Albarracin is arguably one of the prettiest towns in Spain, perched on a rocky headland above a loop of the Guadalaviar River. It lies in the heart of the Sierra de Albarracín and is clustered with pink-hued buildings constructed using local gypsum. Albarracin is renowned for its eclectically-designed cathedral and a crumbling alcazar dating back to Islamic rule.
Things to do in Albarracín
On a clifftop in the heart of Albarracin are the ruins of a Moorish castle, which offers magnificent views across the town. Also of note is the Torre del Andador, a defensive tower that was established in the 10th century by Muslim rulers. It forms part of the ridge-top Murallas de Albarracín, a system of encircling walls that were expanded following the Siege of Albarracin when Pedro III of Aragon conquered the town.
Nestled beneath the castle is the Albarracín Cathedral, a beautifully restored religious monument combining Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles. Highlights of the interior include several frescoes and an original altarpiece, as well as a retablo painting by Cosme Damian Bas dating back to 1566. Accessed through the cathedral’s cloister is the Diocesan Museum, where religious treasures and Flemish tapestries are on display.
Travelling with kids? Don’t miss a visit to the Eustaquio Foundation Castilian, a charming toy museum that is a short stroll across the Guadalaviar River. Its impressive collection of vintage toys, games and children’s memorabilia date from the late 19th century to the 1970s.
Getting around Albarracín
Albarracin is around two hours’ drive from Valencia Airport or 3.5 hours from Madrid-Barajas Adolfo Suárez Airport. Buses connect Albarracin to destinations across the region while the centre of town is ideally explored on foot.