Monument to the Sieges of Zaragoza

The Monument to the Sieges of Zaragoza is one of the most recognisable landmarks in Zaragoza, standing on Plaza de los Sitios in the heart of the city. Carved in stone and cast in bronze, the memorial commemorates the two Napoleonic sieges of 1808–1809, when the city's residents mounted a fierce resistance against the French army.

What does the monument depict?

The memorial was created to mark the centenary of the city's defence and was unveiled on 28 October 1908, in the presence of King Alfonso XIII. The unveiling formed part of that year's Hispano-French Exhibition, held in Zaragoza. The monumental figurative group was designed by the Spanish sculptor Agustín Querol.

At the centre of the composition stand the figures traditionally credited with playing a decisive role in the city's defence: General José Rebolledo de Palafox, who led the resistance, Agustina Zaragoza Doménech, better known as Agustina de Aragón, a symbol of the courage shown by the city's women, and María de la Consolación Azlor, Countess of Bureta. Surrounding the main figures is a group representing the women who defended the city — a reminder that Zaragoza's resistance was carried not only by soldiers but by civilians as well.

The ensemble is widely regarded as one of the finest public monuments in the city — the pedestal's architecture and the figurative sculptures merge into a single, visually striking composition.

How do you get there?

Plaza de los Sitios sits in Zaragoza's historic centre, within easy walking distance of La Seo Cathedral and the Basilica of Nuestra Señora del Pilar. The square is served by city bus stops nearby, making it a convenient stop on a walking route through the old town. Surrounding the plaza are apartment buildings dating from the turn of the 20th century, which reinforce the historic character of the setting.

What else is worth seeing nearby?

The square itself is more than a backdrop for the monument — it's a well-kept public space with gardens and benches, popular with locals for a stroll or a rest. Right next to it stands the Museo de Zaragoza (Provincial Museum), making the area a good starting point for further sightseeing. It's worth pausing at the monument to take in the sculptural detail: the expressions and gestures of the figures are unusually vivid, setting this memorial apart from many other war monuments across Europe.

When should you visit?

The monument can be viewed year-round, since it stands in an open public square. The best light for photographs comes in the early morning or late afternoon, when the sun hits the composition from the side and brings out the sculptural detail. In summer the square can get quite exposed to the sun, so it's worth planning a visit outside the hottest hours, typical of Zaragoza in July and August.

Frequently asked questions

What does the monument on Plaza de los Sitios commemorate? It commemorates the two sieges of Zaragoza by Napoleonic forces in 1808–1809 and honours those who defended the city, including General Palafox and Agustina de Aragón.

When was the monument unveiled? It was formally unveiled on 28 October 1908, marking the centenary of the city's defence, with King Alfonso XIII in attendance.

Is there an entry fee? No — the monument stands in an open public square and can be viewed free of charge at any time.

How much time should you set aside? Viewing the monument itself takes about 15–20 minutes, but combining it with a stroll around the square and a visit to the nearby Museo de Zaragoza can easily stretch the visit to an hour or two.