Sights of Girona in Spain. Onyar river and colorful houses. Cheap flights to Girona

Catalan Girona is a city where Romanesque buildings of the 10th-12th centuries still stand, and valuable artifacts from the Roman period and the dark times of the Early Middle Ages are stored in museums. The power of the past centuries seems to be frozen forever in the facades of the houses of the Jewish Quarter and the outlines of formidable Romanesque churches.

Girona is far from the coveted beaches of the Costa Brava, but this does not lose its value. Many tourists come here on excursions from resort towns coast to diversify the lazy beach holiday and are satisfied. In addition to grandiose architectural sights, Girona has several standing museums, where priceless exhibits are stored, representing big interest for history buffs.

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What to see and where to go in Girona?

The most interesting and Beautiful places for walks. Photos and a short description.

The fortress walls of Girona were built in the 1st century during the heyday of the Roman Empire, they were part of defensive structures who protected the road from Rome to Seville. Only a small part of the walls, which has been restored, has survived to this day. From the observation decks located along the perimeter, a panoramic view of the city opens. Nowadays, the fortress walls are a popular tourist attraction.

Sculpture of the 11th century, installed next to the church of Sant Feliu. The figure of a lioness is somewhat reminiscent of the famous Roman she-wolf. There are many beliefs associated with this attraction. According to one of them, it is believed that if you kiss a lioness in the back, then all wishes will come true. For these purposes, a special ladder is even attached to the sculpture. In fact, the sculpture is the heraldic symbol of Girona, and kissing in unusual place- just a joke.

Jews began to settle in Girona from the 9th century. Their community was very powerful before the wave of persecution that swept Europe in the 15th century began. The expelled Jews were replaced by poor Christian families who were not engaged in the arrangement of houses in the quarter. That is why the area has come down to us almost in its original form. Nowadays, El Cal has become a bohemian quarter, where real estate costs a lot of money.

One of the central squares of Girona, located on the site of the monastery of St. Augustine. The architectural appearance of the place took shape in the 19th century. The square is surrounded by austere facades of neoclassical buildings and sculptural colonnades. It hosts mass social events, festive bazaars and music festivals. On Independence Square there are many restaurants and bars with outdoor summer areas.

The central walking boulevard of Girona, filled with tourists in any season. The Rambla de la Libertad has numerous cafes, boutiques and gift shops. Until 1809, along the street passed city ​​wall but it was destroyed by Napoleon's troops. On weekends, there is a flower market where a huge number of a wide variety of species are sold. From the street, you can turn into the Jewish quarter or walk to the bridges over the Onyar River.

The first Romanesque church on the site of the modern cathedral was erected in the 11th century. In the Roman era, there was a pagan sanctuary here. In the 14th century there appeared gothic building, which was completed only in the XVI century. As a result of later reconstructions, the cathedral acquired a Baroque façade. The inner courtyard of the church has been preserved since the 12th century; inside there are many ancient relics of great cultural value.

The temple was erected in the 14th century on the site of an early Romanesque church, where the graves of the patrons of the city, St. Philip and St. Narcissus, were located. In the 16th century, a tower was added to the building, and in the 17th century, work on the facade was completed. interior retained a severe Romanesque appearance with characteristic massive galleries. Roman and early Christian burials have also been preserved on the territory of the temple.

The monastery was founded in the XII century and first belonged to the brothers of the Order of St. Benedict. The building in the Romanesque style with a two-story bell tower has survived to this day. In the XIV century, the complex went to the state. WITH 19th century The abbey houses a museum now known as the Archaeological Museum of Girona. One of its most valuable exhibits is considered to be the ancient mosaic Chariot Races and an ancient sarcophagus dating back to the 4th century.

The exposition of the museum is dedicated to the history and culture of the Jewish community, which has lived in Catalonia since the Early Middle Ages. The collection is housed in 11 thematic halls, which include "Diaspora", "Jewish Quarter", "Synagogue", "Cemetery" and others. In the museum you can learn about the life and way of life of Jews, traditions and religious rites. Periodically, temporary exhibitions are organized on the territory of the museum.

A private museum that owns a rather impressive exposition, consisting of 30 thousand items. The collection is devoted to the history of theater and cinema, from the period of Antiquity to the present day. The museum houses the Lumiere brothers' film projector, many old posters, photographs and films. The gallery was opened in 1998 and became the first museum of its kind in Spain.

