Capitanía General Building
A stunning Neoclassical palace, former military headquarters, now occasionally hosting exhibitions. Admire its grand facade and interior.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Access to the interior
Capitanía General Building
Best Time
Access to the interior
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning Neoclassical palace, former military headquarters, now occasionally hosting exhibitions. Admire its grand facade and interior.
"A beautiful palace that often hosts exhibitions, allowing you to enjoy the inside."
📅 Check Exhibition Dates
The building is often only accessible during temporary exhibitions. Always verify dates and times online before your visit!
🏛️ Admire the Facade
Even if closed, the exterior is a masterpiece of Neoclassical architecture. Take time to appreciate the details.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Palatial Facade
A stunning example of late Neoclassical architecture, inspired by 16th-century Italian palaces. A true visual feast.
General Palafox Statue
Monumental Staircase
A commanding bronze statue of General Palafox, a significant historical figure, presides over the grand staircase.
Court/Reception Hall
Step into the carefully decorated eclectic style of the reception hall for a glimpse into historical grandeur.
Garden Mortars
Garden
Two historic bronze mortars from 1895 are on display in the building's garden, adding a military touch.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Check Exhibition Schedules
Appreciate the Architecture
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📅 Check Exhibition Dates
The building is often only accessible during temporary exhibitions. Always verify dates and times online before your visit!
🏛️ Admire the Facade
Even if closed, the exterior is a masterpiece of Neoclassical architecture. Take time to appreciate the details.
🚶♂️ Explore the Interior
When open for exhibitions, the inside is just as impressive, featuring a grand staircase and decorated halls.
🦁 Look for the Lions
The Spanish coat of arms on the pediment is supported by two majestic lions – a detail not to be missed.
Tips
from all over the internet
📅 Check Exhibition Dates
The building is often only accessible during temporary exhibitions. Always verify dates and times online before your visit!
🏛️ Admire the Facade
Even if closed, the exterior is a masterpiece of Neoclassical architecture. Take time to appreciate the details.
🚶♂️ Explore the Interior
When open for exhibitions, the inside is just as impressive, featuring a grand staircase and decorated halls.
🦁 Look for the Lions
The Spanish coat of arms on the pediment is supported by two majestic lions – a detail not to be missed.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Capitanía General Building for its impressive Neoclassical architecture and historical significance, especially when open for exhibitions. The facade, monumental staircase, and reception hall are frequently highlighted as beautiful and noteworthy features. Staff are often described as professional and helpful during visits.
"The Palace of the former Captaincy General of Aragon is a military-style building, constructed between 1879 and 1894.
Its palatial façade, one of the most notable examples of late Neoclassical architecture in Zaragoza, is inspired by 16th-century Italian palaces. The pediment features a relief of Minerva, surrounded by military regalia, alongside the coat of arms of Spain supported by two lions.
This two-story building features a monumental staircase, presided over by the bronze statue of General Palafox, a work by the Aragonese sculptor Dionisio Lasuén, completed in 1891. Also noteworthy is the Court or reception hall, with its carefully decorated eclectic style.
Two bronze mortars dating from 1895 are on display in its garden.
It was the headquarters of the Captaincy of the Fifth Military Region until the late 1980s. Today, although the building remains in military use, it occasionally hosts temporary exhibitions."
Fernando C.
"A beautiful palace that often hosts exhibitions, allowing you to enjoy the inside. The staff, both military and civilian, are very professional. A special place not to be missed in Zaragoza."
R.o Bilbao
"It was designed and built towards the end of the 19th century by military personnel to serve as the headquarters of the Fifth Military Region. It currently houses senior military commanders and military offices. It also hosts temporary exhibitions."
César Flores
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Capitanía General Building is centrally located in Zaragoza. You can easily reach it by public transport, with several bus lines stopping nearby. Walking from the city center is also a pleasant option if you're exploring Zaragoza on foot.
Street parking can be challenging in this central area. It's recommended to use public parking garages located a short walk from the building. Check local parking apps for availability and rates.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry is typically required for temporary exhibitions held within the building. It's essential to check the official website or local event listings for exhibition dates, times, and ticket information.
The building's opening hours are primarily dictated by the schedule of its temporary exhibitions. These can vary, so always consult the official sources for the most up-to-date information.
No, the building remains in military use and is generally only accessible to the public when hosting temporary exhibitions. Plan your visit around these specific events.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Inside, you can admire the monumental staircase with the statue of General Palafox, the decorated reception hall, and any ongoing temporary exhibitions. The military-style architecture is a key feature.
Information on guided tours is usually tied to specific exhibitions. It's best to check the exhibition details or inquire directly with the venue when planning your visit.
Accessibility details can vary depending on the exhibition setup. It's advisable to contact the venue directly to inquire about specific accessibility features for visitors with mobility challenges.
The building is a prime example of late Neoclassical architecture, drawing inspiration from 16th-century Italian palaces. Its facade is particularly noteworthy.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can differ for temporary exhibitions. While general photography might be allowed, flash photography or professional shoots may be restricted. Check signage or ask staff upon entry.
The grand facade, the monumental staircase with the General Palafox statue, and the ornate reception hall are excellent subjects for photography. The garden with the mortars also offers unique shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
🏛️ History Enthusiasts
When exhibitions are held, they often delve into historical themes, providing further context. Don't miss the bronze mortars in the garden, remnants of its military function. Even if the interior isn't accessible, the exterior alone is a testament to the architectural styles and ambitions of its era.
📸 Architecture & Photography Buffs
When exhibitions are open, the eclectic style of the reception hall provides further photographic opportunities. Remember to check photography policies, as flash or professional equipment might be restricted. The garden, with its historic bronze mortars, also presents unique angles for capturing the building's military and architectural character.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Significance
Inside, the building continues to impress with its monumental staircase, dominated by the bronze statue of General Palafox. This statue, a work by Dionisio Lasuén, adds a heroic element to the space. The Court or reception hall is another highlight, showcasing a carefully decorated eclectic style, offering a glimpse into the building's historical function as a center of command and administration. The presence of two bronze mortars from 1895 in the garden further emphasizes its military heritage.
While the building remains in active military use, its occasional opening for temporary exhibitions provides a rare opportunity for the public to appreciate its architectural merits and historical ambiance. Visitors often remark on the beauty and impressiveness of the interior spaces when accessible.
Historical Context and Military Use
Until the late 1980s, the building fulfilled its primary military function. Even today, it remains under military administration, underscoring its enduring connection to the armed forces. This dual nature—a historical monument and an active military site—adds a unique layer to its identity. The occasional hosting of temporary exhibitions allows civilians to engage with this significant piece of military history and architecture, bridging the gap between its past and present roles.
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