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001 and is one of Zaragoza’s most impressive and important historic buildings.
Its imposing structure reflects the splendour attained by the taifa kingdom, and it is in fact the only remaining example of Islamic architecture from the taifa era. In 1118, after Zaragoza was reconquered, the castle became the property of King Alfonso I of Aragon, ‘the Battler’.
The complex includes a large turret known as the Troubadour Tower, which is the building's oldest structure. It owes its name to a romantic drama of the same name written by Antonio García Gutiérrez in 1836. The interior of the building retains vestiges of 9th- and 10th-century features, such as the large arches that support the first floor and a reconstructed wall decorated with colourful geometric designs.
The main entrance is an arched doorway flanked by two large stone turrets. The area on the north side is particularly impressive, with its interior courtyards and doorways adorned with Baroque arches. This section also includes a room known as the Golden Hall, with a stunning doorway leading into it from the eastern bedroom.
This is a unique place to visit that will transport you back to the 11th century, when the city was under Muslim rule. The building is located on Calle de los Diputados and you can get there from Plaza Ciudadanía or Calle Castillo.
This area does not have many places to park, but you can leave your car in the Saba car park that’s very close to the castle and to Zaragoza Delicias Train Station, at number 33 Calle Rioja.
