Zaragoza is the fifth largest city in Spain and capital of the Aragon region. It is situated in the northeast of Spain, roughly halfway between Madrid and Barcelona. The city has been relatively untouched by tourism, although this is now likely to change with the recent opening of a new high-speed rail link from Madrid. Zaragoza has some notable historic monuments, including a Moorish palace and several fine churches. There are also many tapas bars, cafes and restaurants, while Zaragoza's 40,000 students help to give the city a lively feel.
The Romans founded Zaragoza around 2,000 years ago, and the city takes its name from the Roman emperor Caesar Augusta. Zaragoza was ruled by the Beni-Hud dynasty in the 11th century. Despite having a reputation as a Christian hero, the legendary El Cid was in fact a mercenary leader who fought for the Islamic Beni Huds during this time. The city is also famous for resisting Napoleonic forces during the great sieges of the early 19th century.
The majority of Zaragoza's tourist attractions, including La Lonja, El Pilar and La Seo cathedral, are situated around the Plaza del Pilar. Between this large public square and the River Ebro is the huge Basilica de Nuestra Senora del Pilar. This impressive Baroque church has a large central dome surrounded by 10 smaller domes, with four tall towers in each corner. It was built to honour the Virgin of the Apostle who, according to legend, appeared before St James on this site in AD40. The basilica's interior is notable for its carvings and elaborate frescoes, with the highlight being a series of paintings by Francisco de Goya within the central dome. One of Spain's best-loved painters, Goya was born in 1746 in a small village just outside Zaragoza. A couple of bombs were dropped on the church during the Spanish Civil War but fortunately they failed to explode.
The Gothic cathedral of La Seo was built on the site of Islamic mosque. Its museum contains many treasures, such as paintings, tapestries and sculptures. A short distance from La Seo is the Renaissance exchange of La Lonja, constructed from thousands of small bricks. La Lonja's interior is notable its magnificent stone ornamentation. The Palacio de la Aljaferia, built during the 11th century, is located to the west of the city centre. Although it has been modified many times over the years, this Moorish palace still retains its original mosque and courtyard. The elaborately carved ceiling on the first floor contains images of the Catholic monarchs, Ferdinand and Isabella.
There are some great views of the city from the much-photographed bridge, Puente de Piedra, which spans the River Ebro. Constructed in 1813, the bridge contains elements of Basque, French and Italian architecture. Other historic attractions in Zaragoza include the 18th century Puerta del Carmen, once part of the city walls, and the Arab Baths dating from the 13th century. Children will enjoy the science museum and the amusement park, which is set within attractive pine groves.
Agaete is situated at the end of a steep ravine on the north-west coast of Gran Canaria. The area surrounding the town is notable for its lush vegetation and steep terraces which are used to grow bananas, oranges, papayas and other crops which thrive in these sub-tropical conditions. Agaete itself is a small, tranquil place boasting some attractive narrow streets and pretty whitewashed houses. This picturesque spot has attracted numerous artists over the years, accounting for the many art galleries found in the town.
One of the most interesting buildings in Agaete is the Church of Nuestra Senora de la Concepcion, which dates back to the late 19th century. The church is notable for its distinctive red dome. Close by are the botanical gardens known as Huerto de las Flores. It was here that the 19th century poet, Tomas Morales, is thought to have written some of his finest works. The walled gardens are stuffed full of sub-tropical plants including bougainvilleas and date palms. They are open to the public every morning and are also the venue for some of Agaete's cultural events.
A short distance along the coast from Agaete is the small harbour of Puerto de las Nieves. There are regular ferry services from here to Santa Cruz de Tenerife operated by Fred Olsen. The journey takes about an hour. Whilst in Puerto de las Nieves it is worth taking a look at the small church, Ermita de Nuestra Senora de las Nieves, which dates from the 16th century, although the towers and facade were added three centuries later. Inside is a carving of the Virgin of the Snows by Flemish artist Joos van Cleve. The town of Puerto de la Nieves has a beach of dark grey sand. Alongside it are some fine seafood restaurants.
Reptilandia is located a few miles outside Agaete close to the town of Galdar. One of the most popular family tourist attractions on Gran Canaria, this park is full of fascinating animals such as turtles, tortoises, alligators, crocodiles and a komodo dragon. The zoo also has a variety of snakes and spiders, plus a group of mischievous monkeys. Between Agaete and San Nicolas de Tolentino is the spectacular, winding coast road known as the Anden Verde. The road passes some rocky headlands as it leads to the Mirador del Balcon, situated on a cliff top high above the sea. There are some stunning views from this spot.
Celebrations are an important tradition within the Agaete municipality. The Fiesta de la Rama, held on August 4th, involves hundreds of dancers waving palm leaves in the air as they make their way through the town. Historians believe this fiesta originates from the traditional rain dances of the native Gaunche civilisations. The following day (August 5th) there is a fiesta dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Other important events which take place in Agaete include the Fiesta de la Concepcion (December 8th) and the Fiesta de San Pedro (June 29th).
Agaete is situated about 18 miles (30km) from the capital, Las Palmas, which can be accessed easily via the GC2 road running along the island's northern coastline.
Article Source :
Gary Marshall has sinced written about articles on various topics from Jamaica Vacations, Travel and Leisure and Property Guide. For more advice and tourist information about Zaragoza please see Aragon, Spain.. Gary Marshall's top article generates over 550000 views. to your Favourites.