スペインへの旅行では、バルセロナやマドリッドといった人気都市だけでなく、アラゴン州にも見逃せない魅力がある。アラゴン州の代表的な町として、ハカ、アルバラシン、テルエルが挙げられる。ハカは古き良き町並みと美しい城が特徴で、アルバラシンは要塞都市として知られ、アラブ・ヒスパニックの文化が色濃く残る。また、テルエルではムデハル建築や美食が楽しめ、ロマンチックな雰囲気も漂う。これらの町は日本ではあまり知られていないが、スペインの魅力を感じることができる。
When thinking about traveling to Spain, the first cities that probably come to mind are Barcelona and Madrid, which are often featured worldwide. However, despite being less visited, there are some areas that attract seasoned travelers. One such area is the region of Aragon, which flourished as the Kingdom of Aragon and left its mark in history as the foundation of Spain.
What is Aragon like as a region? And what are its charms? This time, we spoke to Mr. Hagiwara, the Southern Europe Manager of World Air Service, about the captivating city of Aragon in Spain that continues to charm travel enthusiasts.
■1: Huesca
Huesca, located at the foot of the Pyrenees, was once the former capital where Ramiro I founded the Kingdom of Aragon in 1035. Zaragoza was the capital until it was captured by Alfonso I from the Islamic army in 1118, after which it was moved there.
The main attraction is the city’s symbol, the castle. Shaped like a beautiful star, it is said to be the prototype of Goryokaku in Hakodate. It is located along the Santiago Pilgrimage Route, so the atmosphere of the old-fashioned post office district still remains a sight to behold.
By the way, the Santiago pilgrimage is famous for its symbol, the scallop shell. Therefore, many chocolate treats shaped like shells are now available for sale.
“One must-try specialty of Aragon is the lamb meat sauce ‘Chilindrón.’ For those who are not fond of lamb meat, it is also recommended to eat lamb meat with a sauce made from onions and tomatoes.” (World Airline Service, Hagiwara)
■2: Albarracín
Albarracín is a fortress city considered one of the most beautiful towns in Spain. With a rustic Christian culture preserved, it contrasts starkly with the charming Arab-Hispanic world of northern Aragon.
The castle walls running along the mountainside were built in the 14th century. They are still well preserved and harmonize beautifully with the reddish-brown houses. The view spread out before you is as beautiful as a painting.
The maze-like alleys in the nostalgic cityscape evoke strong influences of Islamic culture. Albarracín is a rare region in northern Spain where there are not many buildings influenced by Islam.
“A recommended photography spot is the castle wall about 20 minutes from the town. The view of the town from here forms a beautiful crescent curve, harmonizing with the surrounding nature, truly resembling a medieval town.” (World Air Service, Hagiwara)
■3: Teruel
Teruel boasts four UNESCO-listed heritage sites, the Mudejar architectural complex of Aragon. These include the tower, roof, and dome of the Cathedral of Santa Maria, the Church of San Pedro and its tower, and the Church of San Martín and the Church of Salvador. Experience the depth of the fusion of Islamic and Catholic architecture in Mudejar style.
Teruel is also a gourmet city. Particularly famous is the cured ham, as it is a renowned region for this in Spain. With reasonable prices, you can enjoy authentic flavors with ease. Pair it with delicious Spanish wine for a wonderful time.
Furthermore, it is also a region known as one of the world’s three great delicacies, producing truffles. You can enjoy the luxurious taste at a reasonable price that is unimaginable in Japan.
“This city is known as the stage for the bittersweet and romantic Spanish version of Romeo and Juliet, ‘The Lovers of Teruel.’ Why not feel the history at the Church of San Pedro, where the coffins of the married couple are laid to rest?” (World Air Service, Hagiwara)
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Above, we featured three charming towns in Spain’s Aragon region that are not well known in Japan.
The simple charm, the grandeur of the Pyrenees, and the Mudejar-style architecture reminiscent of the Middle Ages make Aragon a microcosm of Spain’s allure. Whether you have traveled there multiple times or are visiting Spain for the first time, it will surely leave you with wonderful memories.
Atsushi Inami
Photos provided by World Air Service