Monument to El Cid in Poyo del Cid © Turespaña
View of Calatayud © Turespaña
Gateway in the defensive walls of Daroca © Turespaña
View of Molina de Aragón © Turespaña
View of Albarracín
El Cid succeeded in raising a substantial and numerous army, which moved freely about the area of the taifas (Arab kingdoms) of Toledo, Zaragoza and Albarracín. The third section of the Way of El Cid covers the route between the towns of Ateca (Zaragoza) and Cella (Teruel), and passes through the villages which were once part of these territories.
The itinerary of this third section of the Way of El Cid passes through the provinces of Zaragoza, Guadalajara and Teruel. It has 289 kilometres of paths in different stages (13 days on foot, 6 days by bike); while the route by car is 322 kilometres and takes three days, at a leisurely pace.
There are also two other alternative circular itineraries within these routes. The first, the Gallocanta circuit, starts out from the village of Daroca and covers 47 kilometres, and leads to the Laguna de Gallocanta lake, one of the most important wetlands in Spain. The other route leaves from Luco de Jiloca and is known as the Montalbán circuit.
Points of interest on the route from Ateca to Cella include the Jiloca valley, the Alto Tajo region and the Sierra de Albarracín mountains. The best idea is to visit the tourist offices in each place to find out all about the activities and points of interest on offer.
Notable cities
Calatayud is one of the destinations that should not be missed during the trip. It was founded in the 8th century, and together with the remains of the Arab fortress which can still be seen, it is well worth visiting the historic Mudéjar site, and particularly the collegiate church of Santa María La Mayor. Further ahead, another interesting place to visit is Daroca, home to an imposing walled enclosure and to various palaces, churches and buildings in the Romanesque and Gothic styles.
Another significant stop on this route is Molina de Aragón. Its rich architectural heritage can be enjoyed by taking a leisurely stroll around the town: the castle, the mediaeval quarter, various religious buildings, noble mansions… Continuing on along the route we come to another interesting point: Albarracín. In addition to its walls and its evocative historic quarter, another interesting element is the Roman aqueduct which links the town with Cella, the final point on this last section of the Way of El Cid. This construction follows the road, and can even be walked on some of its stretches.
What to see on the route See more
To continue your journey
The Way of El Cid. First section: Exile
The Way of El Cid. Second section: Frontier territory
What to do
More information