The ancient little town of Alcañiz, situated in a bend on the Río Guadalope, is the center of one of the most characteristic parts of Lower Aragón, noted for the production of olive oil. The town stands on a steeply sloping eminence, surrounded by hills. It is noted for the sweets produced here. A Roman army was annihilated by the Carthaginians here in 212 B.C.. In the 12th century Alfonso I conquered the area and built a castle on Pui Pinos ("Pine Hill") which became the headquarters of the Order of Calatrava in Aragon. Alcañiz was the favorite residence of Jaime I.
In the Plaza de España of Alcañiz, forming a harmonious group, are the 16th century Ayuntamiento (Town Hall), in severe style, and the richly decorated 15th century Lonja. The Town Hall has the town's coat of arms in the center of the facade, and within it are preserved fragments of Juan de Lanuza's tomb and other remains. With its pointed arches the Lonja has a rather Italian air; once the market hall, it is now the House of Culture.
Near the Alcañiz Town Hall stands the church of Santa María la Mayor (1736), a massive and imposing structure of cathedral-like dimensions. The richly decorated doorway leads into the magnificent interior, the most striking features of which are the great high altar and the domed chapels.
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