Girona
Girona, located in Catalonia, northern Spain, is a city with a rich history that dates back over 2,000 years. Known for its stunning medieval architecture, ancient city walls, and vibrant cultural scene, Girona is a hidden gem that offers visitors an authentic Spanish experience away from the bustling crowds. Whether you’re wandering through its historic old town, crossing its colorful bridges, or exploring its Jewish heritage, Girona is a city that captivates with its beauty and timeless charm.
Girona’s strategic location has made it a focal point of history, with the city witnessing 25 sieges throughout its existence. Originally founded by the Romans in the 1st century BC as Gerunda, the city quickly became an important settlement along the Via Augusta, the ancient Roman road that connected Rome to Hispania. Girona’s well-preserved city walls still stand today, providing visitors with a fascinating glimpse into the city’s Roman past.
During the Middle Ages, Girona flourished under Visigothic and Moorish rule before being reconquered by the Christians in the 8th century. The city’s Jewish Quarter, known as the Call, became one of the most important Jewish communities in medieval Spain. Girona’s blend of Roman, Moorish, Jewish, and Christian influences is reflected in its architecture and culture, making it a truly unique destination.
Today, Girona is a modern city that embraces its historical roots while offering a lively cultural scene, world-class cuisine, and beautiful surroundings. Whether you’re drawn by its history or looking for a quiet escape, Girona has something to offer every traveler.
Top 5 Unique Characteristics of Girona
1. The Cathedral of Girona (Catedral de Girona)
The Cathedral of Girona is one of the city’s most striking landmarks, dominating the skyline with its monumental Gothic nave—the widest Gothic nave in the world. Built between the 11th and 18th centuries, the cathedral features a mix of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque styles. Visitors can climb the 90 steps leading to the cathedral’s entrance and admire its beautiful façade and stunning interior, which houses an impressive tapestry of the Creation from the 11th century.
2. The Jewish Quarter (El Call)
Girona’s Jewish Quarter is one of the best-preserved in Europe and offers a fascinating look into the city’s medieval past. The narrow, winding streets of El Call are filled with history, and visitors can explore the Jewish Museum, which chronicles the life of Girona’s Jewish community before their expulsion in 1492. Walking through the atmospheric streets of the Jewish Quarter is like stepping back in time, with its stone buildings and hidden courtyards offering a sense of the city’s historical depth.
3. The Onyar River and Colorful Houses
Girona is famous for its colorful houses that line the Onyar River, creating one of the most iconic views of the city. These brightly painted facades, known as the Cases de l’Onyar, offer a picture-perfect backdrop as you cross one of the city’s many bridges, including the Eiffel Bridge, designed by Gustave Eiffel in 1877 before he constructed the Eiffel Tower in Paris. The vibrant colors of the houses reflect beautifully in the river, creating a serene and photogenic scene.
4. The City Walls (Passeig de la Muralla)
The Passeig de la Muralla is Girona’s ancient city wall that dates back to the Roman and medieval periods. Visitors can walk along the top of the walls, which stretch around much of the old city, offering stunning panoramic views of Girona’s skyline, the surrounding mountains, and the countryside. The wall is punctuated by towers and gates, making it one of the best places to experience the city’s long and fascinating history while enjoying breathtaking views.
5. Game of Thrones Filming Locations
Girona’s medieval charm has made it a popular filming location, most notably for Game of Thrones. Fans of the show will recognize Girona as the setting for the City of Braavos and parts of King’s Landing. Several scenes from Season 6 were filmed in the Jewish Quarter, the cathedral, and the Arab Baths, adding another layer of allure to the city. For fans of the series, a stroll through Girona is like walking through the world of Westeros.
Girona Today: A Cultural Hub
Girona is not only a city of historical importance but also a cultural hub. The city hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Temps de Flors flower festival in May, which transforms the streets, courtyards, and monuments into a celebration of color and creativity. Girona’s gastronomy is another major attraction, with the city being home to El Celler de Can Roca, one of the world’s top-rated restaurants.
The city’s combination of historical significance and modern vibrancy makes it a perfect destination for travelers looking to experience the best of Spain’s past and present.
Fun Facts About Girona
Girona’s Game of Thrones connection has boosted its popularity, attracting fans from around the world to explore its filming locations.
Girona has been besieged 25 times throughout its history but has remained a resilient city with well-preserved medieval architecture.
The Eiffel Bridge was designed by Gustave Eiffel, the same engineer behind the famous Eiffel Tower in Paris.
Girona’s cathedral is home to the Tapestry of Creation, one of the most important Romanesque textiles in Europe.
Girona is part of the Costa Brava, and within a short drive, visitors can enjoy some of Spain’s most beautiful beaches.
With its blend of history, culture, and charm, Girona is a city that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re drawn by its medieval past, colorful streets, or vibrant festivals, Girona is a destination that will leave you enchanted.