Daroca

Circular from the rural school

The “Circular from the rural school” project is a cooperation project between rural development groups led by the Asociación Territorio Mudéjar.

The following have participated in the project: ADRI Calatayud-Aranda, ADRI Jiloca-Gallocanta, FEDIVALCA -Valdejalón and Campo de Cariñena-, ASOMO Tarazona and el Moncayo, CEDEMAR -Bajo Aragón Caspe and Ribera Baja del Ebro-, ADRAE -Ribera Alta del Ebro- and ADEFO Cinco Villas.

The objective is to develop educational materials around the Mudejar identity of the towns, placing rural schools and the educational community of the towns as the center of the project.

Based on the work developed, for almost three years, the students of fifteen schools have designed a walk through their town in which we can learn about the main points of interest and their connection with the Mudejar culture.

Daroca

The route has been carried out following the working model of the schools that participated in the project and adapted to the locality of Daroca.

A stroll through the town of Daroca allows us to discover a town planning and appearance similar to that of a medieval town. Watched over by the remains of its ancient castle, the town is very much in keeping with its Mudejar heritage. Some of its architecture is one of the best examples of the transition between Romanesque and Mudejar styles. We will also discover treasures of its civil architecture such as the unknown Palacio de los Luna. Stopping points and educational activities.

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1. History of the town

Daroca was founded in the 8th century by the Muslims. Previously there is evidence of settlements of Celtiberian origin in the ravines near the Calle Mayor. The town was of special importance and formed part of the so-called Marca Superior of the Emirate of Córdoba, together with Calatayud and Zaragoza. The castle is more of a fortified enclosure, comprising two castles situated on hills and linked by almost four kilometres of walls and towers. The settlement of the Arabs in the territory for almost five centuries left its mark and an influence on the way of life that we still inherit today.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 1.

2. Water and agriculture

Water is the most important principle of the universe according to the Koran. It is a divine symbol, since water is necessary for life. It is also present in the Muslims’ idea of their Paradise. For the Mudejars, who were also Muslims, water was fundamental. The river Jiloca flows through Daroca, around which a large Mudejar population was concentrated in medieval times, and therefore many monuments. The Muslims brought with them fruit and vegetables. However, this is a rather dry place, so the Arabs pioneered the introduction of irrigation techniques in the rural world. Some examples are waterwheels, waterwheels, cisterns and the most common, irrigation ditches. In Daroca we have an example of a cistern and an example of a qanat.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 6

3. Construction materials

The Mudéjars were particularly skilled in the construction of buildings of unique technical characteristics and beauty. In Daroca we have a particular way of construction: the lower part of the monuments is made of stone, passing later to brick to finish the buildings. This represents a change of style: from Romanesque to Mudejar. The most common materials used are clay, plaster, wood and alabaster.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 3

4. Mudejar architecture

The Mudéjars made many types of buildings, depending on the function and the person who commissioned them. The towers have a very complex chronological and structural development. They could have two functions, either military or watchtowers, or bell towers. The tower of the church of Santo Domingo is a bell tower, which stands out because its first body is earlier than the rest, and it had a defensive function.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 5.

5. Coexistence of cultures

The Christians allowed the Muslims, the previous settlers, to remain in the territory. They allowed them to maintain their religion and customs, but forced them to live segmented, in neighbourhoods that we call “morerías”. In Daroca, we have preserved the Moorish and Jewish quarters. The streets are narrow and winding, full of alleyways and lanes, and the colour white predominates. Moreover, following the tradition of the Muslim house, where life is lived behind closed doors, thus preserving privacy.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 2

6. Patronage

The main patrons of Mudejar art were the monarchy, the Church, nobles and military orders. The Luna family was one of the most important and influential in medieval times. It formed part of the great elite of society, and several of its members held important positions: Maria de Luna was queen and Benedict XIII was pope.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 7

Cosuenda

Circular from the rural school

The “Circular from the rural school” project is a cooperation project between rural development groups led by the Asociación Territorio Mudéjar.

