Sacred art, cathedrals, and faith trails shape a revitalized religious tourism in Aragon

Through the Aragón con Alma initiative, the Government of Aragon has committed to consolidating its spiritual heritage as the cornerstone of a distinctive tourism experience, highlighting its pilgrimage routes, sacred legacy, and extensive network of cathedrals and monasteries. The result is a product crafted to captivate both devout pilgrims and those drawn to religious history and culture, all within a sustainable and professional tourism framework. The destination has secured a key position on the spiritual-tourism map, thanks to its deep-rooted connection with Marian devotion. This region is home to some of Spain’s most significant pilgrimage sites—headed up by the Basilica del Pilar, which welcomes over four million visitors each year, and the Sanctuary of Torreciudad, which has seen more than 12 million pilgrims pass through since its opening five decades ago. Alongside this, Aragon presents a remarkable network of cathedrals showcasing diverse architectural styles: from the Cathedral of Jaca, a trailblazer of the peninsular Romanesque style, to Mudéjar cathedrals such as those in Tarazona, Teruel, and La Seo, all recognized as UNESCO World Heritage.

In addition to its UNESCO recognition, the Cathedral of Santa María de Mediavilla in Teruel has been labelled a Property of Cultural Interest and a Historic-Artistic Monument © Shutterstock

Pilgrimage routes such as the French Way of Saint James, the Jacobean Way of the Ebro, and the Holy Grail Route add a rich symbolic and cultural layer to the region’s attractions. All this is complemented by a vibrant monastic heritage, made up of sites like the Monastery of San Juan de la Peña, the Cartuja del Aula Dei, and the Monastery of Santa María del Olivar, all of which are still home to active religious communities today. This region has been honored as a Founding Member of the World Religious Tourism Network, reinforcing its standing in a global market that attracts 150 million travelers annually. Within this context, and in anticipation of the Catholic Church’s 2025 Jubilee Year, Aragon has appointed some 20 jubilee churches to welcome pilgrims, presenting a unique opportunity to offer a robust and sustainable spiritual experience throughout the year.