A village carved in stone with centuries of history
Located in the very heart of the Somontano region in the province of Huesca, Alquézar is one of the most picturesque villages in the Aragonese Pre-Pyrenees. Nestled between limestone gorges and surrounded by the Sierra and Canyons of Guara Natural Park, this small village stands out not only for its natural beauty but also for its remarkable historical heritage.
Its name comes from the Arabic al-qasr, meaning “fortress”, and this is no coincidence. Alquézar was founded as a Muslim defensive stronghold in the 9th century, on the frontier between the Christian kingdoms and the Caliphate of Córdoba.
For centuries, this strategic enclave witnessed conflicts, reconquests and architectural transformations that can still be read in its stone walls today. Alquézar was conquered by King Sancho Ramírez in 1064 and incorporated into the Kingdom of Aragon. From that moment on, its history has been shaped by the fusion of cultures and the development of a unique urban layout.
Streets that preserve their medieval layout
Walking through Alquézar is like stepping back in time. The layout of its streets remains faithful to its medieval origins, with narrow passageways, stone arches, steep staircases and natural viewpoints. Every corner feels like a postcard: wrought-iron balconies filled with flowers, Moorish-style tiled roofs and stone houses that blend seamlessly into the landscape.
Charming corners
One of the village’s greatest charms is precisely this feeling of wandering through a place frozen in time, yet full of life. Traditional architecture coexists with small local shops, artisan workshops and restaurants that respect the original aesthetic of the buildings.
Squares and viewpoints
Rafael Ayerbe Square, for example, is an ideal place to pause, enjoy a drink on a terrace and observe local life at a relaxed pace. From various points within the old town, visitors can enjoy outstanding views over the Vero River gorges and the lush vegetation surrounding the village.
The Collegiate Church of Santa María: living history
Dominating the village from above, the Collegiate Church of Santa María la Mayor is Alquézar’s most iconic monument. It stands on a rocky promontory overlooking the Vero River gorge and still preserves remains of its original function as an Islamic fortress.
After the Christian reconquest in the 11th century, the structure was transformed into a collegiate church and gradually incorporated Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque elements over time.
Architecture and religious art
Access to the collegiate church is through a fortified gateway that recalls its military past. Inside, highlights include the Romanesque cloister with sculpted capitals, the single-nave church with ribbed vaults, a highly valuable main altarpiece and decorative details that invite quiet contemplation.
Panoramic views of the natural surroundings
From the collegiate church, visitors can enjoy one of the finest views of Alquézar and the Vero canyon. This natural viewpoint offers a privileged perspective of the surrounding landscape, especially at sunrise or sunset, when the changing light transforms the colours of the terrain.
A protected and well-preserved historic ensemble
Thanks to its outstanding heritage, Alquézar was declared a Historic-Artistic Site in 1982. This recognition has helped protect and restore many architectural elements that define the village’s identity: gateways, walls, cisterns, communal ovens and even old mills.
A commitment to conservation
The effort to preserve its authenticity has made Alquézar not only a tourist destination but also a model for rural heritage conservation in Spain. The restoration of houses, streets and shared spaces has been carried out using traditional techniques and original materials whenever possible.
Beyond stone walls
Visitors will find more than history carved in stone. The interpretation centre of the Vero River Cultural Park provides valuable context about the archaeological and ethnographic importance of the area, including the prehistoric rock art found nearby, which has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
In addition, Alquézar plays an active role in the region’s cultural life, hosting events, temporary exhibitions and guided tours that allow visitors to delve deeper into its rich past.
Visit Alquézar and make Hotel Villa de Alquézar your base
Exploring Alquézar is an experience that combines culture, landscape and authenticity. Whether strolling through the old town, visiting the collegiate church or simply getting lost in its streets, visitors leave with the feeling of having experienced something truly special.
Your base for discovering the Somontano region
Hotel Villa de Alquézar is strategically located so that all of this can be enjoyed on foot. With rooms offering views, a warm and family-friendly atmosphere and an exceptional natural setting, it is the ideal accommodation for those who want to discover the past without giving up modern comfort.
From here, guests can also easily access nature trails, wineries and unique experiences throughout the Sierra de Guara.
Book your stay and come experience the history, beauty and tranquillity of one of the most beautiful villages in Aragón.