Cultural Routes

G

i Costa BravaPirineu de Girona

ENGLISH

Cultural routes

www.pirineugirona.orgwww.costabrava.org

Tel. +34 972 208 401 · Fax +34 972 221 [email protected]

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The Costa Brava stretches for about 206 km from Portbou up at the French border right downto the seaside town of Blanes. The rugged, jagged shoreline starts in the north with the Alberamountains and Cap de Creus, where the Pyrenees crash down to the sea, and ends with long,sandy beaches in the south.The coastline winds in and out around a series of small coves flanked by sharp cliffs with pinetrees clinging onto the edges, over a rough landscape that lives up to the name of Costa Brava,with Cadaqués, Begur, Calella de Palafrugell, Tamariu, Llafranc and Tossa de Mar among themost emblematic of the coves. On the other hand, there are also long sandy beaches at Rosesbay, Pals, Palamós, Platja d'Aro, Lloret de Mar and Blanes.

On the way down the coast there are some protected zones of special environmental interest:Cap de Creus Natural Park, the only sea-and-land park in Catalonia; the marshes of the Aiguamollsde l'Empordà Natural Park, second most important wetland area in Catalonia; Montgrí, MedesIslands and Baix Ter Natural Park, where the exceptional seabed is a major scuba-divingattraction; Ses Negres Marine Reserve just offshore from Begur.

Man has had close links with this stretch of coast since earliest times, as witnessed by thenumerous megalithic remains, Iberian settlements, the Greco-Roman city of Empúries (wherethe Greeks arrived in the 6th century B.C. and from where the Romans began their conquestof the Iberian Peninsula in the 2nd century A.D.), the large Romanesque art heritage and themany medieval towns and villages in the area.Over the years, local people have worked their lands and gone out to sea, creating an art outof the fishing trade. Roses, Palamós, Llançà, El Port de la Selva and Blanes are major fishingports and the late afternoon arrival of the trawlers is still a daily event that should not be missed.The combination of land and sea produce has created the unique “sea-and-mountain” gastronomy,making the Costa Brava a first-rate destination for lovers of good food, with many gastronomicfestivals held throughout the year, well-known chefs such as Ferran Adrià and the Roca brothers,and the 18 Michelin stars held by the most prestigious restaurants in the area.

Travelling inland through gentler countryside, we reach the area surrounding the city of Girona,undisputed cultural reference with a rich historic and artistic heritage. Further east is Pla del’Estany county, comprising the area around Banyoles lake, largest in Catalonia and a majorsports centre. The town was a secondary venue for the 1992 Olympic Games and hosted the2004 World Rowing Championships.

The Costa Brava has a wide range of attractions to offer visitors: charming little villages andmajor tourist resorts; widespread cultural manifestations and multiple options for art lovers;activities to suit all tastes, from water sports to a game of golf on some of Europe's mostrenowned courses, from parachute jumping to scuba-diving in pristine clear waters, from relaxingin health and wellness centres to going out and enjoying the local nightlife.

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As we travel inland, the landscape becomes graduallytransformed. Leaving behind the Albera and other coastalmountain ranges, we soon come to the imposing presence ofthe Girona Pyrenees. In the Natural Park of the GarrotxaVolcanic Area, we are pleasantly surprised by the greennessof the forests and the charming villages of Santa Pau, Oix,Beget, Besalú, Els Hostalets d'en Bas and Beuda.Continuing on up into the mountains, we reach the greatvalleys of Ribes, Camprodon, Núria and Cerdanya with townslike Vallfogona de Ripollès, Camprodon, Setcases, Pardines,Queralbs, Planoles, Llívia and Meranges where traditions andthe natural heritage are still conserved. There are alpine skiresorts at La Molina, Masella, Vall de Núria and Vallter 2000,and a cross-country ski centre at Guils-Fontanera. On theother hand, Ripoll, Olot and Puigcerdà are large market towns,county capitals offering the visitor many opportunities forshopping and leisure.Mountain sports lovers will also find a wide range of activitiesavailable throughout the year.

As we travel through the stunning landscapes of the Pirineude Girona, we also hear voices from the past, especially whenstopping to look at the Romanesque art of the region. Themonasteries at Ripoll and Sant Joan de les Abadesses, alongwith Sant Pere de Rodes near the coast, are superb examplesof the Romanesque style and reflect some of the most brilliantmoments in the history of Catalonia.

PIRINEUde Girona

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ALT EMPORDÀ

GIRONÈS

BAIXEMPORDÀ

SELVA

GARROTXA

CERDANYA

RIPOLLÈS

PLA DE L’ESTANY

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Costa BravaG

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A major Romanesque heritage

The Jewish world

In the Middle Ages, the territory now known as Catalonia wasdivided into earldoms, with Empúries, Besalú, Torroella andPeralada attaining a certain degree of importance. The feudallords wielded great power over the land and entered intopowerful alliances with the Church and, for this reason, promotedthe establishment of the religious orders and monasteries whichproliferate all over Catalonia. Many of these constructions wereRomanesque, which explains the astonishing development ofthe style all over the territory, especially in the Pyrenees, wheregreat monasteries, churches and little hermitages were thusbuilt, with Lombard Romanesque a main feature.The extraordinary Romanesque heritage went hand in handwith historical events. In 12th-century Ripoll, Count Guifré elPelós ordered the construction of Santa Maria monastery,whose splendid stone-sculpted portal is considered to be amasterpiece of European Romanesque. Thought to be the firstking of the Catalan dynasty, Count Guifré had a decisive influence