The following have participated in the project: ADRI Calatayud-Aranda, ADRI Jiloca-Gallocanta, FEDIVALCA -Valdejalón and Campo de Cariñena-, ASOMO Tarazona and el Moncayo, CEDEMAR -Bajo Aragón Caspe and Ribera Baja del Ebro-, ADRAE -Ribera Alta del Ebro- and ADEFO Cinco Villas.

The objective is to develop educational materials around the Mudejar identity of the towns, placing rural schools and the educational community of the towns as the center of the project.

Based on the work developed, for almost three years, the students of fifteen schools have designed a walk through their town in which we can learn about the main points of interest and their connection with the Mudejar culture.

Cosuenda

The tour has been carried out following the working model of the schools that participated in the project and adapted to the town of Cosuenda.

In the town of Cosuenda, its defensive origins are evident from the first point along the route: the Lisalta tower, from where we can see the whole town from a bird’s eye view. Continuing on and going down to continue the walk you will find the wine cellars, built with local materials. Finally, we will go to the church of Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles to understand the permanence of Mudejar materials and construction techniques over the centuries.

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1. History of the town

The Muslims who remained after the Christian conquest became known as Mudejars, and preserved their religion, culture and customs. The oldest medieval remains in Cosuenda are those of the castle, built in the 14th century to protect the town. It is called the Lisalta tower and is located in the highest part of the village, from where we can see the whole village and the Sierra de Algairén.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 1.

2. Construction materials

The Mudéjars were particularly skilled in the construction of buildings of unique technical characteristics and beauty. The materials used by the Mudejars are materials that can be found in the surroundings, what we would call, of proximity. In Cosuenda, we can observe the construction materials used for Mudejar monuments applied to other types of construction for domestic use. Houses and cellars, created for everyday use, so, although in Cosuenda we do not have a Mudejar monument, we can understand the materials and their repeated use over time through other constructions.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 3

3. Importance of water and landscape

Water is the most important principle of the universe according to the Koran. It is a divine symbol, since water is necessary for life. It is also present in the Muslims’ idea of their Paradise. For the Mudejars, who were also Muslims, water was fundamental. In Cosuenda we find El Barranco, through which water is channelled, running through the middle of the town in the form of a small stream. In Cosuenda there is a centre for the interpretation of the fauna and flora of the Sierra de Algairén called Plantaria.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 6

4. Coexistence of cultures

The Christians allowed the Muslims to stay in the territory, as they were necessary to sustain the local economy. They kept their religion and customs, but they had to live separately, in neighbourhoods that we call morerías, just as the Jews did in the Jewish quarters. In Cosuenda we would probably have all kinds of populations, coexisting indistinctly throughout the entire hamlet.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 2

5. Reminiscences of the Mudejar style

Mudejar art came to an end in the 17th century, when the Moors (Muslims converted to Christianity) were expelled from the territory. However, we have a style that has survived through the centuries. This is undoubtedly due to sharing a culture and a territory for so many centuries. This is why, in several later constructions, we find ornamental elements, materials and construction techniques that remind us of the Mudejar style and that give us a clue to the importance it had, and still has in our territory. This is the case of the church of Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles in Cosuenda, although of Baroque construction, Mudejar reminiscences can be observed. Moreover, following the tradition of the Muslim dwelling, where life is lived behind closed doors, thus preserving privacy. The gates that we have passed through along the route were what separated one neighbourhood from another.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 7

Longares

Circular from the rural school

The “Circular from the rural school” project is a cooperation project between rural development groups led by the Asociación Territorio Mudéjar.

The following have participated in the project: ADRI Calatayud-Aranda, ADRI Jiloca-Gallocanta, FEDIVALCA -Valdejalón and Campo de Cariñena-, ASOMO Tarazona and el Moncayo, CEDEMAR -Bajo Aragón Caspe and Ribera Baja del Ebro-, ADRAE -Ribera Alta del Ebro- and ADEFO Cinco Villas.

The objective is to develop educational materials around the Mudejar identity of the towns, placing rural schools and the educational community of the towns as the center of the project.

Based on the work developed, for almost three years, the students of fifteen schools have designed a walk through their town in which we can learn about the main points of interest and their connection with the Mudejar culture.

Longares

The route has been carried out following the working model of the schools that participated in the project and adapted to the town of Longares.

