Discover Caspe: history, trails and water

Caspe brings together medieval and religious landmarks, hiking trails and activities on Mar de Aragón. If you’re looking for a hotel in Caspe, you can plan your stay around your interests: the history of the Compromiso, specific trail distances, or water sports on the reservoir.

Churches, landmarks and the history of the Compromiso

The Iglesia de Santa María la Mayor has a Gothic-style main portal, built during the church’s expansion between 1388 and 1412. The Santo Cristo Chapel contains an ornate plaster ceiling decorated with geometric and floral motifs. It is considered one of the finest examples of Mudéjar art in Bajo Aragón. The church also houses the Veracruz de Caspe relic, considered one of the largest surviving fragments of the cross on which Christ was crucified, as well as the Cáliz del Compromiso.

The Castillo del Compromiso was chosen in 1412 as the venue for the Compromiso de Caspe. At this event, Fernando de Antequera was named King of Aragón. On the castle’s upper level is the Salón del Compromiso, covering an area of 170 m². The Torre de Salamanca—also known as Fuerte de Salamanca or Torre del Cabezo de Monteagudo—offers a different historical perspective: it was built in 1875 as a watchtower for optical telegraphy and riflemen during the Third Carlist War, and was designated a Bien de Interés Cultural in 2006.

The Arcos del Toril preserve three low pointed arches on the north side of Plaza de España, along with another arch incorporated into the façade of a later building, which originally belonged to a defensive tower. The arches are considered evidence of a presumed arcaded square, where much of Caspe’s economic and social life took place from the 15th century onwards.

The Ermita de Santa María de Horta is the only surviving example of Romanesque architecture in the municipality of Caspe; it dates from the late 12th or early 13th century. After it was severely flooded by the Mequinenza Reservoir, it was dismantled in 1973 and rebuilt on Cabezo de Monteagudo. It is no longer used for religious services and now hosts social events and occasional civil weddings.

Mar de Aragón and trails around Caspe

Mar de Aragón is a reservoir built on the Ebro, about one kilometre from Caspe town centre. Activities available there include windsurfing, water skiing, wakeboarding, rowing, canoeing, kayaking and sailing. Fishing is also one of the main activities; popular species include catfish and largemouth bass. If you’re planning a particular activity, check the specific options and local conditions in advance.

There are routes for both leisurely walks and longer outings: a Sendero Turístico starts behind the Colegiata and the Castillo del Compromiso, then joins the Camino Natural del Ebro. The Camino Jacobeo del Ebro also passes through Caspe. The Fabara–Caspe stage is 20 km long, while the Caspe–Escatrón stage is 29 km. This makes the second stage nine kilometres longer—a useful comparison of route lengths if you’re planning your hike accordingly. It’s a good idea to check current trail conditions before setting out.

Guided tours, exhibitions and annual festivals

The Caspe Tourist Office offers three guided tours of the town’s cultural heritage, each lasting about two hours. If you’d like to plan your visit in advance, check the dates and booking conditions. The Centro de Visitantes de Caspe is in a new building in the historic old town, near Plaza de España and behind the town hall. It focuses on Iberian religious and funerary culture and is part of the regional Ruta de los Íberos network. Check current access arrangements before visiting.

The Museo de la Pesca is located on Mar de Aragón in the El Dique residential area. Here too, it’s best to check access arrangements before making specific plans to visit. Annual festivals also shape the calendar for culture lovers: Semana Santa is designated a Fiesta de Interés Turístico de Aragón and includes eight processions depicting the life and Passion of Jesus Christ. The Conmemoración del Compromiso de Caspe is held every year and has the same designation. It recreates life in the early 15th century, with historical clothing, weapons, armour and musical instruments among the features. Every year on 15 May, celebrations in honour of the saint are held at the Ermita de San Indalecio. Festival programmes may change, so check the dates and programme before travelling to an event.

Local food culture offers another distinctive touch: some producers sell and offer tastings of chocolate bonbons with olives and olive oil ice cream. If you’d like to try these specialities, ask about current availability.

Discover more destinations: Villanueva De Gállego, Ainzón, Los Fayos, La Almolda, Bardallur, Calcena, Quinto, Leciñena

For the overview of the wider region: Zaragoza.