The Pozo de Hielo in Lanaja is a cylindrical cistern measuring six metres in diameter and more than eleven metres in height. A masonry dome covers the structure. Ice collected in winter was stored inside for use in summer. Its form, size and purpose make this ice structure a distinctive part of local architectural history.

Church and Ice Structure

The Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción has two naves; the northern one is considerably older. Its Gothic portal features five pointed archivolts and small columns. Archivolts are arch mouldings that frame the portal. The church thus brings together two distinct architectural features: the difference in age between the naves and the design of the Gothic portal.

At the Pozo de Hielo, the structure’s form and former use also complement one another. The measurements indicate the extent of the cylindrical cistern, while the masonry dome is part of its construction. Storing ice collected in winter for use in summer explains the structure’s connection with seasonal use.

Hermitage and Visiting Conditions

The Santa Bárbara Hermitage lies on the road to Poleñino, about one kilometre from Lanaja. The building, partly integrated into the rock, dates from the 19th century and features folk-style paintings and niches; it is in an almost completely ruined state. Its distance, construction and condition give a clear sense of how this site differs from a fully preserved church building.

El Caño is an underground structure about 400 metres long in the north of Lanaja. It is currently not open to visitors. This current information is important for planning: El Caño cannot be included as a visitor attraction.

Wine Experiences and Landscapes

A route to San Caprasio starts in Lanaja and offers panoramic views of both sides of Los Monegros. Its focus differs from that of the architectural sites: here, the landscape takes centre stage, and Lanaja is the route’s starting point.

The Viñedos del Desierto programme offers a guided walk through vineyards sheltered by the Sierra de Lanaja and is available as a bookable visitor experience. On the tour of Bodega El Vino del Desierto in Lanaja, visitors follow the grapes’ journey: from reception through processing, the barrel area and bottling, to the tasting room.

The two wine experiences offer different insights: the walk goes through vineyards, while the winery tour traces the stages of grape processing. Check dates and availability in advance for both guided visits.

Tradition and Further Regional Discoveries

A local description dated 17 July 2024 presents the Dance of Lanaja as a tradition involving both men and women. It includes processions through the streets and dances in the square, including the anticipated ribbon dance. The description offers insight into a tradition that encompasses both public processions and dances in the square.

In the wider region, the Cartuja de las Fuentes is located a few kilometres from Lanaja. It contains more than 1,000 square metres of Late Baroque mural paintings. This excursion adds an explicitly regional point of interest to the local architectural sites; the distance is given as a few kilometres.

Plan Your Stay Around Your Interests

If you are considering Lanaja as a place to stay, you can tailor your search to the focus that interests you: church and architectural history, guided wine experiences, or a route starting in Lanaja with panoramic views of Los Monegros. The Cartuja de las Fuentes offers another regional point of interest. Check dates and availability for guided wine experiences before including them in your plans.

Discover more destinations: Bolea, Botaya, Paúles de Sarsa, Ribagorza, Azanúy, Ponzano, Sopeira, Calvera.

For the main travel overview: Huesca.