Culture and Heritage
Jaca is a city full of culture and heritage. It’s known for its Romanesque art, present in several of its most iconic buildings, and for its historical importance in the story of Aragón.
Depending on when you visit, you might also enjoy the Festival of the Pyrenees or the city’s most traditional celebration: El Primer Viernes de Mayo.
Here are some must-see places while you’re here:
Ciudadela de Jaca & Museum of Military Miniatures
Ciudadela de Jaca is a pentagon-shaped fortress that began construction in the late 16th century. Seen from above, it forms a striking star shape. It still preserves all its original elements: moat, bastions, escarpments, barracks, powder magazines, tunnels… and a beautiful entrance accessed via a drawbridge.
Inside, you’ll find the Museum of Military Miniatures, with detailed lead figurines recreating historical battles and scenes. Originally built to defend the Pyrenean border, today it’s one of the most visited landmarks in Jaca, perfect for touring inside or enjoying a stroll around its grassy surroundings.
San Pedro Cathedral & Jaca Diocesan Museum
Built in the late 11th century, Jaca’s cathedral is one of the finest and most influential examples of Spanish Romanesque architecture. Its construction is closely tied to the founding of the city and its importance on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route.
Inside, you’ll find the Jaca Diocesan Museum, home to what’s considered one of the world’s most beautiful collections of Romanesque wall paintings.
Covering more than 2,000 m², the museum showcases a remarkable collection of medieval art, making it one of the most important museums of its kind worldwide.
Clock Tower, Calle Mayor, Jaca Town Hall & Paseo de la Constitución
The Clock Tower is a Gothic civil structure from 1445, located in the old town. After a fire damaged part of the cathedral and its prison facilities, the tower served as a temporary jail—hence its two names: Clock Tower and Prison Tower.
Calle Mayor, home to Jaca’s Town Hall, runs from the Benedictine Monastery to Paseo de la Constitución, a lovely park with a playground—perfect for a family stroll. You’ll probably walk through Calle Mayor during your visit anyway, especially if you’re out for tapas in Jaca’s historic center.
Benedictine Monastery (Las Benitas)
Known locally as Las Benitas, this Romanesque monastery sits at the end of Calle Mayor. Though it may go unnoticed by visitors, it’s a key piece of Jaca’s architectural heritage. Part of the building is integrated into the city’s former wall and offers charming views of Peña Oroel.
Paseo de La Cantera, Monument to La Jacetania & Fuente de la Salud
A peaceful walk through this beautiful greenway is one of the most relaxing things to do in Jaca. Paseo de La Cantera borders the back of the Citadel and starts at Paseo de la Constitucion. Stop at the viewpoint for scenic views of Puente de San Miguel, nearby villages, and the Canal de Berdún.
Along the way, you’ll find the Monument to La Jacetania and the Fuente de la Salud, a symbolic fountain that replaced Jaca’s beloved Árbol de la Salud (Tree of Health), which was sadly cut down in 2012.
Around Jaca
San Juan de la Peña Monastery
Just 10 minutes from Santa Cruz de la Seros and about 30 minutes from Jaca, this stunning monastery is a must-see. Nestled under a massive rock and surrounded by forest, it’s full of Aragon’s history and includes viewpoints with spectacular views. Definitely worth visiting when it’s open.
Nearby Villages
Santa Cruz de la Serós
Just 20 minutes from Jaca on the way to Puente la Reina, this charming Pyrenean village is part of the Camino de Santiago. Its lovely Romanesque architecture and peaceful streets make it well worth a visit.
Borau
Located in La Jacetania, just 20 minutes from Jaca, Borau is a great spot for a quiet stroll along its cobbled streets. Be sure to visit the Parish Church of Santa Eulalia, which overlooks the village. It’s especially beautiful in winter, when snow covers the rooftops.
Ainsa
(Not to be confused with Aísa!) Aínsa is in the Sobrarbe region, about an hour from Jaca, and is considered one of the most beautiful villages in Spain—a title it has earned multiple times.
With its mix of history, culture, nature, and traditional cuisine, Aínsa is a great day trip, especially if you combine it with a visit to Ordesa and Monte Perdido National Park.