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

Zaragoza: Only excommunicated and cursed town with witches in Spain and food offers a unique journey into Spain’s mysterious past, blending legend, history, and local flavors. For $211 per person, you’ll spend around 7 hours exploring Trasmoz—the town famously excommunicated and cursed, still home to witches—and its surrounding sights. Guided by knowledgeable locals, this tour gives you a chance to walk through haunted castles, hear stories of witches and Inquisition, and taste some of the region’s best honey, cheese, and oils.

Two aspects we particularly love are the opportunity to learn about the local legends from a guide who’s clearly passionate, and the chance to sample authentic regional products in a setting that feels genuine and unpretentious. The visit to the Cursed Trasmoz Castle, with its instruments of torture and witchcraft museum, adds an eerie, fascinating touch. A second highlight is the visit to Veruela Monastery, which ties the whole story together with the town’s historical context of excommunication—a rare glimpse into Spain’s complex past.

A possible consideration is the tour’s length and pace. With several stops, including 1-hour transfers, a few guided walks, and food tastings, it’s a full day. Travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace or more free time might find it a bit busy. However, if you’re enthusiastic about history, legends, and regional cuisine, this tour offers more than enough to justify the hours.

This experience suits adventurous visitors interested in legends and history, especially those curious about Spain’s witchcraft stories and medieval curses. It also appeals to food lovers and fans of authentic regional cuisine. If you’re eager to combine storytelling, cultural sights, and delicious local food in one day, this tour is a compelling pick.

Key Points

• Unique Focus: The only excommunicated and cursed town in Spain, with ongoing legends about witches.
• Rich Stories: Guided by passionate locals who share captivating tales from the Inquisition to today.
• Historical Sites: Explore the haunted Trasmoz Castle and the instruments of torture still on display.
• Culinary Experience: Tasting local honey, cheese, oils, and a traditional hearty meal enhances the visit.
• Cultural Connection: Visit Veruela Monastery to understand why Trasmoz was excommunicated and learn about regional history.
• Authentic Atmosphere: Small group tours and local guides make the experience intimate and genuine.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

The Journey Begins: From Zaragoza to Trasmoz

Starting from Zaragoza’s Estación Delicias, the tour kicks off with a one-hour transfer. During this time, you’ll get a glimpse of the Aragonese countryside—green fields, distant Moncayo peaks, and quiet villages passing by. Think of it as a gentle warm-up before plunging into the legends and the history.

Visiting the Only Cursed Village in Spain

Trasmoz claims to be the only excommunicated and cursed town in Spain, a title that instantly piques curiosity. This isn’t just a tourist gimmick—historically, Trasmoz was excommunicated in the 16th century, and that stigma still lingers. As you walk its streets, you’ll notice the authentic medieval architecture and quiet charm of a village that has survived centuries of superstition and legend.

The main highlight here is the Castillo Maldito—a castle shrouded in stories of witchcraft and torture. The castle’s tower still houses instruments of torture, which once served to punish accused witches or heretics. The guided tour here is rich with details, and your guide, possibly a local with a deep knowledge of folklore, will share stories about Aunt Casca, a legendary witch whose story remains woven into the town’s identity.

Tales of Witches and Legends

Throughout the walk, you’ll hear about the witches of the area, who are not just figures of past superstition but are said to still be present in local stories and perhaps even in the town’s folklore today. Our guides are praised for their wisdom and friendly demeanor, making these tales both educational and entertaining.

From stories of the Inquisition to more recent folklore, the stories help you understand why Trasmoz earned its cursed reputation. They also provide a fascinating look at how myths and history often intertwine in small communities.

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The Witchcraft Museum and Instruments of Torture

A key part of the visit is to the museum of witchcraft, where relics of the past—such as instruments used to torture accused witches—are kept intact. Viewing these items up close can be unsettling but eye-opening. It’s a reminder of how superstition and fear once fueled tragic events.

The Views and the Surroundings

From the castle’s tower, you’ll get panoramic views of the Moncayo mountain range and the lush landscape surrounding Trasmoz. It’s a moment to appreciate the natural beauty that has persisted through centuries of legend and hardship.

Veruela Monastery and the Town’s Excommunication

Next, the tour takes you to the Veruela Monastery, which played a role in the town’s history. The monastery offers insight into why Trasmoz was excommunicated—an event rooted in religious conflicts and social tensions of the 16th century. Walking through the cloisters, you’ll sense the quiet dignity of monastic life, contrasting the dark legends of Trasmoz.

Savoring Local Flavors

After the historical and legend-filled morning, it’s time to indulge in regional tastes. At a traditional local restaurant, you will enjoy a hearty, authentic meal, which could include local cheeses, honey, and oils. The tour’s inclusion of tasting regional products means you’ll get to savor flavors that are often hard to find outside the area.

Rituals, Souvenirs, and Final Reflections

As a special touch, the tour includes a protection and prosperity ritual—a fun, spiritual moment that ties into the witchcraft theme. Afterwards, you’ll receive a small souvenir to remind you of this one-of-a-kind experience.

The Return Journey

After a busy day, a second hour-long transfer takes you back to Zaragoza, allowing time to reflect on what you’ve learned and experienced. Many reviews praise their guide’s storytelling skills and the overall sense of magic this tour creates.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This experience’s unique focus on Trasmoz’s legends and history sets it apart from more conventional day trips. The combination of haunted castles, authentic storytelling, and regional cuisine creates a well-rounded day that appeals to history buffs, food lovers, and those fascinated with folklore. The guide’s enthusiasm and local knowledge are apparent in the reviews, making the stories come alive.

On top of that, the inclusion of local products, wine tasting, and a traditional meal offers excellent value—you’re not just sightseeing but also engaging with the region’s culture on multiple levels. The ritual adds a playful, memorable dimension, appealing to travelers open to a bit of fun and mysticism.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour suits travelers who are curious about Spain’s lesser-known stories, especially those interested in medieval legends, witchcraft, and religious history. It’s perfect for food lovers eager to taste regional specialties and history enthusiasts wanting a deeper understanding of local folklore. The lively guides and storytelling focus make it ideal for those who enjoy an engaging narrative, not just sightseeing.

If you’re worried about tight schedules or prefer more leisure time, this tour might feel a tad busy, but most reviews indicate that the pace is well-managed. It’s particularly recommended for adventurous families, couples, or small groups looking for a day full of stories, scenic views, and local flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation from Zaragoza’s Estación Delicias is included, with transfers during the day and return to the same station.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 7 hours, including transfers, sightseeing, and meals.

What is the cost?
The price is $211 per person, which covers entrance fees, guided tours, meals, tastings, rituals, and a souvenir.

Can I customize the tour?
Yes, you can customize the experience, and there’s a sunset tour with dinner available on Saturday afternoons. You can also inquire about accommodations, such as sleeping in an old castle near the village.

What languages are offered?
Guides lead the tour in Spanish and English, making it accessible for many travelers.

Are there any physical considerations?
You should be comfortable walking through historic streets and sites, which may include uneven surfaces. The tour’s pace is generally manageable for most adults.

To sum it up, this Zaragoza tour provides a rare mix of history, legend, and local gastronomy that few experiences can match. Its focus on Trasmoz’s cursed reputation, witches, and medieval torture instruments offers a memorable glimpse into Spain’s darker past, served up with regional flavors and a spirit of fun. It suits travelers who want an engaging, story-filled day away from the usual tourist trail—an experience that’s as educational as it is enchanting. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just someone curious about Spain’s mysterious side, this tour is bound to leave a lasting impression.

You can check availability for your dates here: