Torre de del Palo

Torre del Palo is a solitary, round defensive tower standing on the San Jorge hill above Daroca, in the province of Zaragoza, Aragon. It forms part of Daroca's famous city walls, which stretch for more than three kilometers and rank among the three longest surviving defensive perimeters in Spain, alongside those of Ávila and Lugo.

Where exactly is the tower located?

Torre del Palo sits south of Daroca's old town, along the stretch of wall that once linked the city's three fortified strongholds: Castillo Mayor, Castillo de San Jorge, and the San Cristóbal tower. The tower belongs to the defensive perimeter of the San Jorge castle, which crowns the hill of the same name. From up here you get one of the best panoramic views over old Daroca and the valley below.

What will you actually see there today?

Also known as Torre Redonda for its wide, circular footprint, Torre del Palo survives today only as its lower section. The masonry structure has lost much of its original height — old photographs from around 1900 show it still largely intact, in noticeably better condition than what remains now. Its current form is largely the result of 19th-century modifications carried out during the Carlist Wars, when Daroca's fortifications briefly regained military relevance. Nearby, you can still spot a few badly eroded stretches of wall built in tapial, the rammed-earth technique typical of Aragonese military architecture of the period.

Set your expectations accordingly: this is a raw, largely unmanaged historical site, with no visitor infrastructure, information panels, or marked paths. It rewards travelers who enjoy exploring genuine ruins in a natural setting rather than a fully restored, visitor-ready monument.

How do you get there?

The easiest approach is on foot from Daroca's historic center, following the path that runs alongside the walls up toward the San Jorge hill. Be prepared for a proper climb — the terrain is uneven, and sections of the path are steep and unpaved. Comfortable shoes and water are essential, especially in summer, when the Aragonese sun can be intense. Cars can only reach the edge of the old town; the rest has to be done on foot.

When is the best time to visit?

Spring and autumn offer the most comfortable conditions for the uphill walk. Late afternoon is particularly rewarding for photography, as the low sun brings out the texture of the stone and casts long shadows across the surrounding hills. In summer, aim for early morning or evening visits to avoid the midday heat.

Why does this spot matter?

Despite its modest size and ruined state, Torre del Palo is tangible evidence of Daroca's long defensive history — a city that for centuries guarded the frontier between Christian Aragon and Moorish Spain, and later served as a strategic waypoint on the route between Zaragoza and Valencia. The entire city wall circuit, including Torre del Palo, was declared a national monument in 1931, confirming its historical significance at a national level.

Frequently asked questions

Is there an entry fee? No. Torre del Palo stands in open, unrestricted terrain and can be viewed freely at any time, with no admission charge.

How long does a visit take? The tower itself is a brief stop along the walking route by the walls — seeing it takes just a few minutes, though it's worth allowing extra time for the walk from the town center and for taking in the view.

Can you go inside the tower? Given its advanced deterioration and lack of safety measures, entering the interior isn't recommended or officially permitted — it's best appreciated from the outside.

Is it worth combining with the rest of Daroca's walls? Absolutely. Torre del Palo is best visited as part of a longer walk along the full circuit of city walls, which also takes in Castillo Mayor and the other defensive towers.