This historic Spanish mountain town sits beneath the Pyrenees' highest peaks. Its Gothic cathedral and narrow streets lead to gear shops, while winter brings skiers to nearby slopes.
Jaca, a mountain town of 13,000 residents in northeastern Spain, sits at the foot of the Pyrenees. Walk through its streets to discover an 11th-century cathedral with intricate chessboard carvings, watch deer roam freely in a 16th-century fortress moat, or climb the bell tower for panoramic mountain views. In winter, you can ski at Valle de Astun and Candanchu resorts, while summer brings hiking trails and medieval festivals where locals compete in ancient Aragonese sports like bar throwing.
Getting to Jaca
The closest major airport is in Zaragoza, 120 kilometers away. Take a train or bus to Jaca from there. If you're driving, follow the N-330 highway north from Zaragoza - the journey takes about 90 minutes.
Winter Sports in Jaca
Find two major ski resorts within 30 kilometers of Jaca. Valle de Astun and Candanchu operate from December through March, with slopes for both beginners and advanced skiers. The town's winter sports facilities hosted the Winter Universiades in 1981 and 1995, and the European Youth Olympic Winter Festival in 2007.
The Military Citadel
Step inside the Citadel of Jaca, built in 1592, to explore one of Spain's best-preserved military structures. Italian architect Tiburcio Spanocchi designed its pentagonal shape with low, thick walls to withstand cannon fire. Walk through the moat where deer now roam freely, explore the powder magazine, and visit the Museum of Military Miniatures to see 32,000 lead figures arranged in 23 historic battle scenes.
Religious Architecture
The Jaca Cathedral, dating from 1077, introduced the ajedrezado jaqués - a distinctive chessboard pattern that influenced architecture along the Camino de Santiago. Step inside to see the Chapel of Santa Orosia's paintings depicting the patron saint's life. Visit the Diocesan Museum in the cathedral's cloister to view medieval paintings and frescos from regional churches.
Local Festivals
Join the First Friday of May celebrations to watch medieval tournaments, jousting matches, and Aragonese sports competitions. On June 25, during the Santa Orosia festival, you'll hear the unique sounds of chiflo and psaltery instruments accompanying castanet dancers through the streets.
Food and Drink
In the old town's narrow streets, you'll find small bars serving tapas and restaurants cooking Aragonese dishes. Try the local apple cider, a regional specialty. While most establishments serve Spanish cuisine, you can also find unexpected options like Iranian-Spanish fusion at Nadali restaurant or locally brewed beer at Borda brewery.