Longares was a walled town, with different entrance gates, which separated the walled enclosure of the town from the outside. We are going to cross some of them to be able to walk through its urban layout, which leads us to a singular example of the Mudejar tower of the church of the Asunción Nuestra Señora de Longares.

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1. History of the town

According to its etymology, Longares comes from Latin, which is probably why we can already find some kind of settlement from this period. When the territory was conquered by the Christians in 1118, the Muslim population living in the walled town became known as Mudejar. In Longares, the Mudejar culture can be seen in its main monument, but also in the layout of the farmhouse and in the agricultural techniques that have been preserved.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 1.

2. Mudejar Architecture

The Mudéjars were particularly skilled in the construction of buildings of unique technical characteristics and beauty. The main monument in Longares is the tower of the church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción. According to its structure and decoration, the tower was built in the second half of the 14th century. It formed part of a complex with the old Mudejar church, of which a canvas is still preserved.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 5.

3. Materials

The materials used by the Mudejars can be found in what we would call the local environment. In Longares, we can observe the construction materials used for Mudéjar monuments applied to other types of domestic construction. The main materials used are: clay, plaster, alabaster and wood, applied to both the interior and exterior of the buildings.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 2

4. Coexistence of cultures

The coexistence of Christian, Muslim and Jewish cultures is what made up medieval society in our territory. After the Christian conquest we can speak of Mudejar. Some of the streets that we can walk through today in the town show us the vestiges of its medieval past, reflected in its urban layout of Islamic tradition, with winding streets, nooks and crannies.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 3

5. Reminiscences of the Mudejar style

We could say that Mudejar art came to an end in the 17th century, when the Moors (Mudejars who converted to Christianity) were expelled from the Iberian Peninsula. However, we can see how the style survived throughout the following centuries. This is why, in various constructions, we find ornamental elements, construction techniques and materials that remind us of the Mudejar style.

During the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, medieval styles were revived, which became known as neo-medievalism. In the case of Mudejar, we will have a current that will be called Neo-Mudejar. In Longares there are several examples of this artistic trend.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 7

Illueca

Circular from the rural school

The “Circular from the rural school” project is a cooperation project between rural development groups led by the Asociación Territorio Mudéjar.

The following have participated in the project: ADRI Calatayud-Aranda, ADRI Jiloca-Gallocanta, FEDIVALCA -Valdejalón and Campo de Cariñena-, ASOMO Tarazona and el Moncayo, CEDEMAR -Bajo Aragón Caspe and Ribera Baja del Ebro-, ADRAE -Ribera Alta del Ebro- and ADEFO Cinco Villas.

The objective is to develop educational materials around the Mudejar identity of the towns, placing rural schools and the educational community of the towns as the center of the project.

Based on the work developed, for almost three years, the students of fifteen schools have designed a walk through their town in which we can learn about the main points of interest and their connection with the Mudejar culture.

Illueca

The route has been carried out following the working model of the schools that participated in the project and adapted to the town of Illueca.

Illueca, like the other villages in the valleys of the Aranda and Isuela rivers, had a strong Mudejar population that coexisted with Christian and Jewish communities. On top of a rocky spur stands the castle-palace of the Count of Argillo, popularly known as the castle of Pope Luna. This was the birthplace of one of the most important and influential figures of the medieval period in Spain and abroad, who was also a great patron of Mudejar art: Pedro Martínez de Luna, who was appointed Pope in Avignon as Benedict XIII, known as “Papa Luna”.

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1. History of the town

On the hillside, at the foot of the castle, there is an urban hamlet of historic character, very different from the new areas of expansion due to its Jewish-Muslim street layout, in which the numerous bends in the streets stand out, forming attractive corners of the façades, which combine the whitewashing of the simplest houses with the brick of the noblest buildings such as the Casa Saldaña.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 1.

