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

This tour about the excommunicated and cursed village of Trasmoz in Aragon promises an adventure filled with legends, historic castles, and local flavors. It’s not your typical sightseeing trip—it’s an immersive dive into Spain’s darker past, with a sprinkle of witchcraft and folklore. What makes it especially appealing is the chance to meet guides who share stories that have been whispered for centuries, and to taste regional foods that complement the experience perfectly.

What I love about this experience is the knowledgeable guides—they’re full of stories and legends, making the history come alive, and the local food tasting, which offers a delicious taste of the region’s honey, cheese, and oil. Plus, the visit to the Veruela Monastery adds a spiritual and historical layer, showing why Trasmoz was excommunicated in the 16th century. A minor consideration: if you’re not a fan of spooky stories or haunted castles, this tour may lean heavily into the eerie side, but for most, that’s part of the fun.

One thing to keep in mind is the tour’s duration—around 7 hours—so it’s a full day outing, but with well-planned stops and meaningful experiences. The blend of history, legends, and local gastronomy makes it a standout for those interested in Spain’s mystical side, especially if you enjoy stories of witches, medieval castles, and traditional foods.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Unique Focus: The tour centers on Trasmoz, the only excommunicated and cursed town in Spain, with a fascinating history linked to witchcraft and the Inquisition.
• Guided Legends: Led by an engaging guide, you’ll hear stories of witches, the castle’s torture instruments, and legends like “Aunt Casca,” giving a vivid picture of local folklore.
• Haunted Castles & Towers: The visit includes the Castillo Maldito and its tower, where instruments of torture are still on display—great for those who love spooky history.
• Local Flavors: Tasting regional products like honey, cheese, and oil complements the storytelling, offering an authentic taste of Aragon’s culinary traditions.
• Historical Depth: The Veruela Monastery enriches the trip, connecting the town’s history with religious and cultural shifts from the 16th century onwards.
• Authentic Experience: From walking through the charming streets to performing a ritual for protection and prosperity, this tour balances history and mysticism with practical engagement.

The Itinerary in Detail: What You Can Expect

Starting at Zaragoza’s Estación Delicias, the journey begins with a comfortable transfer to Trasmoz, roughly an hour away. The ride itself is a chance to get excited about the stories waiting to unfold—your guide will likely share snippets of local lore even before you arrive.

The first stop is the cursed village itself, where you’ll meet local witches and explore the ruins of Castillo Maldito. This fortress, famously linked to witchcraft legends, is a highlight. Its tower, once a place of torture and interrogation, still houses the instruments used during medieval witch hunts. The on-site witchcraft museum provides context, making the stories more tangible.

Next, you’ll wander the narrow streets, hearing tales of witches, Inquisition trials, and the town’s excommunication in the 1500s. One reviewer mentions the guide as “pure wisdom, very friendly,” making the experience memorable and engaging. The stories are delivered with a mix of humor and respect, which helps demystify some of the darker aspects.

A visit to Veruela Monastery offers a serene contrast. Poet Gustavo Adolfo Béquer’s connections to the area add a literary and poetic touch. The monastery’s peaceful cloisters and history as an excommunication site deepen your understanding of why Trasmoz was branded as cursed.

Throughout the day, you’ll enjoy tastings of local honey, cheese, and oils, which highlight regional culinary traditions. These stops aren’t just about eating; they’re about understanding local life and craftsmanship. The traditional lunch at a top local restaurant is a highlight, with reviews emphasizing the delicious food paired with exquisite local wine.

The tour ends with a protection and prosperity ritual, a unique moment that blends historical superstition with a bit of fun. You’ll also receive a small souvenir, a tangible memory of your experience.

Entering The Haunted Castle and Witch Legends

The visit to Castillo Maldito is truly the core of this tour. This fortress, historically linked to witchcraft, offers a glimpse into medieval fears and superstition. Walking through its tower, you can imagine the anguish and paranoia of those accused of witchcraft. The instruments of torture are chilling reminders of darker times. Many visitors say they appreciated the chance to learn about the fate of witches, including stories of “Aunt Casca,” a local witch who was killed, yet legend suggests some witches still remain in spirit.

The stories shared by guides like “pure wisdom and very friendly” make these legends come alive, transforming a potentially spooky experience into a fascinating lesson about Spain’s complex history with witchcraft and religion. The museum collection further illustrates the fears and practices of the past, offering a tangible connection to history.

