Palais de l'Aljafería

This is Spain's finest Islamic-era building outside Andalusia—and it is still in use! Since 1987, it has been home to Aragón's regional parliament. Originally built in the 11th century as a fortified palace for Zaragoza's Islamic rulers, it has undergone later alterations but still preserves some of the finest examples of Islamic art in Spain, including the delicate interwoven arches of the central courtyard and the octagonal prayer room with its mihrab, inspired by the Great Mosque of Córdoba. It stands as one of the greatest expressions of the splendor achieved by Islamic Zaragoza during the Taifa period. The throne room ceiling, commissioned by the Catholic Monarchs, is a stunning example of Art mudéjar, which earned the palace a place on UNESCO's World Heritage List.