2. Patronage

Mudejar art is art made by Mudejars and commissioned by Christians. But among Christians, only those who formed part of the social elite of medieval times could afford to commission buildings of such mastery. The castle-palace of Illueca is closely linked to the figure of Pope Luna. It has many phases of construction between the 16th and 17th centuries.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 2

3. Master builders

The Mudéjars were particularly skilled in the construction of buildings of unique technical characteristics and beauty. They were highly sought after by the great patrons of the time and their works were in the taste of the time. Some of the names of these masters have survived, such as Mahoram Calahorri and Mahoram Rami. In particular, Mahoram Rami was Benedict XIII’s favourite master builder and is associated with some of the elements built in the palace.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 4

4. Importance of water and landscape

The Arabs were pioneers in the introduction of irrigation techniques in the rural world. Examples include waterwheels, waterwheels, cisterns and the most common, irrigation ditches. The introduction of agricultural products and techniques also favoured local crops, which grew better and faster. In addition, the idea of the agricultural landscape was generated, which is fundamental for understanding our localities. From here there is a marvellous view of the Moncayo.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 6

5. Mudejar architecture

Mudejar architecture was established between the 12th century, when the territory inhabited by the Muslims was conquered by the Christians, and the 17th century, when the Moors (Mudejars converted to Christianity) were expelled. The interior of the parish church of St. John the Baptist shows us the survival of the Islamic tradition through the Baroque plasterwork carried out by the master Juan de Marca at the end of the 17th century.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 5.

6. Reminiscence

There are some buildings built after the expulsion of the Moors. These buildings allow us to talk about the use of materials and construction techniques of Islamic tradition that have continued to be used over time in our territory. We can speak of survival or reminiscences until the 60s of the 20th century.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 7

Fuentes de Ebro

Circular from the rural school

The “Circular from the rural school” project is a cooperation project between rural development groups led by the Asociación Territorio Mudéjar.

The following have participated in the project: ADRI Calatayud-Aranda, ADRI Jiloca-Gallocanta, FEDIVALCA -Valdejalón and Campo de Cariñena-, ASOMO Tarazona and el Moncayo, CEDEMAR -Bajo Aragón Caspe and Ribera Baja del Ebro-, ADRAE -Ribera Alta del Ebro- and ADEFO Cinco Villas.

The objective is to develop educational materials around the Mudejar identity of the towns, placing rural schools and the educational community of the towns as the center of the project.

Based on the work developed, for almost three years, the students of fifteen schools have designed a walk through their town in which we can learn about the main points of interest and their connection with the Mudejar culture.

Fuentes de Ebro

The tour has been carried out following the working model of the schools that participated in the project and adapted to the town of Fuentes de Ebro.

During the walk through the town of Fuentes de Ebro we will visit its old quarter, starting at the Moorish quarter, stopping at the church of San Miguel Arcángel and at some examples of Mudejar reminiscences in the Calle Mayor. We will also visit the old village of Rodén, from where we can better understand the use of local materials to build monuments and houses, as well as the surrounding landscape.

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1. History of the town

The oldest remains of evidence of population in the area of Fuentes de Ebro are located at the Corona site, and correspond to the 2nd Iron Age and the Roman period. The same territory was later conquered by the Muslims, who left a deep mark on the territory.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 1.

2. Coexistence of cultures

The Christians conquered the Muslims, and from this point onwards we can speak of Mudejar. During this period, Muslims, Christians and Jews coexisted in the territory, giving rise to the Moorish and Jewish quarters. The Moorish quarter that we have preserved in Fuentes de Ebro is a vestige of its medieval past, reflected in its urban layout of Islamic tradition.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 2

3. Mudejar architecture

The Mudéjars were particularly skilled in the construction of buildings of unique technical characteristics and beauty. His works were highly sought after by the great patrons of the time. The church of San Miguel has been greatly transformed, but we can still locate the floor plan of the Mudejar building.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 4

4. Reminiscences of the Mudejar style

Mudejar art came to an end in the 17th century, when the Moors were expelled. However, we have a style that has survived through the centuries. This is why, in several later constructions, we find elements and materials that remind us of the Mudéjar style.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 7

5. Construction materials

One of the important moments in the 15th century in the town of Rodén was the construction of part of the church of San Martín. It is made of plaster, brick and walling, reminiscent of the materials of the Islamic tradition, those used by the Mudejars.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 3

6. Landscape

The landscape of Rodén allows us to understand the layout of the localities on the banks of the rivers, such as the Ginel and the Ebro, and the use of local materials for construction, in this case, gypsum and alabaster.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 6

San Mateo de Gállego

Circular from the rural school

The “Circular from the rural school” project is a cooperation project between rural development groups led by the Asociación Territorio Mudéjar.

