Aljafería

The Aljafería is a fortified medieval palace in Zaragoza, in Spain’s Aragon region, originally built in the 11th century under the Taifa of Zaragoza. It is an important surviving example of Islamic palace architecture on the Iberian Peninsula and later accumulated Christian and Mudéjar modifications.

Ornate courtyard and reception spaces with intricate plasterwork and arches that represent Taifa-period decoration and later Mudejar craftsmanship. The complex also contains defensive walls and towers alongside ceremonial halls, attracting visitors interested in medieval Islamic architecture and later Hispanic medieval history.

The original palace was constructed in the 11th century as a residence for the Hudid rulers of Zaragoza; after the Christian conquest it was modified and reused by Aragonese monarchs and later repurposed for administrative and military functions. Subsequent centuries saw restorations and additions that layered Gothic and Mudéjar features onto the original Islamic layout.

Aljafería sits within the city of Zaragoza near the city centre, within the urban fabric of the Ebro river plain. It is accessible from central Zaragoza and forms part of the city’s historic core.

• Architectural mix: Contains significant Mudéjar decorative elements and later Christian additions that illustrate changing rule in the region.
• Current use: Today houses the regional parliament of Aragon and is open to visitors with guided routes through major rooms.