85km (53 miles) W of Zaragoza, 235km (146 miles) NE of Madrid
The Romans founded Calatayud only to abandon it sometime during the 2nd century, and it wasn't until the arrival of the Muslims in the 8th century that it was repopulated. The Moors were routed in 1120 by the conquering Catholic forces, which allowed some of the inhabitants to stay. But they were made virtual slaves and forced to live in a morería (Moorish ghetto). Moorish influence can still be seen in the town. Many 14th- and 15th-century church towers in Calatayud are reminiscent of minarets.