The following have participated in the project: ADRI Calatayud-Aranda, ADRI Jiloca-Gallocanta, FEDIVALCA -Valdejalón and Campo de Cariñena-, ASOMO Tarazona and el Moncayo, CEDEMAR -Bajo Aragón Caspe and Ribera Baja del Ebro-, ADRAE -Ribera Alta del Ebro- and ADEFO Cinco Villas.

The objective is to develop educational materials around the Mudejar identity of the towns, placing rural schools and the educational community of the towns as the center of the project.

Based on the work developed, for almost three years, the students of fifteen schools have designed a walk through their town in which we can learn about the main points of interest and their connection with the Mudejar culture.

San Mateo de Gállego

The tour has been carried out following the working model of the schools that participated in the project and adapted to the town of San Mateo de Gállego.

San Mateo de Gállego has witnessed the passage of different cultures, especially Roman and Muslim. However, in our tour of the town we go back to the medieval village founded by the Aragonese King Alfonso I the Battler shortly before the conquest of the city of Zaragoza in 1118, becoming a village dependent on the nearby town of Zuera. Stopping points and educational activities.

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1. History of the town

The materials used by the Mudejars can be found in the immediate vicinity of the landscape, what we would call ‘local materials’. The main materials used for construction are clay, plaster, alabaster and wood. In the valley of the river Gállego we have an abundance of all of them. This, together with the existence of a Mudejar population, made the construction of various monuments possible.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 1.

2. Construction materials

The river Gállego did not always have the appearance that we see today, as in the past the water reached as far as the ravine. A series of actions were carried out at the end of the 1970s to shorten the meander in order to protect the church of San Mateo Apóstol and provide it with a more stable base.

After the Christian conquest, the Jewish and Muslim populations remained in the territory, otherwise there would have been serious economic problems and depopulation. It was the coexistence of these three cultures that led to the emergence of the Mudéjar style.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 3

2. Mudejar Architecture

The Church of San Mateo Apóstol was built during the first decades of the 16th century in the Mudejar style. The temple was attached to an earlier tower, the lower part of which dates from the 14th century, and may have formed part of the old walled enclosure of the medieval town, as a defensive tower. On the façade, the ornamental motifs repeat those of the tower and it has a typical Aragonese gallery of semicircular arches.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 4

3. Reminiscences of the Mudejar

Mudejar art came to an end in the 17th century, when the Moors (Mudejars who converted to Christianity) were expelled. However, we have a style that has survived through the centuries. This is why, in several later constructions, we find elements that remind us of the Mudejar style. San Mateo de Gállego has several examples of reminiscences of Mudejar materials, construction techniques and ornamentation.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 5.

4. Importance of water

The Camarera irrigation channel is one of the four irrigation channels of the Lower Gállego, which originated in the 12th and 13th centuries. Tradition has it that it was founded by King James I the Conqueror in 1263 at the request of a chamberlain of his court in order to irrigate the lands within the municipality of San Mateo de Gállego, for which a weir had to be built.

Water is closely linked to Mudéjar art, as it is a key element for its materialisation in construction. It was also a key component in the coexistence of cultures as it was a symbol of religious purification.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 6

Romanos

Circular from the rural school

The “Circular from the rural school” project is a cooperation project between rural development groups led by the Asociación Territorio Mudéjar.

The following have participated in the project: ADRI Calatayud-Aranda, ADRI Jiloca-Gallocanta, FEDIVALCA -Valdejalón and Campo de Cariñena-, ASOMO Tarazona and el Moncayo, CEDEMAR -Bajo Aragón Caspe and Ribera Baja del Ebro-, ADRAE -Ribera Alta del Ebro- and ADEFO Cinco Villas.

The objective is to develop educational materials around the Mudejar identity of the towns, placing rural schools and the educational community of the towns as the center of the project.

