Illueca

02Geography

Illueca covers an area of 24.86 km² and is located in the Iberian system at an elevation of 599 meters. The town is situated along the Aranda River, surrounded by the tectonic massifs of the Sierra de la Virgen and Sierra de la Camamila. It is approximately 89 km from Zaragoza and 39 km from Calatayud, with an average annual temperature of 12.1 °C and annual precipitation of 475 mm.

Distance to Zaragoza

89 km

Distance to Calatayud

39 km

Average annual temperature

12.1 °C

Annual precipitation

475 mm

03History

Illueca has a rich historical background, with references to its medieval names, Illicata and Illoca. After the Reconquista, it became notable under the lordship of Pedro Taresa in the 12th century, and later as part of a barony granted by Jaime I. The town was governed by the influential Casa de Luna family from the 14th to the 17th centuries.

• 12th century Pedro Taresa possesses the castle and town.
• 1250-1343 Illueca forms a barony granted to the family of the last Moorish king of Mallorca.
• 1343 María Pérez de Gotor inherits the barony, marrying Juan Martínez de Luna.
• 1328 Birth of Pedro Martínez de Luna, later Pope Benedict XIII.
• 1528 Illueca recognized as one of the eight noble houses of Aragon.

Illueca, a municipality in Zaragoza, is known for its historical significance and architectural heritage, including the Castle of Papa Luna.

04Economy

The economy of Illueca is primarily industrial, with a historical foundation in textile manufacturing. Currently, the footwear industry dominates, having developed significantly since the 20th century. Agriculture also plays a role, with a focus on viticulture, although it is mainly subsistence farming.

Predominant agricultural crop

Vineyards (40% of cultivated area)

Irrigated land

16% of cultivated area

Historical textile industry

Over 100 looms in mid-19th century

Current main industry

Footwear manufacturing

05Cultural Heritage

Illueca is home to significant historical structures, including the Castle of Papa Luna, which showcases various architectural styles. The town also features the Church of San Juan Bautista and several baroque chapels, reflecting its rich cultural and religious history.

• Castle of Papa Luna Declared a national monument in 1931, featuring mudéjar, Renaissance, and Baroque styles.
• Church of San Juan Bautista Constructed in two phases, with mudéjar and Baroque elements.
• Ermita de San Babil Baroque chapel dedicated to the patron saint of Illueca.
• Ermita de San Ildefonso Located on a hill, featuring a single nave.