In Spaindepopulation led to an increase abandoned cities over the last decades. This phenomenon, a result of migration to cities and the lack of opportunities around the world rural areasgave birth to the famous “Empty Spain”. Younger generations are leaving their homes in search of jobs and services, leaving behind municipalities that, although empty, nevertheless retain their wealthy history, architecture and traditions.
Belchitea town in the province of Zaragoza, was the scene of intense fighting during the Spanish Civil Warvictim of almost total devastation in 1937. Today, the ruins of Belchite are a reminder of those dark times. Its desolate streets have appeared in various audiovisual productions, such as advertisements for video games featuring Arnold Schwarzenegger. Furthermore, the city has become a fascinating destination for lovers of the paranormal, thanks to numerous stories of inexplicable phenomena.
Belchite: History and Mystery in Civil War Ruins
@pueblosmagicosespana Belchite is a living testimony to the terrible consequences of the civil war in Aragon. Right next to New Belchite, the famous ruins of the old town still stand. Surprisingly, many ruins of the old town of Belchite still retain the grandeur of the past, such as those of the Church of San Martín de Tours, the Clock Tower or the arches of the Villa and San Roque. See it for yourself with the help of local guides through day or night guided tours. The Church of San Martín de Tours is one of the main buildings in the old town. Its tower dates from the 15th century and its three bodies have Mudejar decoration, just like the Clock Tower, another of the Mudejar monuments preserved in the old town. Moreover, this ruined landscape surrounded by legends has been chosen by many filmmakers as the setting for their films. This is the case of Guillermo del Toro, who filmed Pan’s Labyrinth here. Come and discover this part of Spanish history. We tell you more at www.pueblosmagicos.es/belchite/ #belchite #zaragoza #aragón #españa #spain #pueblosmágicos #pueblosconencanto #pueblosmagicosespaña #viajes #turismorural #iglesias #gastronomía #fiestas #tradiciones #naturaleza #hiking #routes #heritage #story #castillos ♬ original sound – Magical towns of Spain
Founded in the Middle Ages, Belchite was for centuries a prosperous agricultural town. However, in the summer of 1937, it became a key battleground between the Republican army and Franco’s forces. After weeks of intense fighting, bombings and hand-to-hand combat left the ruined city. The decision not to rebuild it was made as a visible reminder of the war, and the surviving families moved to what is today known as “Nuevo Belchite”, built next to the old town. The ruins of Belchite Viejo remain a symbol of human tragedy and the passage of time.
Places of interest
Belchite is one of the Spanish towns that has attracted the most interest due to its history, ruins and mysteries. Devastated during the Civil War in 1937, Belchite remained in ruins and was never rebuilt, becoming a memorial to the horrors of the conflict. THE visits to Belchitetoday organized only in the form of guided tours, allow us to explore a city frozen in time and discover symbolic places that bring us closer to its history and the tragic fate it suffered.
One of the most interesting points of the visit is the Saint-Martin Church of ToursGothic in style and badly damaged during the war. Today, this roofless structure displays its walls scarred by crossfire and is one of the most impressive sights. The Convent of San Agustín is another important stop; Although it is also in ruins, it retains some of its original architecture and witnessed the intense clashes of those years.
Additionally, during the tour you will visit the Main streetthe main artery of the city, which still allows us to imagine what Belchite was like in its heyday, and the Plaza Vieja, the social center of the city in peacetime. Today, this rubble esplanade is an essential site for understanding the daily life that existed before the abandonment.
In addition to its ruins, Belchite is known for the alleged paranormal phenomena that many claim to have experienced there. Several people claim to have heard unexplained sounds, such as footsteps or whisperscoming from its empty streets, which has motivated various investigations and programs dedicated to exploring the mysteries of this place.
Visit
For those who want to know Belchite, it is only possible to visit it through the Belchite Tourist Officewhich organizes guided tours in order to protect the ruins and maintain the places in good condition. It is recommended to book in advance, especially during peak periods, and opt for a night visit to experience the most mysterious atmosphere of the place.