The museum is located in the building of the Bishop's Palace, which, according to evidence, was erected in the 10th century. The last restructuring of the building dates back to the 16th century, it was then in architectural appearance The palace was made features of the Renaissance. The museum collection consists of 8.5 thousand exhibits. Here are stored historical artifacts belonging to the time period from the Roman era to the 20th century.

The baths are located in the central part of Girona; they were built in the 12th century during the reign of King Alfonso I. The building was built in the style typical for cities North Africa. At first, the baths belonged to the royal family, but after the reconstruction of the 13th century, access was open to everyone. In the 15th century, the baths again passed into private ownership and were subsequently closed. Reconstruction was made in the XX century.

Pedestrian bridge across the Onyar River, designed by the famous G. Eiffel, the architect of the Eiffel Tower in Paris. The bridge at Girona was built in 1876, a design that was revolutionary for its time, as Eiffel used metal ties to increase strength. The Gustave Eiffel Bridge is a fairly compact structure that harmoniously fits into the surrounding landscape.

A small city park covering an area of ​​40 hectares, on the territory of which huge 150-year-old trees grow with a trunk height of up to 50 meters. It is good to be in the shade of these giants during the exhausting Catalan heat. Located in the park Botanical Garden and a banana grove. For citizens and tourists, this place is a real green oasis, giving a long-awaited coolness.

A waterway that flows through the center of Girona. The embankment of the Onyar River is built up with houses with colored facades, which gives it a rather festive and elegant look. These facades have long since become calling card cities, many tourists come to see them. The houses were built in the 17th century on the site of the demolished city wall, since then they have been rebuilt several times, but still retained their original appearance.

Girona is rich in attractions, despite the fact that it is a province. Since the time of the Iberians, the city has performed important economic, strategic and cultural functions. For example, in its history the city was under siege 25 times. It has not lost its purpose to this day. Its importance in the life of Spain cannot be overestimated.

How to get there

Getting to Girona is easy. For example, you can take a direct flight from Moscow to Girona once a week. The only downside is the high prices. Experienced tourists are advised to get to Girona from Barcelona by train or car. By highway, the distance from Barcelona to Girona is only 100 km, and this path can be covered in an hour and a half. Not far from here and to the border with France, only 60 kilometers.

The pearl of the city is its center. This so-called Old city, spread out on a hill near the Onyar River, is connected by bridges with the modern part of the city. By the way, one of the bridges across the Onyar River was created by the world-famous Eiffel. Despite the huge difference between the time of construction, high-rise buildings modern city and the centuries-old buildings of the Old City do not contradict each other.

The multicolored houses of the Old Town have long been Girona's hallmark. If you travel by train, then you will spend only fifteen minutes to find yourself in the city center. If your transport is an airplane, then take a bus, a ticket to the center costs 5 euros.

The heart of the city is the Rambla, the main boulevard Llibertat, or rather, a square where you can always see something interesting or buy something tasty. The fact is that historically the rambla is a place where trade flourishes. Spanish farmers sell products from their farm here. Street musicians and dancers put on daily performances for the delight of tourists. In addition, there are many shops and establishments where you can eat.

Previously, there was a city wall here, but during the conquest by the French, the wall was destroyed by the enemy side. The buildings erected on the Ramblas were built only in the 19th century, unlike many others in the old city. Some structures were built by the Romans, such as the North Gate. I must say that in addition to the Rambla in Girona, there are several other notable squares. One of them is Independence Square, the other is Plaza Catalunya.

Cathedral

If you climb up from the Rambla to the top of the hill, then you will come to the Cathedral, which was built over several centuries from the 14th to the 17th centuries. However, one person is considered the creator of the cathedral - Guillemo Bofil, and the date of construction is 1416. Such a long construction could not but affect the style of the building. There are also Gothic architectural forms, and Baroque, and Renaissance, and Romanesque style.

The grandeur of the cathedral is amazing. Its walls seem to protect visitors. By the way, this cathedral has the second largest Gothic nave with a width of 23 meters. The cathedral is also remembered due to the presence of the throne of King Charles.

To the right of the cathedral is the episcopal palace, within the walls of which Art Museum. The most famous exhibit of his collection is a silver altar created in the 10th century and brought from the church of Sant Pere de Rodes.

