In the top 5 of the most populated Spanish cities is Zaragoza, and it should not be far behind if we ask citizens and tourists about which location is ideal to live or spend a few days in. Finding the right location is one of the most crucial aspects to ensure the success of any film project. Zaragoza, through its Zaragoza Film Office, has managed to position itself as a privileged destination for creators, thanks to a combination of unique landscapes, logistical facilities and exceptional support for productions.

A variety of landscapes in one place

Zaragoza presents itself as a melting pot of contrasts, where visual beauty abounds in every corner of its vast territory. This municipality, one of the largest in Spain, is characterised by being traversed by three rivers and having more than ten bridges, creating an incomparable diversity of landscapes. From the semi-desert landscape to the green banks of the Ebro, the city offers endless possibilities. This array of settings is the perfect backdrop to tell any story, from historical dramas to futuristic productions.

The contrasts don’t stop in nature. Architecturally, Zaragoza boasts treasures such as La Aljafería, the northernmost Muslim palace in Europe, alongside Renaissance gems like the Patio de la Infanta. Additionally, the city’s modern legacy, with structures such as the Torre del Agua or the Pabellón Puente, designed by the renowned architect Zaha Hadid, adds a contemporary dimension ideal for innovative and daring projects.

Facilities for audiovisual productions

One of the key points that makes Zaragoza an irresistible place for producers is the efficiency and ease it offers to productions. In just three years, the city has multiplied the number of annual shoots by ten, reflecting Zaragoza’s commitment to the audiovisual sector. Its management model is based on a completely electronic single window, which connects up to 13 municipal services, streamlining all the necessary paperwork for any shoot.

Additionally, Zaragoza has a specialised team within the Zaragoza Film Office, working closely with each production to ensure that the entire process runs smoothly. From auxiliary services to the connection with the Convention Bureau, which includes hotels and hospitality services, everything is designed so that shoots, especially complex ones, proceed without a hitch.

Economic advantages and commitment to sustainability

Another undeniable attraction of Zaragoza is its geostrategic location. Situated halfway between key cities such as Madrid, Barcelona, Bilbao, and Valencia, and with an excellent rail network, the Aragonese capital is easily accessible, a crucial factor for productions. This accessibility is not only fast but also sustainable, as the city boasts numerous train connections that support eco-friendly transport.

In terms of costs, Zaragoza offers a clear advantage over other Spanish cities. The cost of living and services is significantly lower compared to Madrid or Barcelona, translating into substantial savings for productions. On top of that, there’s a 30% tax incentive, in line with the rest of Spain, and specific cultural grants offered by the city, adding further appeal to production companies.

Moreover, Zaragoza is committed to being a climate-neutral city by 2030, an added value that resonates particularly with productions seeking to reduce their carbon footprint and adopt more sustainable practices.

Technology and talent: a promising future

Zaragoza doesn’t just focus on the present but also on the future. With technology as a driving force for growth, the city has promoted projects like Distrito 7, an audiovisual ecosystem that will include both traditional and virtual studios, as well as a training and entrepreneurship centre. This project, expected to be operational by 2026, places Zaragoza at the forefront of the audiovisual sector, integrating local innovation and talent with opportunities for national and international productions.

Success stories: Zaragoza on the big screen

Zaragoza has been the setting for some of the most outstanding Spanish films in recent years. Movies like La Estrella Azul, by Javier Macipe, or the comedy Menudas Piezas, by Nacho García Velilla, have put the city on the map, attracting more viewers and solidifying its reputation as an ideal place for cinema. Zaragoza’s cultural impact on film is nothing new: from the first preserved Spanish film, “Salida de misa de doce”, to major international productions like “Salomón y la reina de Saba” or “Vampire Academy”, Zaragoza has been the backdrop for many memorable stories.

Moreover, the city has recently launched its cinematic routes, a tour allowing visitors to discover the settings of more than 90 feature films and series shot in Zaragoza. This new tourist approach not only highlights its history on the big screen but also opens up new opportunities for the development of film tourism.

In short, Zaragoza, with its rich history, constant support for productions, and commitment to sustainability and technology, stands out as an ideal destination for any audiovisual project. Zaragoza Film Office is ready to facilitate every step of the way, ensuring that any production finds the perfect stage in this city for its stories.