Casas de Esper: Copper Mine Route, Cultural Heritage and Nature

The Ruta de las Minas de Cobre begins in Casas de Esper and leads to the entrance of the former mine. The route, completed on foot, takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes and is considered a trail without particular difficulties.

Other destinations: Bardena Del Caudillo, Castejón De Valdejasa, Talamantes, Ateca, Pinseque, Brea De Aragón, Alfajarín, Pedrola.

Culture and History

The copper mine known in Casas de Esper as Mina Isabel or Minas de cobre de Esper is located approximately 500 m southwest of the town centre on the road to Valpamas; a signposted path leads to the entrance. It is partially protected by dry-stone walls. The copper mines were an economic driving force in the surrounding area for many years and are now closed. Malachite and azurite were extracted there. The interior of the mine cannot be entered because of the associated danger.

The Iglesia de la Ascensión is designated as part of Casas de Esper's cultural heritage. The traditional architecture of Casas de Esper is considered simple and harmoniously integrated into its surroundings. The church of Casas de Esper was built in the 18th century; its unusual tower dates from the 20th century. Casa Tolosana is considered the oldest house in Casas de Esper. The bellows from the former forge have been preserved as decoration in Casas de Esper.

Nearby, the Ermita de la Virgen de Miramonte is a Gothic building dating from the 13th to the 14th century. The Crucero del Crucifijo stands there at the fork of the old roads to Puendeluna and Casas de Esper. The main festival of the Ermita de la Virgen de Miramonte takes place on the last Sunday in May; residents of Casas de Esper also take part.

Landscape and Nature

Casas de Esper lies in an area considered to be of great natural beauty. The surrounding area offers hiking routes that combine landscape, history and biodiversity. Nearby, the highest peak of the Sierra de los Blancos offers an impressive view of La Galliguera. The uninhabited settlement of Sierra de los Blancos preserves examples of traditional Aragonese houses.

The information panels along the Ruta de las Minas de Cobre list Aleppo pines, rosemary, Phoenician juniper, broom and kermes oaks as local plants.

Paths and Routes

The Ruta de las Minas de Cobre can be walked independently all year round and is signposted. The official La Recóndita road route by Cyclo5Villas passes through Casas de Esper. For planning purposes, walking time, year-round accessibility and the different types of routes can be considered separately.

Getting There

Bus services for Casas de Esper are listed on the Santa Eulalia–Zaragoza route.

To the overarching travel overview: Saragossa.