Belchite

Belchite is a municipality located in the province of Zaragoza, Aragon, Spain. It is most famously known for the "old" Belchite, a town that was almost entirely destroyed during the Spanish Civil War. The Battle of Belchite took place in August and September of 1937, a Republican offensive aimed at diverting Nationalist forces from Madrid. The fighting was brutal and protracted, resulting in the complete devastation of the original town.

Following the war, the Nationalist government decided not to rebuild the destroyed Belchite. Instead, a new town was constructed nearby. The ruins of old Belchite were intentionally preserved as a memorial and a stark reminder of the war's destruction. The site is often referred to as the "ghost town" or "ruined town" and has become a significant historical landmark.

Visitors can explore the atmospheric ruins of old Belchite, walking among its skeletal buildings and silent streets. The site offers a poignant glimpse into the past and the impact of conflict. The new town of Belchite continues to function as a living community, existing alongside its somber, historical counterpart. The contrast between the modern, inhabited town and the preserved ruins of the old town is a striking feature of the area. The history of Belchite is deeply intertwined with the Spanish Civil War, making it a place of historical and memorial importance.