🌼 Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar ⛪️

First built in the 1st century, this massive Baroque complex glows at dusk—bathed in lilac twilight, its reflection rippling in the Ebro River. It's a sight so stunning that it'll leave you in awe 😍. Gone are the dark days of the Medieval Inquisition, when heretics were burned at the stake here by Catholic monarchs. The most sacred spot? A legendary pillar hidden in the sanctuary’s small chapel. Believers say the Virgin Mary descended upon it, as seen by the apostle James. Only a sliver of the pillar peeks from the chapel wall, yet it draws crowds: this is one of Spain’s holiest pilgrimage sites 🛕. People line up to touch, kiss, and pray before it, making wishes. Even more miraculously, two cannonballs from the Spanish Civil War are still embedded in the pillar—they never exploded! It's like a touch of divine protection ✨. Inside, the basilica is a maze of chapels, with arching domes, columns, and art everywhere. Goya’s paintings, gem - studded gold and silver icons, 16th - century carvings by master Fermín—all priceless treasures 😲. During mass, the air smells of incense; red - robed priests, white - cloaked nuns, and organ music fill the space with chants. It’s overwhelming, beautiful, and warm with a sense of love 🫶. 🌼 Plaza del Pilar 🛎️ This 500 - meter square is ringed by history: the Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar, the Church of Jesus the Savior, and even Goya’s tomb. Lined with restaurants and bars, it’s Zaragoza’s lively “town hall square,” where you can soak up the local vibes 🍻. 🌼 Church of Jesus the Savior ⛪️ A blend of Roman and Baroque styles, with stunning Mudéjar details on its walls and towers. Built on the site of a mosque, its interior shines. Don’t miss the Flemish Tapestry Museum inside, home to exquisite 14th–17th - century tapestries from Flanders and France. It's like stepping into a time - capsule of art history 🎨. #ZaragozaChurches #PilgrimageSite #SpanishHeritage