Why Spain? » Aragón

Saragossa, the capital and financial centre of Aragon, is the fifth largest city in Spain. The Expo 2008 and the high-speed train link with Madrid and Barcelona are the two chief factors that have contributed both to the city's economic expansion and its growing popularity as a meetings and event destination. Offering a variety of well-appointed congress, exhibition and tradeshow centres, in addition to excellent convention and event hotels, the city is a highly attractive destination whose traditions, festivals and cuisine are far removed from the typical clichés associated with Spain.

Only 35 minutes away for Saragossa by high-speed train, Huesca is the gateway to the Pyrenees. Thanks to the city's new congress facilities and the proximity of some of the best ski stations in the country, such as those of Astur, Formigal or Candanchu, the province is an ideal meetings and incentive destination for winter sports and climbing enthusiast, as well as for those wanting to relax in one of the fabulous health resorts be found in the Pyrenean foothills.

Equidistant from Saragossa and Valencia, the UNESO World Heritage Site of Teruel, famous for the mausoleum of "The Lovers", its stunning Mudejar architecture, and the drums and trumpets of its solemn Easter Week processions, is an ideal destination for small- to medium-sized events. Any pre- or post-meeting programme worthy of the name ought to include a tour of the province and its charming localities, above all the splendidly preserved medieval village of Albarracin, near to place where the River Tajo has its source, Alcañiz, and Samper de Calanda.

Embracing the glaciers, high mountain peaks, and thickly wooded ravines and foothills of the Pyrenees, the fertile plain and arid steppes of the majestic River Ebro, and the steep valleys of the sierra of Teruel, Aragon is one of the most bio-diverse regions in Europe. Its 13 protected areas – including the Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park, the Biosphere Reserve of Ordesa-Viñamala and the Dehesa del Moncayo Natural Park – are a powerful lure for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, adventure sports addicts, and skiers, alike.

Aragon also has a long and fascinating history reflected in its traditions and historic and cultural heritage. The Iberian settlements of San Antonio de Calaceite and Azaila in Teruel, the fortified palace of Aljaferia and the Roman remains at Saragossa, the Mozarabic monuments for which the province of Huesca is second only to Castile and Leon, above all, the monastery of San Juan de la Peña and the churches of Serrablo, plus many sublime examples of Romanesque, Gothic, Baroque, Mudejar and Renaissance architecture, are just some of attractions that the region affords visitors.