Based on the work developed, for almost three years, the students of fifteen schools have designed a walk through their town in which we can learn about the main points of interest and their connection with the Mudejar culture.

Romanos

This walk shows us the work of the pupils of C.P Fernando el Católico de Villarreal de Huerva in the town of Romanos.

Historically, there have been different settlements around Romanos. One of the most prosperous periods in terms of news is the Middle Ages, the period in which we will focus our tour and discourse on the town of Romanos, with emphasis on the tower and fortified church.

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1. History of the town

Near the present-day village of Romanos there were various settlements in the Celtiberian period. Later, during Roman times, there was a population presence, as important communication routes were located in this area. This is the origin of the present name of the town. However, it was undoubtedly the settlement of the Arabs in the vicinity of Romanos that marked the course of the town’s history.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 1.

2. Coexistence of cultures

The settlement of the Arabs in the territory for almost five centuries left a mark and an influence on the way of life that we still inherit today. The Christians conquered the territory where the Muslims lived. These settlers who remained after this conquest came to be called Mudejars, and preserved their religion, culture and customs. They excelled as farmers, craftsmen and builders. For this reason, we have preserved a large number of buildings.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 2

3. Construction materials

The materials used by the Mudejars are materials that can be found in the surroundings, what we would call, of proximity. In this way, we will see how commonly used monuments and constructions are made with the same materials and construction techniques.

In Romanos we are going to see two examples of houses where two construction techniques are used using this fundamental material, mud: adobe and tapia.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 3

4. Water and agriculture

Water is a divine symbol for Muslims. For the Mudejars, Muslims who remained in the Iberian Peninsula after the Christian conquest, water was fundamental.

The Arabs were pioneers in the introduction of irrigation techniques. In Romanos there is an irrigation channel, which irrigates the fields that surround the town and make up its landscape, which changes throughout the seasons.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 6

5. Mudejar architecture

The Mudejars produced works of spectacular technical quality and beauty. They were commissioned by the great Christian lords of the time, as they greatly appreciated their architecture. In Romanos, the main monument is the church of San Pedro. In reality, when it was built, it would not have had the same appearance.

Only the tower remains from the original work, the rest of which dates from centuries later. There are many types of buildings that make up Mudejar architecture, but the construction of churches and towers stands out. The Romanos tower is very complex. This type of tower is known as a door-tower, because its lower part would have a door, which can still be seen today, but is blinded.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 7

Mesones de Isuela

Circular from the rural school

The “Circular from the rural school” project is a cooperation project between rural development groups led by the Asociación Territorio Mudéjar.

The following have participated in the project: ADRI Calatayud-Aranda, ADRI Jiloca-Gallocanta, FEDIVALCA -Valdejalón and Campo de Cariñena-, ASOMO Tarazona and el Moncayo, CEDEMAR -Bajo Aragón Caspe and Ribera Baja del Ebro-, ADRAE -Ribera Alta del Ebro- and ADEFO Cinco Villas.

The objective is to develop educational materials around the Mudejar identity of the towns, placing rural schools and the educational community of the towns as the center of the project.

Based on the work developed, for almost three years, the students of fifteen schools have designed a walk through their town in which we can learn about the main points of interest and their connection with the Mudejar culture.

Mesones de Isuela

The tour has been carried out following the working model of the schools that participated in the project and adapted to the locality of Mesones de Isuela.

In Mesones de Isuela we are welcomed by its imposing castle, the starting point of our walk through the town. From here we have privileged views of the landscape and the town’s urban layout, which we will discover as we walk through its streets. Mesones de Isuela was, since the 13th century, a Mudejar town and its traces are still very much present.

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1. History of the town

There is evidence of different settlements in the territory of Mesones de Isuela, of which the Arab population is particularly noteworthy. As a result of this, the layout of the town has been preserved and, at least since the 13th century, it has been inhabited by Mudejars, who left their mark on the territory. It was also a land of lordship, with the Casa de los Luna, a great patron of Mudejar art, standing out for its imposing castle. Inside, one of the most spectacular Aragonese Mudejar ceilings is preserved.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 1.