Museum at the Cathedral

Of particular interest is the museum at the cathedral, you should definitely visit it. The exposition of the museum is small, it consists of religious relics, shrines, manuscripts, ancient paintings and sculptures, objects of church worship. Such significant rarities should not be many. Probably the most significant thing is the 11th century carpet, on which the scene of the creation of the world is reproduced.

The attractions of Girona in Spain do not end with the above. Perhaps the Arab baths deserve attention. They let you in for a fee, about 7 euros. Since the time of construction, and this was in the XII century, the baths have been restored several times. It is noteworthy that the baths were built in the Romanesque era, and are not at all authentic Muslim baths, since the Arabs left Girona long before construction began.

Girona is also famous for its Jewish quarter. And he, in turn, is known for its narrow streets, penetrating it up and down. The Star of David flaunts on the stones here, and in some doorways there are recesses in which a prayer written on parchment was fixed. In 1492, however, the Jews were expelled from Spain, because their presence did not please the rulers of that time, Ferdinand and Isabella, who sought to convert the entire population to Catholicism. If you are interested in the history of the Jews, then you can visit the Museum, which is called the Museum of the History of the Jews. All visitors will be warmly welcomed.

In some places, the fortress walls of ancient Roman origin, buried in gardens, are still preserved. From the top of the fortress wall, the Old Town is visible at a glance.

Nearby is the University of Girona. The building of the university once served the monks, there was a monastery of San Dominic. A similar fate befell the monastery of St. Peter Galligans, which is currently the Archaeological Museum.

The city's patrons are Saints Felix and Narcissus. Saint Narcissus' Day is celebrated annually on October 29th. In honor of Felix, the church of Esglesia de Sant Feliu was erected in the 14th century. Sant Feliu is famous for its alabaster figure of Christ dating back to 1350.

In Girona, you can also go shopping, visiting many small and large shops scattered throughout the city. Many well-known world brands are represented here. Here is such a wonderful city waiting for you to visit. And it should be noted that you will not be disappointed, just as tourists who have already been here have not been disappointed.

The history of the modern Catalan city of Girona began under the Iberians, when the city was a fortress. Today it is the center of the province with the same name and a population of approximately 98 thousand people, which is divided by a wide canal into the Old Town and a part with modern buildings.

Girona has always been considered an important military point. It is also called the city of a thousand sieges. It has been under the control of many nations that have left their mark on history, culture and appearance this romantic place. The historical part has been perfectly preserved, thanks to which this Catalan city attracts tourists every year. a large number of travelers. The sights of Girona are many colorful holidays and festivals, modernity combined with a medieval appearance make the city one of the most interesting tourist places Spain.

The most interesting sights of Girona

- the pride of the locals, the cultural heritage of Catalonia of great historical value. The cathedral was built from the 14th to the 18th century and has the widest Gothic nave in the world. It houses a museum with the rarest illustrated manuscripts of the tenth century and a unique woven carpet called "Creation of the World". It also contains frescoes, tapestries, paintings, exquisite collections of exhibits made of gold and silver.

Benedict Monastery of Saint Pere de Geligans - the date of its foundation is 722. This monastery houses the Museum of Archeology, and in the church of the monastery, many tombstones have been preserved, including ancient Hebrew ones, which were once transferred here.

- an architectural landmark of Girona of the 12th century. The name of the building was due to the style popular at that time in which it was carried out. The Arabic style of execution gave the baths a resemblance to the ancient Roman ones. Now there is a museum here.

- located in the east of the old city. The history of the walls dates back to the ancient Romans. From the corner towers used as observation decks, a beautiful view to the Old City from the inside. Under the walls there are parks with gardens and fountains. You can walk along the wall to the Cathedral Square in 30 minutes.

Jewish Quarter and Museum of Jewish History Ramban center - the area between Forsa Street and the city wall. In the Middle Ages, the area was called El Kal and was densely populated by Jews. The school of Kabbalah was formed in this place in the 13th century. In this century, the founder of the doctrine, physician and philosopher Ramban was born and lived here. The history of the quarter began in 890 with the resettlement of 20 Jewish families here. This settlement was many times subjected to persecution, pogroms and all sorts of troubles, until in 1492 all the Jews of Spain were expelled from the country. Today the quarter has been carefully restored. And the Museum of the History of the Jews, the Research Institute named after Nachmanides (Ramban) and the library form a single Cultural Center. In the narrow streets of this quarter you can buy interesting souvenirs, wine, sweets, books.

