The Route of the Sieges: Discover Heroic Zaragoza with a smart strategy
Zaragoza is known worldwide for two things: the Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar and its resistance. Between 1808 and 1809, the city stood up to the most powerful army in the world, that of Napoleon Bonaparte. This history isn't just in books; it's written in the stones, on the facades, and in the squares that define the city.
Tour the Route of the Sites It's an exciting but intense journey. To enjoy it to the fullest, you need a good strategy: Hotel Las Ventas located just outside Zaragoza, it offers you the perfect base of operations. Enjoy rapid connection to the battlefield and return to a peaceful environment for "warrior's rest," far from the urban bustle and at a much more competitive price.
What to see on the Route of the Sites?
Here are the must-see landmarks that you can easily visit on foot from the train stations:
1. Puerta del Carmen: The survivor
If you get off at the station of Portillo, you'll be very close to the Puerta del Carmen. It is the only one of the city's 12 gates still standing. Its appearance will overwhelm you: it is not a ruin, it is a testament. Its structure is riddled with bullet and cannon fire, yet it remains standing as a symbol of resistance.
2. Plaza de los Sitios: The Tribute
If you get off at the station Goya You will appear a few steps from the Plaza de los Sitios It is one of the most beautiful gardens in the city, built on the old orchard of Santa Engracia where the fiercest battles were fought.
The Monument: In the center stands a sculptural masterpiece where you can identify heroines such as Augustine of Aragon or General Palafox.
Museum of Zaragoza: Located in the same square, it houses oil paintings and engravings from the period that will help you visualize the battle.
3. Church of Santa Engracia
Near the Place des Sieges, this church houses in its crypt the remains of the "Masses of the Sieges" (the fallen defenders). Its Renaissance façade, rebuilt after the French destruction, is an unmissable visual gem.
4. The Pillar and the Bombs That Did Not Explode
Your route can end with a walk towards the Ebro. Inside the Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar hanging on a column in the Sainte-Chapelle, you will see two bombs dropped by the French army that, miraculously, did not explode.
The detail:As you leave, take a look at the exterior facade. You can still see signs of impacts.of the artillery.
Your hotel: Rest after the battle
Exploring history is tiring. The Route of the Sites involves walking and absorbing a lot of information.
The strategic advantage: While other tourists pay inflated prices for noisy hotels in the city center, you can return in a few minutes to the tranquility of the outskirts of Zaragoza.
The experience: Imagine spending the day reliving the epic events of 1808 and returning to the Hotel Europa for a relaxing dinner and a peaceful rest. Plus, the savings on accommodation will allow you to spend more on dining or museum tickets.
A journey of honor and memory
The Zaragoza of the Sieges is a story of passion and the defense of freedom. Visiting it is a perfect plan, and doing so with logistical savvy is the key to enjoying it.
Make your visit a complete experience: intense history by day, absolute rest by night.
History, culture and the best value for money.
👉 Book your room at Hotel Las Ventas and plan your historical route