2. Water and agriculture

Water is the most important principle of the universe according to the Koran. It is a divine symbol, since water is necessary for life. For the Mudejars, who were also Muslims, water was essential. Moreover, the development of hydraulic engineering and agricultural techniques favoured indigenous crops, which grew better and faster. They also generated the idea of the agricultural landscape that we enjoy today.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 6

3. Coexistence of cultures

The Christians allowed the Muslims, previous settlers, to remain in the territory, as they were necessary to sustain the local economy. In Mesones de Isuela we know that the population coexisted. As a result of this coexistence, we find the urban layout of the town, at the foot of a castle and with a winding layout.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 2

4. Mudejar architecture

The Mudéjars were particularly skilled in the construction of buildings that were highly sought after by the great patrons of the time and their works were in the taste of the time. The materials used by the Mudejars are materials that can be found in the surroundings, what we would call, of proximity. The most common building materials were brick, plaster and wood. They also built many types of buildings, notably towers and churches.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 5.

5. Reminiscences

Calle Herrería is located very close to the church. This place allows us to talk about the use of materials and construction techniques of Islamic tradition that are still used throughout time in our territory.

In 1610 the Moors (Mudejars who converted to Christianity) were expelled from Aragon, which meant the end of the Mudejar style. Even so, we can still find buildings that are built following the same construction tradition. This is what we call the survival of the style, and we can find it in many architectural styles (houses, palaces, churches) until the 1960s.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 7

Villamayor de Gállego

Circular from the rural school

The “Circular from the rural school” project is a cooperation project between rural development groups led by the Asociación Territorio Mudéjar.

The following have participated in the project: ADRI Calatayud-Aranda, ADRI Jiloca-Gallocanta, FEDIVALCA -Valdejalón and Campo de Cariñena-, ASOMO Tarazona and el Moncayo, CEDEMAR -Bajo Aragón Caspe and Ribera Baja del Ebro-, ADRAE -Ribera Alta del Ebro- and ADEFO Cinco Villas.

The objective is to develop educational materials around the Mudejar identity of the towns, placing rural schools and the educational community of the towns as the center of the project.

Based on the work developed, for almost three years, the students of fifteen schools have designed a walk through their town in which we can learn about the main points of interest and their connection with the Mudejar culture.

Villamayor de Gállego

The route has been carried out following the working model of the schools that participated in the project and adapted to the town of Villamayor de Gállego.

In Villamayor de Gállego, we can see one of the last Mudejar constructions in our territory. This is the tower of the church of the Asunción de Nuestra Señora, a Mudejar tower from the 16th century. We will also see an example of Mudejar reminiscences in one of the many palaces in the town. We will finish with panoramic views of the surroundings of Villamayor de Gállego from the Hermitage of Nuestra Señora del Pueyo.

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1. History of the town

Villamayor de Gállego witnessed the passage of different cultures. The Muslim presence in the town is visible in the watchtower of Loma del Pesebre. Villamayor was born after the conquest of Zaragoza by Alfonso I in 1118. The exact date of its foundation is unknown, but it may well have occurred in the mid-12th century (1150) as part of the royal plans to establish a population in the areas recently won from the Muslims.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 1.

2. Mudejar Architecture

In 1425, Archbishop Alonso de Argüello ordered the old church to be demolished due to its poor condition. In its place a new one was to be built in the Mudejar style. This church underwent a major renovation in 1973. In 1587, the bell tower was built, attached to the foot section. It is of a mixed type, with a square lower section and an octagonal upper section. This tower was commissioned by the local Council to Domingo de Estala.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 4

3. Reminiscences of the Mudejar

Mudejar art came to an end in the 17th century, when the Moors were expelled. However, we have a style that has survived through the centuries. Several great families stand out in the town, responsible for the construction of the numerous 16th century manor houses in Villamayor. Families such as the Arañón, Casbas and Nadal families. The Casa Catalán is considered to be the best example of all those preserved.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 5.