Church of Saint Feliu - its chapel keeps the relics of the patron saint of Girona - St. Narcissus. Inside the temple there is a statue of Christ revered by all the townspeople made of alabaster by Master Aloi of 1350, six sarcophagi of the 4th century, an altar of the 16th century.

- located on the square in front of the Church of St. Feliu. On the column is its exact copy, the original of the 12th century is in the Museum of Art. There is such an interesting belief: if you kiss the Lioness under the tail, any wish will come true and you will see Girona again. It is for this purpose that a special ladder was installed behind the Girona Lioness. Judging by the brilliance of the back of the Lioness, many believe in this hilarious belief!

Episcopal Palacio Palace Episcopal — ancient building 12th - 16th centuries It is worth a visit for the Museum of Art with collections from the period 10th - 20th centuries. Particularly interesting is the silver altar of the 10th century, carved fragments of ornaments, a wooden beam with figurines of monks (12th century).

Museum of the History of the City of Girona - it contains historical documents concerning the history of the city from its founding by the first settlers.

Rambla Libertad (Rambla de la Llibertat) – you should definitely visit this central pedestrian street with many restaurants of European and national cuisine, bars and shops.

Museum of Cinema Museo del Cine — this landmark of Girona will be a paradise for moviegoers. After all, about 30,000 cinematic exhibits from the private collection of Thomas Marolla are exhibited here, showing the history of "moving pictures" from the stages of creating shadows on the wall to the latest Hollywood technologies.

Having visited all the above sights of Girona, do not forget - this city is very tasty food, delicacies and sweets! Therefore, be sure to visit the Zanpanzar tavern with Basque cuisine, the Petit Paradis gourmet shop with sausages, cheeses and truffles, relax in the Un Cub cafe on the plane trees in Plaza Catalunya or taste great sweets and ice cream at the Rocambolesc patisserie. Ancient and cozy Girona will not leave you indifferent!

Among the legendary cities of Spain, the capital of the eponymous province of Girona occupies special place- it has existed for more than 2.5 thousand years.

Tourists come here from all over the world to see the history with their own eyes - the preserved Old Town of the Middle Ages and other attractions. Holidays on the coasts of the Costa Brava and Costa Dorada are a great opportunity to go on an excursion to Girona - after all, from Lloret de Mar, Tossa, Palamos, Calella, the road by bus or train will take just 30-40 minutes.

Our little overview guide with short descriptions interesting objects will help you choose what to see in Girona according to your preferences and the time you have.

The beauty of Girona.
Photo: flickr.com/ferrariguy90

Tatyana, Klin:

“From Lloret to Girona it is very convenient to travel by bus. Already in place from Placa de Catalunya - central square, "hanging" over the river - they crossed to the other side, on the way they found a tourist office where they give for free detailed map. The distances there are small - transport is not needed, comfortable shoes are needed.
We managed to see a lot on the run, wandered around the huge fortress, took a lot of pictures. The park is the most beautiful. And how many have not seen yet!

We suggest you take a walk around the city:

A bit of history

Girona was founded in 79 BC. people from North Africa - Iberians. Later, at this place, at the confluence of the rivers Onyar and Ter, the Romans erected a fortress to protect the Via Augusta road linking Rome with the Spanish Cadiz. She passed through main street Old town - Carrer de la Forca.

Perfectly preserved Fortress La Força Vella - a powerful structure made of hewn boulders- had an important strategic importance and often subjected to sieges and destruction. Moors, Visigoths fought for it, the last was Napoleon Bonaparte.

Medieval walls of the Carrer de la Força.
Photo: flickr.com/tonivc

Landmarks

Girona is divided into two parts by the river Onyar. On the left gently sloping bank - modern quarters, on the right, on the hill of the Capuchins - quarters of the Old Town- Barri Vell, Mercadal and Carme-Vista Alegre.

Outpost historical center- a row of multi-colored residential buildings standing close to the water (XVII century). Towers rise behind them - bell towers Cathedral and the temple of St. Felix, the chapel del Carme, and then the Pyrenees soar.

Colored houses on the banks of the Onyar River.
Photo: flickr.com/smb_flickr

From the bus station and railway station, where tourists usually arrive, to Plaza Catalunya - 10-15 minutes. on foot. The main attractions of Girona are concentrated on the right bank.

