This northeastern Spanish city sits in the Pyrenees foothills, with medieval streets, local tapas bars and active arts venues. Nearby trails lead through mountain landscapes.
Huesca, a city in northeastern Spain's Aragon region, lies at the foothills of the Pyrenees mountains. You can walk through medieval streets to discover the Gothic Cathedral's intricate alabaster altar, explore the stone carvings at the 12th-century San Pedro el Viejo Abbey, or follow the ancient city walls past towers and gates. Visit in August to experience the San Lorenzo festival's bull runs and street performances, or catch an independent film at the city's international film festival.
Exploring Huesca's Medieval Center
Walk up to the Gothic Cathedral to see the 13th-century architecture and the detailed alabaster altar created by Damián Forment. You'll find two cloisters inside: the Romanesque cloister and the Papa Luna cloister, both part of the Diocesan Museum. Walk the streets around the cathedral to see parts of the old city walls, including the well-preserved Septríon tower and La Porteta gate.
Religious Architecture Through Ages
Step into the Abbey of San Pedro el Viejo, one of Spain's most significant Romanesque buildings (1100-1241). Two Aragonese kings, Alfonso I and Ramiro II, rest here. Look closely at the monastery's cloister to spot stone carvings of biblical scenes and medieval daily life. Near the Church of San Miguel (founded 1110), you can see the last remaining tower of the 99 that once guarded the city.
Museums and Cultural Spaces
Visit the Museum of Huesca in its former university building to see the Bell of Huesca, Roman artifacts, and medieval art collections. Open Tuesday to Saturday 10:00-14:00 and 17:00-20:00, Sunday 10:00-14:00. The Círculo Oscence (Casino de Huesca) displays early 20th-century architecture with elements similar to Gaudí's style.
Local Food Scene
Try Aragonese dishes in the city center's restaurants, including ternasco (roasted lamb) and ajoarriero de bacalao (salt cod with garlic and olive oil). Stop at tapas bars around Plaza Luis López Allué to taste local Somontano wines. Visit Ultramarinos La Confianza, Spain's oldest operating corner shop, to buy regional products.
Getting Around and Climate
Walk easily through the car-free city center. Take the AVE high-speed train to reach Zaragoza (30 minutes) or Madrid (2.5 hours). Winter temperatures average 5°C (41°F), while summer days reach 30°C (86°F). Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) bring mild temperatures and occasional rain.
San Lorenzo Festival
Join the Fiestas de San Lorenzo from August 9-15, when locals wear white clothes with red scarves. Each day includes bull runs at 9:00, traditional dancing in Plaza López Allué, and evening concerts. The festival peaks on August 10, Saint Lawrence's day, with a grand procession through the old town.
