London Stansted to Zaragoza Airport
Zaragoza is the fifth largest city in Spain and capital of the Aragon region of eastern Spain. During the 19th century War of Independence the city was badly damaged and underwent a major reconstruction, although some of the historic monuments survived. Zaragoza is dominated by the domes and towers of the Basilica del Pilar which stands on the banks of the River Ebro.
Flights between London Stansted and Zaragoza Airport are operated by Ryanair. The airport is around 10km (6 miles) from Zaragoza city centre. The number 19 bus service to Zaragoza city centre connects with flight arrivals and departures. A single ticket costs 1.80 euros (£1 is approximately equal to 1.45 euros). Taxis are available from outside the arrivals gate and the fare to the city centre is around 17.50 euros.
Places of interest in Zaragoza include:
- La Seo. Situated on the eastern side of Plaza del Pilar is La Seo, notable for its huge size and eclectic mix of styles. The tall belfry was added in the 17th century and, in the 18th century, the cathedral was given a Baroque facade. Inside, the five aisles of equal height are impressive, while some of the side chapels are adorned with 16th century Renaissance carvings. In the Sacristy is a museum displaying paintings, chalices and other religious objects.
- Basilica del Pilar. Zaragoza’s second cathedral was started by Francisco Herrera the Younger in the late 17th century, but not fully completed until the end of the 19th century. This huge church, around 130 metres long and 67 metres wide, has one large central dome surrounded by ten smaller domes clad in brightly-coloured azulejo tiles. There are also four tall towers in each corner. The interior boasts frescoes by the likes of Goya and Velazquez.
- Aljaferia. Situated on the road to Bilbao is this enormous Moorish palace, dating from the 11th century. It was modified by the Aragonese kings and Catholic monarchs in the 14th and 15th centuries before becoming a barracks. The palace is centred around an ornately decorated rectangular patio, a typical of example of Moorish architecture. Within the patio is a small, restored mosque with brightly painted stuccowork. The palace’s tower was the inspiration for Verdi’s famous opera, Il Trovatore.
- La Lonja. This commercial exchange dates back to the 16th century when Zaragoza was an important trading centre. Built in a transitional style of architecture midway between Gothic and Plateresque, La Lonja features a large hall divided into three by tall columns decorated by carved grotesques.
- Pilarista Museum. This art museum features sketches by the likes of Goya and Velazquez. Also on display are the jewels worn during the Pilar festivals and pieces made from ivory such as an 11th century hunting horn.
- Parque de Atracciones. Located in the Torrero area of the city is this amusement park which boasts more than 35 different rides including the Revolution, Quetzal and the Gran Tikal water slide. There are also swimming pools and a play area for younger children.
|