You can go to the Old Town on one of 11 bridges, each of them is interesting in its own way. The bridge of red steel profiles (Pont De Ferro), built by Gustave Eiffel, leads to the main street of the Old Town - Rambla de la Libertad.

Steel bridge Pont De Ferro.
Photo: flickr.com/f0ff0

Minimum program

From the east, north and south The old city is surrounded by a fortress wall (IX century) - Passeig de la Muralla. You can climb it and go around the entire center along the perimeter, moving from alley to alley with passages, bridges, steps hidden in arches. Observation platforms are arranged on numerous towers with steep spiral staircases.

See what kind of view opens from one of them:

You can start the tour on your own from any point, but it is better to go through the northern Roman gate - a wide esplanade and a 90-step staircase leading to the Cathedral opens in front of them.

Catedral de Santa Maria

Cathedral is considered the most beautiful monument Catalan architecture, it is only slightly smaller than St. Peter's in the Vatican. Catedral began to be built in 1312 and was endlessly completed until the 19th century, resulting in a harmonious fusion of Roman style, Catalan baroque and Gothic.

Cathedral of the Catedral de Santa Maria.
Photo: flickr.com/dailymatador

Treasury at the Cathedral - the second largest museum of medieval art in Spain after Barcelona. The most valuable exhibits are the Creation of the World tapestry, the book of the Apocalypse, an Arabic casket, a collection of Gothic sculptures.

Take a look inside the cathedral:

You can go to the cathedral on any day (10:00-19:30), ticket price - 7 euros, on Sundays - admission is free.

Igor Avdeev:

“Visitors are allowed into the cathedral from the Square of the Apostles through the side door, to the right of the main entrance. But we came early and made it through main entrance without a ticket. The temple is beautiful from the outside, but from the inside it is simply indescribable - a rich interior, twilight, high arches made of rough stone, stained-glass windows. And by noon, groups with loud-voiced guides went, even the organ was hard to hear.

Square and Basilica of Sant Feliu

Next to the cathedral, on St. Philip's Square, is the first Christian basilica of Girona Esglesia de Sant Feliu (X century) - a monumental Romanesque building with Gothic naves and a Baroque facade. The sculpture of the reclining Christ (XIV century) is kept in the church, and ancient Christian shrines (IV century) are immured into the apse wall. From the bell tower you can see all the sights of Girona.

Visit the Basilica of Esglesia de Sant Feliu:

The Basilica is open from 10:00 to 17:30, on Sundays from 13:00 to 17:30.

S. Andreev:

“The cathedral and the church of Sant Feliu can be reached by single ticket for 7 euros. The price includes an audio guide - free tour. If you look around on your own, a lot will pass by. There are marks on the map where to stay. We read the reviews and were on the alert - sometimes they forget to give it out and you have to ask.

Jewel of Girona - Jewish Quarter

El Cal, clinging to the fortress and the Cathedral with narrow streets, dead ends, arches, steep stairs, has changed little since the Middle Ages.

The Jewish community settled here in the 9th century. It was a city within a city - wealthy and influential residents, adherents of Kabbalah brought prosperity to Girona, but they were allowed to live only on a piece of land, so houses with narrow windows grew up.

In 1492, persecution of Jews began in Catalonia for refusing to accept Christianity. The empty houses were occupied by the poor. Since then, outwardly, nothing has changed here.

Now it's trendy and prestigious area where the bohemia lives.

Take a tour of the Jewish Quarter:

Continuation of acquaintance

The ideal option is to come to Girona for 2-3 days, then the impressions will be fuller and brighter, but even in a day you can visit:

• Benedictine monastery of St. Peter Galligans, founded in the X century. - the most significant example of the Romanesque style in Catalonia and a three-nave church with four apses - Esglesia de Sant Pere.

• The San Daniel Valley with the monastery, the church and the tomb of St. Daniel.
• Arab baths (XII-XIII centuries). - imitation of Muslim medieval baths in the Roman style.

