Located at the entrance to the Sierra y Cañones de Guara Natural Park, Alquézar is a unique medieval village. Its name comes from the Arabic word al-Qasr, meaning “the fortress,” in reference to its imposing castle, built in the 9th century. This defensive origin would forever mark the history of the place.

The history of Alquézar is deeply linked to its strategic location above the Vero River canyon. It was founded as an Islamic fortress to control access to Barbastro and the Ebro Valley, and reconquered by Sancho Ramírez in the 11th century. From then on, the fortress was transformed into a Christian collegiate church, and the town center began to grow around it.

For centuries, Alquézar prospered as a transit point, agricultural village, and religious center. The narrow cobblestone streets, stone houses with wrought-iron balconies, and vaulted passageways are a direct legacy of that era. Today, the layout of the town has barely changed, making it a true historical treasure.

Alquézar not only preserves its medieval soul, but has also managed to revalue it with respect and sustainability. Thanks to this, it has received important recognitions that position it as one of the most special towns in the country… and the world.

Since 2015, Alquézar has been part of the network of the Most Beautiful Villages in Spain, an exclusive group that recognizes the preservation of its heritage, natural environment, and architectural beauty.

In 2022, Alquézar was selected by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) as one of the Best Tourism Villages of the World, a program that recognizes villages that promote sustainable tourism, rural development, and the protection of cultural heritage. Alquézar was one of only three villages in Spain to receive this recognition that year.

This international award puts Alquézar on the global map as a model of responsible tourism, conservation, and authenticity.

• Fewer than 300 people live in Alquézar, but it receives thousands of visitors every year.

• Its original Arabic name, Al-Qasr, is the same as the Spanish word “alcázar.”

• Protecting heritage has been a priority for residents for decades.