Zaragoza: Only excommunicated and cursed town with witches in Spain and food

Zaragoza: Only excommunicated and cursed town with witches in Spain and food — a detailed look

If you’re curious about Spain’s secretive side, this tour offers a fascinating peek into Trasmoz, a town shrouded in legends of witches, curses, and history. It’s not your typical sightseeing trip, but rather a chance to step into a storybook filled with stories of the unknown, local flavors, and a touch of magic.

What makes this experience special? First, you get to visit the only excommunicated village in Spain, still home to stories of witches and the echoes of the Inquisition. Second, the combination of historical sites like the castle and monastery with the chance to taste local products and traditional food creates a well-rounded, memorable day.

Of course, it’s not without its quirks—perhaps the most notable being the full-day duration of about 7 hours, which might be a lot for travelers with limited time or energy. But if you’re someone who enjoys stories about history, legends, and local customs, this tour could be a real highlight.

It’s especially suited for those who love a mix of history, folklore, and good food—think curious travelers, history buffs, or even those with a penchant for the mysterious. Families with older kids might also enjoy the storytelling aspect, but keep in mind that some sites, like the castle with torture instruments, have a darker edge.

Key Points

• Unique location: Trasmoz is Spain’s only excommunicated and cursed village.
• Rich stories: Guided by a witch, you’ll hear legends spanning centuries, from the Inquisition to modern tales.
• Historic sites: Visit the haunted Castillo Maldito and see the torture instruments museum.
• Cultural flavors: Enjoy local products like honey, cheese, and oil, paired with a traditional, hearty meal.
• Authentic experience: Includes rituals for protection and prosperity, plus a small souvenir.
• Full-day adventure: Involves transportation, multiple stops, and engaging guides, offering a deep dive into local culture.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This experience is crafted for travelers who want more than just surface-level sightseeing. It’s a mix of history, local culture, and folklore with a dash of the mystical. Starting from Zaragoza’s Delicias station, you’ll head out for a day that balances guided visits, tasting stops, and storytelling.

Visiting Trasmoz — The Cursed Village

The core of the tour is Trasmoz, a village that earned its reputation as Spain’s only excommunicated town. The history here is tinged with the superstitions and fears of past centuries. You’ll walk through the streets, hearing stories of witches, some of whom, legend says, still linger.

The Castillo Maldito (Cursed Castle) is a focal point, standing as a reminder of the town’s turbulent past. The castle’s tower, with its instruments of torture, offers a visceral glimpse into the darker days when accusations of witchcraft led to brutal punishments. The museum of witchcraft remains untouched, giving visitors a rare peek into the tools used and the fears that once gripped the community.

From the castle’s tower, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Moncayo and the surrounding countryside, making it a scenic highlight.

Legends, Stories, and Guides

A significant part of this tour is the guided storytelling—delivered by guides who seem to be passionate about the town’s history and legends. Actual quotes from previous guests mention guides as “pure wisdom” and “incredible,” indicating that the storytelling is engaging and authentic. With stories covering everything from witches and their healing practices to the Inquisition, you’ll get a sense of the mix of fear and fascination that defines Trasmoz.

Tasting Local Products and Traditional Food

No trip to Spain is complete without sampling local flavors, and this tour doesn’t disappoint. You’ll taste honey, cheese, and oil, all produced locally and served as part of the experience. The traditional meal at a local restaurant is described as “luxurious” by past guests, paired with excellent local wine. The food acts as a delicious reward after exploring the historical sites.

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Rituals and Souvenirs

A nice touch is the protection and prosperity ritual performed during the tour, which adds an authentic, spiritual element to the experience. Plus, you’ll leave with a small souvenir—a reminder of the mystical and flavorful day you spent exploring Zaragoza’s darker, enchanting side.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour’s structure ensures a steady flow of activities, with strategic stops to keep the experience engaging:

• Start at Zaragoza’s Estación Delicias, where you’ll meet your guide and get comfortable.
• Transfer (about an hour) takes you out into the countryside, setting the tone for an adventure beyond city limits.
• The first stop involves a photo session and a guided tour of Trasmoz, where you’ll get an introduction to its history and legends.
• Next, you’ll enjoy a break with more photos, some shopping, and time to soak in the atmosphere.
• Afterward, a lunch and wine tasting awaits — roughly 1.5 hours of traditional food, local wines, and desserts, offering a real taste of the region.
• The final sightseeing stop includes more photos and stories, perhaps revisiting favorite spots or discovering new ones.
• You’ll return to Zaragoza after another transfer, ending a full, enriching day.

Why This Tour Offers Value

While $211 might sound steep for some, the inclusions justify the price. You’re getting transportation, guides, entrance fees to key sites like Trasmoz Castle and Veruela Monastery, plus a full traditional meal and tastings. The rituals and souvenirs add to the feeling of a complete cultural experience, not just a sightseeing pass.

Guests rave about the knowledgeability of guides and the quality of the food and wine, making it clear this isn’t just a touristy romp but a well-curated day. The reviews emphasize that the stories and legends make the experience distinctive and memorable, elevating it beyond standard tours.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy stories, history, and local customs. If you’re curious about mysticism, legends, and witches, and don’t mind a full-day outing, you’ll love it. It’s also a great option for food lovers who want to taste authentic local products in a historical setting.

While families with older children might find the stories fascinating, younger kids should be aware of some darker themes related to torture instruments and witch trials. It’s ideal for adults, couples, and groups looking for something different from the typical city tour.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a compelling mix of history, legend, and local flavor, all wrapped into a day that explores Zaragoza’s mysterious side. The guides’ storytelling, combined with visits to haunted castles and the excommunicated village, creates an experience that feels both educational and enchanting. The tasting of local products and the traditional meal make it a satisfying culinary journey as well.

If you’re the type of traveler who appreciates stories of witches, loves discovering hidden towns, and enjoys authentic regional cuisine, this tour is definitely worth considering. It’s a chance to walk through a living legend, to learn about a town that once faced excommunication, and to enjoy the flavors of Aragon in a setting steeped in mystery.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation to and from Zaragoza is included, with pick-up and transfers during the day, making it a hassle-free experience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Absolutely. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 7 hours, from pick-up in Zaragoza until returning, depending on starting times.

What languages are available for the guided tour?
Guides operate in both Spanish and English, ensuring most travelers can follow along comfortably.

Does the tour include entrance fees?
Yes, entrance to Trasmoz Castle and Veruela Monastery are included in the price.

What kind of food is served during lunch?
A traditional, hearty meal featuring local products, with wines and desserts, is served at a well-rated local restaurant.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While primarily aimed at adults, kids with a love of legends and history might enjoy it too. Keep in mind some sites feature darker themes.

What is the significance of the rituals performed?
The protection and prosperity ritual adds an authentic spiritual element, echoing the town’s mystical past.

Can I customize this tour?
Yes, there are options like a sunset tour with dinner or even staying overnight at a castle near the village—just ask the provider.

Is the town of Trasmoz accessible for those with mobility issues?
While not explicitly stated, the tour involves walking through streets and sites, so it might require some mobility. Check with the provider if needed.

This tour offers a delightful blend of mystery, history, and local flavors—perfect for those wanting a story-rich day outside Zaragoza. With engaging guides and authentic experiences, it’s a day that will leave you both intrigued and satisfied.

You can check availability for your dates here: