The World Tourism Organization says: the most beautiful town in Spain is in Teruel

Aragon, a land of contrasts and spectacular landscapes, is home to some of the most beautiful villages in Spain. Nestled between mountains, valleys and endless plateaus, the villages of Aragon stand out for their uniqueness, history, tranquillity and a heritage that has endured over the centuries. From the foothills of the  Pyrenees to the heart of the Maestrazgo, these rural settings are a refuge of traditions, medieval architecture and a natural environment of surprising beauty, ideal for taking a break, breathing and disconnecting from the daily grind.

Located in the heart of the Maestrazgo region, in the province of Teruel, Cantavieja has been considered one of the most beautiful villages in Spain by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and, therefore, the most beautiful village in Aragon. Thanks to its historical heritage, its impressive landscapes and its medieval character that seems frozen in time, this charming place offers a unique experience to its visitors. In this article, we will explore why Cantavieja deserves the title of “The most beautiful village in Spain”, what to see in Cantavieja and how to get to this municipality.

CANTAVIEJA IN TERUEL, THE MOST BEAUTIFUL VILLAGE IN SPAIN

Why has Cantavieja been recognised as one of the most beautiful villages in Spain? There are many reasons that justify this distinction. Firstly, its incredible preservation over time and its medieval style immerse you in an atmosphere of another time. The stone houses, narrow streets and squares evoke a bygone era that few places manage to keep intact.

The historic centre of Cantavieja (Teruel) is the main attraction, with monuments that tell centuries of history. Of particular note is Calle Mayor, which leads to the porticoed square where the town hall, the church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción, with a style that mixes baroque and gothic, and Casa Zurita meet. In addition, Cantavieja was a Carlist stronghold and its legacy is present in many corners of the town and in the museum of the same name.

But beyond its heritage, the town offers great scenic beauty. From its viewing points you can enjoy panoramic views of the Maestrazgo mountain ranges, a natural environment that, together with the architecture, creates a setting that is worth visiting.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN CANTAVIEJA

As well as being the most beautiful town in Spain, Cantavieja is a perfect destination for both history lovers and those looking to enjoy nature. Here are some of the essential activities and places that you can’t miss:

– Arcaded square: this is the heart of Cantavieja. Surrounded by emblematic buildings such as the Town Hall, the Church of the Assumption and manor houses, it is the ideal starting point to begin exploring the town. The arcades and architecture of the square will take you back to the Middle Ages.

– Church of the Assumption: this church, built in the 18th century, is one of the most outstanding examples of Baroque art in the region. However, the main door and the arches of the market are Gothic in style, a clear reference to earlier times.

– Former Templar Castle and Calvary: Although in ruins, the castle remains a testimony to the strategic importance of this enclave. In this space, only the walls of the outer enclosure and the remains of a circular tower converted into the hermitage of the Holy Sepulchre are preserved. From there, you can contemplate an impressive view of the surroundings.

– Museum of the Carlist Wars: Cantavieja was a key centre during the Carlist Wars of the 19th century. The museum tells the story of this conflict and shows how it affected local life and the development of the town, highlighting personalities such as General Cabrera, nicknamed “The Tiger of Maestrazgo”. The entrance fee to the museum is 1.5 euros.

– Strolling through the old town: simply strolling through Cantavieja is an activity in itself. Its cobbled streets, stone houses and peaceful atmosphere make every corner tell a story.

– Hiking and nature: the surroundings of Cantavieja are a paradise for hikers. You can take routes through the Sierras del Maestrazgo, where you will discover mountainous landscapes, deep valleys and ravines. In addition, the routes will take you to small hidden corners full of natural charm.

HOW TO GET TO CANTAVIEJA

Getting to Cantavieja may seem like a trip to a remote corner, but this is part of its charm. Below, we explain the main routes by which you can access it:

– From Teruel: the provincial capital is about 90 kilometres from Cantavieja. The most direct route is via the N-420 to Alcañiz, where you take the A-226 which leads directly to Cantavieja. The journey takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes by car.

– From Zaragoza: the city of Zaragoza is about 185 kilometres away. To get to Cantavieja, you must take the A-223 towards Teruel and then join the A-226 in Alcorisa. This journey will take you about 2 and a half hours by car.

– From Huesca: the capital of Huesca is about 245 kilometres away. To get to Cantavieja, it is advisable to take the N-232. The journey will take approximately 3 hours and 10 minutes.

– From Valencia: for travellers coming from the Valencian Community, the journey is approximately 170 kilometres. The quickest route is via the V-23, then connecting with the CV-13 and then the A-226. The journey takes about 2 hours.

– By public transport: Cantavieja does not have a wide range of public transport options. There are some buses that connect with the main cities in the region, but it is best to have your own vehicle to make the most of the area.