Teruel history

Although the lands where the modern city stands were inhabited as far back as the times of the Iberians and Romans, the official history of Teruel begins in the Middle Ages. The city was founded in 1171 by King Alfonso II of Aragon. This decision was driven by the need to strengthen the southern borders of the kingdom and create a reliable outpost in the region.

A famous legend about the "bull and the star" is connected to the origin of the name. According to tradition, royal troops, while searching for a place to settle, followed a bull that had a bright star shining above its horns. The city was founded at the spot where the animal stopped. This image became the symbol of Teruel, and the figure of the bull—the "Torico"—remains its main emblem to this day.

Key Factors of Development. The transformation of a small settlement into an important urban centre was driven by several strategic and geographical reasons:

• Geographical Location: Teruel is situated on a high elevation at the confluence of the Guadalaviar and Alfambra rivers. This terrain provided natural protection and control over the surrounding valleys.
• Special Privileges (Fueros): To attract residents to this rugged mountain region, the city was granted the "Fueros de Teruel" code of laws in 1177. These privileges gave citizens significant freedoms and rights, which stimulated an influx of population and merchants.
• Military and Political Importance: For a long time, the city served as a crucial defensive line, which contributed to the construction of powerful walls and towers that define its appearance today.

Early Cultural Features. Medieval Teruel became a place of unique cultural synthesis. Christians, Muslims, and Jews lived here side by side, which had a tremendous influence on architecture and crafts. It was thanks to this interaction that the Mudejar style flourished in the city—a distinctive art form combining European and Islamic traditions, now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The economy of the early city relied on livestock farming, and the trade of wool and grain. Additionally, the famous Teruel ceramics began to develop during those times, with masters using rich deposits of local clay to create wares that were valued far beyond the region.

Major Milestones in the History of Teruel

• 1171: King Alfonso II of Aragon officially founds the city, strengthening the southern borders of his kingdom.
• 1177: Approval of the "Fueros de Teruel"—a code of laws granting citizens significant privileges and rights.
• 1257: Construction of the cathedral tower, one of the earliest and most significant monuments of the Mudejar style.
• 13th Century: The period to which the famous story of the tragic love of Isabel de Segura and Diego de Marcilla (The Lovers of Teruel) dates.
• 1377: Completion of the Church of San Pedro, which is today a key element of the city's architectural ensemble.
• 1558: Engineer Pierres Vedel completes the construction of the famous Los Arcos Aqueduct, connecting the city centre with water sources.
• 1833: Teruel receives the status of the administrative centre of the province of the same name during Spain's territorial reform.
• Early 20th Century: The city is enriched with Art Nouveau (Modernisme) buildings, many of which were designed by architect Pablo Monguió.
• 1986: The Mudejar Architecture of Teruel is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
• 2001: Opening of the major palaeontological park "Dinópolis", transforming the city into an important tourist hub.
• 2005: Opening of the new Mausoleum of the Lovers, becoming a place of pilgrimage for romantics from around the world.

Stages of Development and Their Significance for the City

The history of Teruel is not just a succession of dates, but a consistent transformation from a defensive fortress to a cultural and tourist centre of world standards. Below are the key stages that shaped the unique appearance and economy of the city:

• The Flourishing of Mudejar Style (13th–14th Centuries).
  During this period, the architectural code of Teruel was formed. The construction of towers and churches in the Mudejar style was the result of the unique peaceful coexistence of Christian and Muslim craftsmen.
  Significance: Creation of a unique visual image of the city, which centuries later would become the basis of its tourist appeal and the reason for its inclusion in the UNESCO list.
• Engineering Breakthrough of the 16th Century: Los Arcos Aqueduct.
  The construction of the aqueduct-bridge under the leadership of Pierres Vedel solved the critical problem of water supply for the city located on high ground.
  Significance: This structure not only improved the quality of life for citizens but also became an urban planning masterpiece, connecting the historic centre with the suburbs and allowing the city to grow.
• Architectural Renewal of the Early 20th Century (Modernisme).
  Thanks to the economic rise of the local bourgeoisie and the talent of architect Pablo Monguió, the city centre was transformed. Elegant Art Nouveau buildings replaced the austere medieval facades.
  Significance: This stage gave Teruel a metropolitan polish, adorning the Plaza del Torico and surrounding streets, making walks through the city aesthetically rich.
• Recognition as UNESCO World Heritage (1986).
  The inclusion of Mudejar monuments in this prestigious list was a turning point in recent history.
  Significance: Teruel ceased to be just a provincial town and turned into an important point on the cultural map of Europe, which stimulated the development of the hospitality and service sectors.
• Opening of "Dinópolis" Park (2001).
  Creation of Europe's largest palaeontological theme park and science centre based on local discoveries.
  Significance: This project diversified the economy, turning the city into a centre for family tourism and attracting travellers not exclusively interested in medieval history.

