The Escalinata del Óvalo is a monumental staircase connecting the upper old town of Teruel with the lower streets near the railway station. Built in 1920 in Neo-Mudéjar style — a conscious revival of the medieval Islamic-influenced architectural tradition that produced the UNESCO towers — it is a striking piece of early 20th-century civic architecture.
The staircase has twin flights flanking a central fountain, all decorated with ceramic tile and patterned brickwork that deliberately echoes the medieval towers above. It functions both as practical infrastructure and as a formal welcome to the city. Coming up from the train station, the Escalinata is your first introduction to Teruel's signature architectural style, and it sets expectations well.