Baths have nothing to do with the Arabs. They got their name "Arab" because of the similarity of the style of buildings with the architecture of Muslim medieval baths.
Photo: flickr.com/tonivc

• Las Ramblas, built in the 13th century, with vaulted ceilings and multi-level arches. Was once here covered market and now it is crowded - restaurants, shops, street vendors, artists and a strong, delicious smell of coffee.

medieval quarter

In the XI-XV centuries. Girona was quickly built up: with the quarters of Sant Feliu and Sant Pere in the north, Areni and Villanova in the south, Mercadal in the west. They were surrounded by new fortress walls, the remains of which are still preserved. Worth seeing here:

• Agullana Palace (XIV-XVII centuries) with a unique sloping arched span and a cascade staircase leading to the Jesuit monastery of San Marti Sacosta;

One of the legends of Girona says that vampires lived in the palace of Agullana in the Middle Ages, keeping the whole city in fear.
Photo: flickr.com/jofre

• Monastery of San Domenech - the first example of Gothic in Catalonia. Now it houses several faculties of the University of Girona;
• Neoclassical Independence Square;

• Plaza del Vi with the old town hall, city hall and city theater (XIX century);
• big park area Parc de la Devesa between the channels three rivers- Onyar, Ter and Güell.

Girona modern

In Girona, there are many buildings in the Art Nouveau and Novecentism styles (a fusion of Art Nouveau with Catalan neoclassicism), erected famous architects. Rafael Maso, who is called the second Gaudi, worked here. He left a rich legacy - the Casa Maso waterfront house (open to the public), the Farinera Teixidor flour factory, the Athenea cultural center.

House of Rafael Maso on the waterfront Casa Maso:

On the left-bank territory there are many parks where it is pleasant to walk with children - there are playgrounds everywhere.

Museums in Girona

There are several large museums in the city: art (open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 7 pm, ticket - 2 euros), archaeological, history of Girona Jews (entrance ticket - 4 euros), cinematography.

commit virtual tour Girona Historical Museum:

Neighborhood

Near Girona there are also many attractions worthy of attention:

• Valley of the Empordà - by abundance and beauty medieval castles(Voulpeillac, Emporda, San Miguel, Palau Sacosta, Ostalric) not inferior to the Loire Valley in France;

Province of Girona - City of Ostalric:

• the medieval city of Besalu is a national treasure;

• the seaside town of Cadaqués is a favorite vacation spot for avant-garde artists;

• the medieval village of Pubol, where the castle of Gala is located - the muse of Salvador Dali (the cost of visiting is 8 euros);

Walk along the Salvador Dalí de Púbol:

• the towns of Olot and Banyoles with museums and monuments of Roman and Catalan history - gateways, mills, forges;

• volcanic reserve la Garrotxa with picturesque lake Banyoles and the ancient estates of Morgat and Pudos.

Express tours

If there is very little time, you can ride around the city on tourist bus route L11 - it passes by all the main attractions (ticket - 1.4 euros).

From central tourist office at the Pont de Redra bridge, Carrilets Turístics leaves - a train with open cars and a guide. He makes a full circle around the perimeter of the Old City. Duration of the trip - 40 minutes, ticket - 4 euros. Night trips last 2 hours and include an ascent to Montjuic Castle - the highest point in Girona.

No matter how much time you would spend in Girona - 2 hours or 2 days, in this amazing city there is always something to watch next time.

Have a great trip to the Middle Ages, we are waiting for your feedback!

Girona is the dazzling pearl of Spain, which allows its guests to plunge into the magical atmosphere of true Spanish traditions, culture and history. The noble city beckons with its old streets, unique architecture and landscapes that enchant the soul. Magnificent Girona is full of cultural and historical sights, but it is still worth highlighting the most significant of them. So the main sights of Girona.

1. Girona Cathedral

The main cathedral is Girona's key attraction. After it was built at the beginning of the 14th century, it was rebuilt several times, absorbing the elements of a particular era and architectural style. Today, the cathedral attracts the attention of all tourists visiting Girona. In order to get inside the majestic building, guests of the city have to overcome about a hundred steps. locals claim that each of the steps saves a person from one sin.

The property of the Cathedral is the treasury, which stores ancient icons and chests, showered with precious stones. The treasury itself is located in the world-famous museum, which houses a number of valuable paintings, icons, sculptures and other significant art objects.

2. Arab baths

Today, this attraction of the city of Girona is included in the List of National Treasures of Spain. Despite their name, baths have nothing to do with Arab countries And Arabic culture. Outwardly, they resemble a temple. The building was built at the beginning of the XII century for the needs of the people, in the XVII century it was transferred to the convent.