4. Coexistence of cultures

After the arrival of the Christians in the territory in the 12th century, we can say that the Mudejar period began. The Christians allowed the Muslims, the previous settlers, to remain in the territory, as they carried out work that was in great demand at the time, including crafts, agriculture and construction. They allowed them to maintain their religion and customs, but they allowed them to live segmented, in neighbourhoods that we call morerías.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 2

5. Landscape

During the 13th century, Villamayor was still not clearly defined. During the 13th century, Villamayor still did not have a clear definition, but little by little the main features of a territory that is perfectly recognisable today became clear. Documents from the beginning of the 14th century, and others immediately afterwards, report the existence of the Brotherhood of Santa María del Pueyo, confirming the longevity of an association that has remained deeply rooted to the present day.

The 15th century marked the economic and social development of the town thanks to the use and enjoyment of the waters of the new irrigation channels, whose influence derives from the Arabs. It was in this century that the first details of Villamayor’s town planning as we know it today appear.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 6

Utebo

Circular from the rural school

The “Circular from the rural school” project is a cooperation project between rural development groups led by the Asociación Territorio Mudéjar.

The following have participated in the project: ADRI Calatayud-Aranda, ADRI Jiloca-Gallocanta, FEDIVALCA -Valdejalón and Campo de Cariñena-, ASOMO Tarazona and el Moncayo, CEDEMAR -Bajo Aragón Caspe and Ribera Baja del Ebro-, ADRAE -Ribera Alta del Ebro- and ADEFO Cinco Villas.

The objective is to develop educational materials around the Mudejar identity of the towns, placing rural schools and the educational community of the towns as the center of the project.

Based on the work developed, for almost three years, the students of fifteen schools have designed a walk through their town in which we can learn about the main points of interest and their connection with the Mudejar culture.

Utebo

The route has been carried out following the working model of the schools that participated in the project and adapted to the town of Alagón.

Utebo is located just a few kilometres from Zaragoza. This is why, throughout history, the two places have been closely linked. This fact is perfectly reflected in the influences in the history of art, and, in particular, in the Mudejar style. Utebo preserves a Mudejar monument of incomparable beauty and characteristics, the tower of the church of the Asunción de Nuestra Señora, which is one of the last examples of the style. A stroll through its streets will also allow you to appreciate some examples of Aragonese Renaissance architecture.

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1. History of the town

In the territory that today corresponds to Utebo we have evidence of a Muslim population since the 8th century. The Christians conquered the territory in the 12th century, allowing the previous settlers to stay, respecting their culture and religion.

The Christians commissioned the Mudejars to carry out the constructions, and they were accustomed to using a series of techniques, materials and decorations specific to their culture. Mudejar art was highly appreciated by the Christian lords.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 1.

2. Mudejar Architecture

The Mudejars built many types of constructions. Churches, palaces and towers stand out. The towers are very complex, as they evolved over the years. The latest examples are called ‘late or mixed towers’, characterised by a low quadrangular body and a high octagonal body and an abundance of decoration. This is the case of the tower of the church of Utebo, dating from the 16th century.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 5.

3. Coexistence of cultures

During the Middle Ages, three cultures coexisted in our territory: Christians, Jews and Muslims. Under the power of the Christian quarter, we find quarters called Jewish quarters and Moorish quarters. These spaces are aljamas where each culture was organised, with spaces for worship, as well as places for social gatherings (market places). In Utebo there could have been these three cultures coexisting in parallel.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 2

4. Construction materials

In Utebo, we can see those materials used for the Mudejar tower, adapted to common dwellings, such as houses and palaces. These construction techniques derive from the Islamic tradition and share ornamental elements and materials. The most common materials are clay, plaster, alabaster and wood.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 3

5. Importance of water and agriculture

Water is a divine symbol for Muslims. For the Mudejars, Muslims who remained in the Iberian Peninsula after the Christian conquest, water was fundamental.

The Arabs were pioneers in the introduction of irrigation techniques. In Utebo there are irrigation channels that irrigate the fields surrounding the town and shape its landscape, which changes throughout the seasons.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 6

6. Reminiscences

In Utebo we still have many examples of Renaissance palace-houses. These buildings allow us to talk about the use of materials and construction techniques of Islamic tradition that continue to be used throughout time in our territory. In 1610 the Moors (Mudejars converted to Christianity) were expelled from Aragon, which meant the end of the Mudejar style. Even so, we can still find buildings that are built following the same construction tradition.

This point is linked to the didactic activity 7