Exploring Trasmoz’s Streets and Local Lore

Walking the streets of Trasmoz, you feel transported back in time. The charming cobblestone alleys and old buildings echo stories of superstition, exile, and resilience. The guide’s storytelling brings these streets alive, emphasizing the town’s excommunication in the 16th century and its ongoing reputation as a place of magic. The stories about witches are not just myth—they’re woven into the fabric of the town, which adds a layer of authenticity and intrigue.

One reviewer highlighted the incredible guides who made the stories engaging and “full of magic and charm,” making it more than just a history lesson—it’s a journey into Spain’s mystical traditions.

The Spiritual and Literary Connection at Veruela

Your visit to Veruela Monastery offers a calming counterpoint to the haunted castle. The monastery’s quiet cloisters, combined with Béquer’s poetic influence, deepen the sense of history and spirituality. The connection between the church’s excommunication of Trasmoz and the monastery’s history makes it a meaningful stop.

Many guests find the monastery’s peaceful ambiance a perfect place to reflect on the stories and legends uncovered earlier in the day.

Tasting Regional Specialties: Food and Wine

The culinary portion of the tour is highly praised. Tasting local honey, cheese, and oils isn’t just about flavor—it’s about connecting with the region’s craftsmanship. The lunch in a well-regarded local restaurant has earned rave reviews for its quality and authenticity. Guests often remark on the exquisite local wine pairing, which elevates the meal and makes the experience even more memorable.

These tastings, paired with stories from guides, turn the experience into a sensory delight—something that sticks with travelers long after the day ends.

Rituals, Souvenirs, and Personal Touches

A standout feature is the protection and prosperity ritual, which adds a bit of fun and mysticism. This ritual, along with a small souvenir, makes the experience personal and memorable. Many reviews express gratitude for these meaningful touches that elevate the tour beyond just sightseeing.

Price and Practical Considerations

At $211 per person, this tour offers a lot—transportation, guided storytelling, museum entries, tastings, meals, and rituals—all in one package. Compared to the cost of independently visiting these sites, it’s a good value, especially considering the depth of experience and expert guidance.

The full-day format suits those eager for an immersive experience. The tour operates in a comfortable group size, with Spanish and English guides, making it accessible for a variety of travelers.

One thing to keep in mind is the distance—it’s about an hour’s transfer from Zaragoza, so plan for that travel time. Also, since the experience leans into legends and spooky stories, it’s best suited for those with an interest in history, folklore, and local traditions.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you’re curious about Spain’s local legends, witches, and medieval history, this tour is perfect. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy storytelling, atmospheric castles, and authentic regional foods. The mix of historical sites, legends, and tastings creates a well-rounded experience that appeals to history lovers, foodies, and those interested in the mystical side of Spain.

It’s also a fantastic choice for families or groups seeking a memorable, culturally rich day that’s a little different from typical city sightseeing. The guides’ engaging storytelling makes it accessible and fun for all ages.

The Sum Up

This Zaragoza day tour to Trasmoz offers a fascinating mix of history, folklore, and regional culinary delights. The guides’ storytelling and the chance to explore a haunted castle and excommunicated village with legends of witches make it a unique, memorable experience. The local food tastings and rituals add depth and flavor—literally—to the day.

For those intrigued by stories of witches, medieval castles, and secret histories, this tour provides an authentic window into Spain’s mystical and sometimes spooky past, with a personable and well-organized approach. It’s a perfect choice if you want to combine a bit of adventure with cultural richness and regional flavors.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation from Zaragoza’s Estación Delicias to Trasmoz and back is included, making it easy to focus on the experience rather than logistics.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 7 hours, including transfers, visits, tastings, and the meal. Starting times vary, so check availability for your preferred schedule.

Are guides bilingual?
Yes, guides speak both Spanish and English, ensuring everyone can enjoy the storytelling and history.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation, entrance fees to Trasmoz Castle and Veruela Monastery, guided storytelling, all tastings, a traditional lunch, a ritual, and a souvenir.

Can I customize the experience?
Yes, the tour can be customized, including options for a sunset tour with dinner or even staying overnight in an old castle near the village.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the content’s focus on legends and castles makes it family-friendly for those interested in spooky stories and history.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking through the streets and castles. Dress for the weather, especially if you opt for the night or sunset options.

This detailed exploration of the Zaragoza witch-town tour reveals an experience worth seeking out for anyone craving the mix of history, legend, and regional flavor—an authentic slice of Spain’s mysterious side.