Calatayud is a city in Aragon, Spain. It is located 85 km from Zaragoza and approximately 230km from Madrid. It is the fourth largest city of Aragon, after the provinincial capitals, Zaragoza, Teruel and Huesca. The population is around 18,000 and Calatayud is at an altitude of 530 metres on the river Jalon.
The city has a wide range of shops, bars, restaurants and accommodation. The mudejar towers of churches in the old city heart or casco are renowned. Dominating the skyline is a castle, parts of which date back to 850 AD. The Roman town, Bilbilis, lies four kilometres from the modern town.
Calatayud lies just off the main highway (A2-E90) between Madrid (2 hours) and Zaragoza (1 hour).
The nearest airports are Madrid (Barajas) and Zaragoza.
Calatayud is served by regular high speed trains (AVE) from Madrid and Zaragoza. (dead link: January 2023)
Buses are available from Zaragoza.
The city is quite small and it is possible to walk to all parts.
There is a city bus service operated by Aragon Tours, who also offer services to surrounding towns and villages.
RENFE offers a local rail service to towns between Ariza and Zaragoza.
Many of the old churches are in the mujedar style. This style was devloped by Muslim craftsmen who stayed in Aragon after the reconquest.
There is a small market in 'Plaza España', several supermarkets and a range of other shops.
A wide range of restaurants are available. Amongst the most notable are:
A wide range of pensions are available:
2nd-order administrative division
Primary administrative division