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About Girona
Girona, dubbed “the Venice of Spain,” is truly a beautiful city - rich in museums and history and home to charming boutiques and cafes.
Girona, dubbed “the Venice of Spain,” is truly a beautiful city - rich in museums and history and home to charming boutiques and cafes. It is located in Catalonia, between Barcelona and Costa Brava, and features medieval walls, a maze of narrow streets and alleys, and one of Europe’s best preserved Jewish Quarters.
Built on the king's road from Rome to Cadiz, the city was named Gerunda by the Romans. It was conquered in the 8th century by the Muslims, and it became the capital of one of the most important districts in the Kingdom of Catalonia until it fell to Barcelona at the end of the 9th century.
The Middle Ages brought wealth to the city as is evident by the beautiful Romanesque and Gothic buildings which still stand today. From the pedestrian bridges which cross the city’s Onyar River you can view the colorful houses along the river bank, as well as the cathedral tower and the spire of the San Feliu church. The Eiffel Bridge, also known as the Pont de les Peixateries Velles, is one of the most famous Girona bridges traversing the Onyar.
A walk on Girona’s medieval walls, called the Passeig de la Muralla, is a must! The walls run along the eastern part of Girona’s old town, and the city views from the top of walls- as well as the towers - are spectacular.
The Girona Cathedral, which is situated on top of a hill and dominates the city’s skyline, is another of the city’s highlights. A long, narrow staircase leads to the entrance of the cathedral where you’ll also find magnificent views. If you’ve watched the Games of Thrones, you may recognize the cathedral – part of Season 6 was filmed here!
Girona’s Jewish Quarter was home to the city’s vibrant Jewish community from 982 until 1492 when the edict of expulsion was issued. It was known as El Call, and it is a maze of well-preserved, winding cobbled alleys. The Museum of Jewish History in the quarter relates the history of the Jewish community and highlights it contributions to the country’s cultural and scientific development.
Other Girona highlights include the Museu D’Art, Girona’s art museum, which presents a comprehensive collection of art from the Romanesque period through contemporary times and the Colegiata de San Felipe church. The church is located outside the city walls and is said to have been built on the tombs of the city's patrons, Saint Narcissus, Bishop of Girona, and Saint Felix. Next to them are the Arab baths, Banyes Arabes, which are designed as hamams, inspired by ancient Roman baths.
Enough history? Explore Girona’s streets beyond the tourist areas and stop to browse at the charming shops, enjoy a cup of local espresso, and take in the unique atmosphere!
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Looking for some interesting things to do in Girona? Here are some recommended attractions and sights for you.
outdoor activities
art & culture
Attractions in Girona
- Girona Art Museum
- Old Town, Girona
- Girona Cathedral
- Arab Baths, Girona
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