Calatayud is one of the closest towns to Malanquilla and the fourth largest town in Aragon. It is a strategic point in the Iberian Peninsula, which has been influenced by different cultural currents over the last centuries. These currents have left architectural traces in its streets. Its Mudejar churches, its historic centre or any of its five castles, headed by the castle of Ayud (the monument that gives its name to the city), are excellent destinations to spend an afternoon.
One of the most visited places in Spain. It is a monastery surrounded by an incomparable natural setting. It was founded in 1194 by 13 “Cistercian” monks, abandoned in 1883 and bought in 1888 by a private individual to turn it into a tourist attraction. Its Mudejar churches, its historic centre or any of its five castles, headed by the castle of Ayud (the monument that gives its name to the city), are excellent destinations to spend an afternoon.
Less than an hour’s drive from the hotel is Soria, a city known for its medieval streets and Romanesque architecture. The church of Santo Domingo, the Numantine Museum, the banks of the Duero. Without a doubt, a place difficult to describe in a few words. The perfect place to absorb cultural influences from different epochs that have shaped the foundations of our society.
It is the oldest Cistercian monastery in Aragon. It was built in 1146 after a donation of the land by Pedro de Altarés and his mother, nobles belonging to the royal family of Aragon. The monastery is located on the banks of the Moncayo, a natural setting with lush, ancient forests. It was abandoned by the Cistercians in 1835. However, a conservation board made up of people from Borja and Tazona prevented its total ruin and thanks to the creation of an inn, the monument was preserved.
Mudejar art is an artistic style that developed in the Christian kingdoms of the Iberian Peninsula and which incorporated Hispano-Muslim influences, elements or materials. It was the consequence of the conditions of coexistence existing in Medieval Spain. Near Malanquilla we find incredible examples of this artistic current, some of the most outstanding being the churches of Torralba de Ribota, Aniñón, Cervera de la Cañada and Aranda.
One of the most beautiful areas around Malanquilla, it mixes historical elements and beautiful landscapes. From the castle of Berdejo, where the war of the two Pedros made it a protagonist, to the waterfall of Los Chorros, renowned throughout the area for its beautiful nature. Passing by the curious fountain of the 28 jets, the castle of Bijuesca or the medieval bridge that crosses the river Manubles. Undoubtedly, a valley with a lot of charm.
Very close by is the Borobia astronomical observatory. The Borobia astronomical observatory has the most powerful telescope in Spain for naked eye observation. It is the second most powerful observatory after the telescope at the Teide Observatory.
Guided tours are available on certain days of the week and are highly recommended.
The Aranda region is only 10 minutes away from Malanquilla. Here are our recommendations.
Aranda del Moncayo: Araticos Exhibition Space and the Celtiberian “Aratis” located in the current Aranda del Moncayo, was a Celtiberian city. It was built around the 6th century BC and was destroyed between 72 and 74 BC. It was the capital of the Celtiberian villages scattered around the present-day region of Aranda. Visit their website.
Illueca: Papa Luna Castle (Illueca): The palace of the Luna family, also known as the castle palace of Papa Luna in the town of Illueca, is a Renaissance monument built on the site of a late medieval fortress between the 14th and 16th centuries with Italian influences. It is probably the most important monument in the area. Contact.
Brea de Aragón: As they say in “turismodearagon.com”: “On your journey through the beautiful lands of the region of Aranda, we recommend you make a stop along the way when you reach Brea de Aragón, a town whose main economic engine is the footwear industry”.
Footwear Museum: The Footwear Museum allows you to learn more about Brea’s long tradition in the art of shoemaking. And how this professional activity has become its main economic engine throughout its history. Contact.
Oseja: Museum of Agriculture Oseja is a village with a long agricultural tradition. A visit to the museum is a good way to learn about all kinds of tools and utensils related to traditional agriculture in the area. Website.