Many years later, the city regained the Arab baths, and it was then that the decision was made to open them to tourists. Of course, it is no longer possible to use them for their intended purpose due to the fact that over time they have been greatly destroyed. But today they are a historical landmark that most visitors to Girona visit.

3. Jewish Quarter El Call

This unique landmark of Girona is of great interest to tourists. This is due to the fact that the quarter miraculously preserved all the elements of the era in which it was created. In the 9th century, Jews massively settled in the then rich area and lived here right up to the 15th century, until they were evicted by the native Spaniards. Since then, the quarter has become a home for the poorest Spaniards, who simply did not have the financial opportunity to change their homes in any way. Thus, the Jewish Quarter has conveyed to this day its deep history and culture.

Almost all tourists visiting Girona tend to visit El Call and feel its colorful atmosphere.

4. Houses along the Onyar River

The motley multi-colored houses that adorn the coast of the central river of Girona will certainly be remembered by everyone who comes to this spanish city. Bright and original buildings have become one of the symbols of Girona and often decorate all kinds of postcards and souvenirs.

They were built on the ruins of the city wall, which for many years protected Girona from all sorts of militant encroachments. After that, they were repeatedly rebuilt, which as a result gave them such a unique look.

Due to the fact that the houses are tightly adjacent to the Onyar River, they cannot be bypassed. But you can admire them while walking along any of the bridges over the river.

5. Church of Sant Feliu

This temple is of particular importance for the inhabitants of the city, since it is dedicated to two saints who are the patrons of Girona - St. Narcissus and St. Felix. The ashes of St. Narcissus rest here, in one of the eight sarcophagi. The most significant elements of the temple are the statue of Jesus Christ, the altar, as well as the Girona lion climbing the column at the entrance to the temple.

Most tourists prefer to combine a visit to this temple with a visit to the Arab Baths, since these two attractions of Girona are close to each other.

6. Girona History Museum

Considering the fact that Girona is famous for its long and rich history, it would be very strange if there was no history museum here. Gironian historical Museum is located in the heart of the city and attracts millions of guests with its rich exposition. The oldest exhibits date back to the 1st century BC. The highlight of the museum is the stunning collection of musical instruments. In total, the museum has fourteen exhibition halls, each of which is dedicated to a particular topic. All themes reflect one or another era of the historical evolution of Girona.

In addition to its direct exposition function, the museum is very actively developing educational and educational activities, constantly conducting various educational programs, lectures and master classes. It will be very interesting to visit this place in Girona.

7. Lombard Church

This stunning architectural landmark is located in the old town of Girona and traditionally attracts a large number of tourists. The temple was built at the beginning of the twelfth century and is dedicated to Saint Nicholas. Initially, it was supposed to serve as a chapel at the monastery, but later acquired the status of a full-fledged temple.

Today, the Lombard Church is unique object cultural and historical heritage and stores rare ancient icons, paintings and sculptures. A special property of the church are ancient burials, which are very well preserved to this day.

8. Museum of Archeology of Catalonia

The delightful museum is one of the museums of archeology in Catalonia, located in the most major cities this region. The Museum of Archeology in Girona is located on the territory of the monastery of Sant Pere de Galliganz.

Most of the exhibits presented in the museum were found during excavations ancient city Herunds. Today, residents and guests of the city visit the museum in order to see unique historical exhibits that cover the period from the prehistoric era to the Middle Ages. Of particular importance in the exposition of the museum are ancient sarcophagi.

9. Monastery of St. Peter Galligans

This surprisingly small, but very significant, monastery is located on the banks of the Galligans River. Unusual feature The monastery is that since its construction in the 12th century it has never been rebuilt, and has retained its original appearance.

The monastery is so small that only five monks served in it. A special asset of the monastery is the church, which has been very well preserved to this day. Its unusual architecture has not changed either.

Today on the territory of the monastery is Archaeological Museum which attracts many tourists from all over the world. In addition to the permanent exhibition, you can often see very interesting temporary exhibitions brought from all over the world.

10. Cinema Museum

This is one of the newest and certainly the most interesting attractions in Girona. The Cinema Museum was opened only 19 years ago and became the first and only museum of its kind in Spain. The museum exposition consists of 20 thousand cinematic exhibits from the personal collection of Thomas Malela. In addition to the permanent exhibition, interesting temporary exhibitions often come here. Also, various training programs, lectures, master classes are regularly organized in the cinema museum and there is a very good acting school.