Architectural Appearance: A Crossroads of Cultures

Teruel is a unique example of a city where urban planning was dictated not only by the complex mountain landscape but also by the historic coexistence of three cultures: Christian, Muslim, and Jewish. The urban fabric represents a journey through time, where austere medieval masonry sits alongside the airy forms of the early 20th century.

The Mudejar Era (12th–15th Centuries)

This is the "Golden Age" of Teruel's architecture, forming its worldwide fame. The Mudejar style emerged here as a unique synthesis of European Gothic and Islamic decorative traditions, created by the hands of Muslim craftsmen who remained in the city after the Reconquista.

• Characteristic Features: Masterful use of brick instead of expensive stone, rich decoration made of glazed ceramics (traditional green and white colours), complex geometric patterns, and rhomboid ornaments.
• Landmark Sites:
  • The Twin Towers (Tower of San Martín and Tower of El Salvador): Elegant brick structures that performed a dual function—as bell towers and fortified city gates.
  • Cathedral of Santa María: Famous for its tower (one of the oldest in the Mudejar style) and its unique painted wooden ceiling, often called the "Sistine Chapel of Medieval Art".
  • Church of San Pedro: An example of late Mudejar, guarding the history of the famous Lovers of Teruel.

Renaissance and Engineering Thought (16th Century)

During this period, the city's development required solving complex infrastructure tasks. Architecture became more monumental and functional, focusing on the classical proportions of the Renaissance.

• Characteristic Features: Severity of lines, use of hewn stone, large-scale engineering projects.
• Landmark Site: Los Arcos Aqueduct. An ingenious creation by architect Pierres Vedel, which solved the water supply problem and simultaneously became a viaduct connecting the historic centre with the suburbs.

Modernisme (Early 20th Century)

The economic rise of the local bourgeoisie at the beginning of the last century brought new colours to the medieval city. Thanks to architect Pablo Monguió, Teruel received bright examples of the Modernisme (Art Nouveau) style, contrasting with the ancient walls.

• Characteristic Features: Fluid, organic lines, abundant use of wrought iron, floral motifs, and stained glass.
• Landmark Sites: Buildings on the main square, Plaza del Torico, such as Casa del Torico and Casa Ferrán. Their facades are distinguished by lightness and elegance, creating a festive look for the city centre.

Neo-Mudejar and Historicism (20th Century)

In the 20th century, the city turned to its roots, striving to emphasize its historical identity through monumental structures stylized as antiques.

• Landmark Site: La Escalinata (The Staircase). A grand ceremonial staircase built in 1921. It connects the railway station with the historic city centre and is richly decorated with brickwork and ceramics, paying tribute to the Mudejar masters.

Distinguished Figures of Teruel

The spirit of the city was shaped not only by architects and kings but also by creators, scientists, and heroes of legends. Below are key figures whose names are forever inscribed in the history of Teruel.

• Isabel de Segura and Diego de Marcilla (13th Century)
  "The Lovers of Teruel"
  The city's most famous characters, whose tragic love story became the symbol of Teruel. According to legend, Diego died of grief, unable to be with his beloved, and Isabel passed away from a kiss at his funeral. Their story has inspired numerous works of art and the annual festival "The Wedding of Isabel".
• Jerónimo Soriano (c. 1550 – 1617)
  Physician, Pioneer of Paediatrics
  A native of Teruel who dedicated his life to treating children. In 1600, he published the first treatise in Spain entirely dedicated to childhood diseases ("Metodo y orden de curar las enfermedades de los niños"). He is considered the father of Spanish paediatrics.
• Segundo de Chomón (1871 – 1929)
  Film Director and Special Effects Pioneer
  One of the most important filmmakers of the silent era, often compared to Georges Méliès. Born in Teruel, he invented numerous stop-motion techniques and optical illusions, working on films in Barcelona, Paris, and Turin.
• Pablo Monguió (1876 – 1956)
  Architect
  Although born in Tarragona, it was Monguió who became the main creator of Teruel's appearance in the early 20th century. Holding the post of city architect, he introduced Catalan Modernisme into the urban environment, designing iconic buildings such as Casa Ferrán and the portal of the Cathedral.
• Antón García Abril (1933 – 2021)
  Composer and Musician
  An outstanding contemporary composer born in Teruel. Author of symphonic works, operas, and music for many famous Spanish films and television series. He is also the author of the official anthem of Aragon.
• Javier Sierra (born 1971)
  Writer and Journalist
  A contemporary bestselling author and winner of the prestigious Planeta Prize. A native of Teruel, he often promotes his hometown in his appearances. His works have been translated into dozens of languages, contributing to the region's international fame.