One of the most crucial periods in the history of medievalGirona, cradle of cultures, coincided with the time of maximumsplendour of the Jewish community that lived in the city betweenthe 9th and the 15th centuries.The arrival of the first Jews to Catalonia could be linked to theDiaspora following the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalemin the year 70 A.D. but little is really known about the origins.However, Jewish presence in Girona is documented from the9th century, whereas no similar evidence exists for other citiesin Catalonia until the 12th or 13th centuries.There was thus a Jewish community living in Girona for oversix hundred years, during which they played an important rolein the social and economic development of the city, with agolden age situated between the 12th and the first half of the14th century. Some Jews were well-to-do, with access to businessand state finances, and often lent advice to the monarchs, inreturn for special protected status.At that time, the cabbalist movement was developing inLanguedoc and Provence under the auspices of a religiouscircle of intellectuals led by Isaac de Narbonne. The Cabbala isan ancient esoteric, mystical philosophy originating on MountSinai which purports to understand and analyse the world thatlies beyond our rational knowledge. Disciples of the Narbonnescholar brought the movement to Girona where it flourisheddue to great philosophical figures such as Ezra and Azriel.

Whether exploring the Costa Brava or the Pirineu deGirona, we cannot go very far without coming acrossevidence of the long history of the area.The sunny Mediterranean climate, the geographic situationand the richness of land, rivers and sea have combinedto create a territory that has been inhabited since earliesttimes and coveted by each of the different peoples thatpassed through the Iberian Peninsula, as witnessed bythe many traces left by our ancestors over the centuries.The earliest of these remains are found at the prehistoriccaves in Serinyà near Banyoles, and at the megalithicmonuments in the Albera, Rodes and Gavarres mountainranges.

Remains of the old Iberian civilisation, which lent its nameto the peninsula now occupied by Spain and Portugal,can still be seen in numerous settlements strategicallylocated on hilltops, such as Puig Castellet (Lloret de Mar),Castell (Palamós) and Ullastret among others, affordinga unique opportunity to learn about the organisation ofthese early societies.

The ancient Greeks crossed the Mediterranean Sea andsettled in a place called Empúries, the beauty of which isstill a source of wonder. The first Greek colony on thePeninsula was founded here and it was to the same portthat the Olympic flame arrived in Catalonia for the 1992Barcelona Games. The Greeks bequeathed us their culture,and the Romans wisely followed in their footsteps. TheRomans also traced the original Via Augustacommunications route that crosses our territory fromnorth to south along today's AP-7 motorway. Romanremains can be found at the Capsacosta causeway in thePyrenees, the Ametllers villa at Tossa de Mar and the hotbaths at Caldes de Malavella.

HISTORY

MEDIEVALGIRONA

Costa Brava Pirineu de Girona

County Information Offices

Alp:Av. Tossa d’Alp, 6Tel. and Fax +34 972 890 385www.alpturisme.catE-mail: [email protected]

Besalú:Pl. Llibertat, 1Tel. +34 972 591 240 · Fax +34 972 591 150www.besalu.cat · E-mail: [email protected]

Camprodon:Pl. d’Espanya, 1Tel. +34 972 740 010 · Fax +34 972 130 324www.camprodon.catE-mail: [email protected]

La Vall d’en Bas (els Hostalets d’en Bas):C/ Teixeda, 12Tel. +34 972 692 177 · Fax +34 972 690 326www.vallbas.catE-mail: [email protected]

La Vall de Camprodon (Camprodon):Ctra. C-38, km 9,6Tel. +34 972 740 936 · Fax +34 972 130 359www.valldecamprodon.orgE-mail: [email protected]

La Vall de NúriaVall de Núria Mountain ResortTel. +34 972 732 020www.valldenuria.catE-mail: [email protected]

La Vall de Ribes (Ribes de Freser)Pl. de l’Ajuntament, 3, baixosTel. +34 972 727 728www.vallderibes.cat · E-mail: [email protected]

Les Planes d'Hostoles:Pg. de l'Estació, 2Tel. +34 972 448 026 · Fax +34 972 448 593www.lesplanes.cat · E-mail: [email protected]

Les Preses:Antiga Estació, s/nTel. +34 972 692 023 · Fax +34 972 692 020www.lespreses.cat · E-mail: [email protected]

Llívia:C/ dels Forns, 10 · Tel. and fax +34 972 896 313www.llivia.org · E-mail: [email protected]

Olot:C/ de l’Hospici, 8Tel. +34 972 260 141 · Fax +34 972 271 900www.turismeolot.cat · E-mail: [email protected]

Centre d’informació Casal dels VolcansAv. Santa Coloma, s/nTel. +34 972 268 112 · Fax +34 972 270 455www.gencat.cat/parcs/garrotxaE-mail: [email protected]

Puigcerdà:C/ Querol, 1Tel. +34 972 880 542 · Fax +34 972 141 522www.puigcerda.cat · E-mail: [email protected]

Ripoll:Pl. Abat Oliba, s/nTel. and fax +34 972 702 351www.ripoll.cat/turismeE-mail: [email protected]

Sant Feliu de Pallerols:Ctra. d’Olot, 43 (Antiga Estació)Tel. +34 972 444 474 · Fax +34 972 444 422www.santfeliudepallerols.catE-mail: [email protected]

Sant Joan de les Abadesses:Pl. de l’Abadia, 9Tel. +34 972 720 599 · Fax +34 972 720 650www.santjoandelesabadesses.catE-mail: [email protected]

Sant Joan les Fonts:C/ Juvinyà, s/nTel. +34 972 290 507· Fax +34 972 291 289www.santjoanlesfonts.catE-mail: [email protected]

Santa Pau:Can Vayreda, Pl. Major, 1Tel. and fax +34 972 680 349www.santapau.comE-mail: [email protected]

Setcases:C/ del Rec, 5Tel. +34 972 136 089 · Fax +34 972 136 037www.setcases.catE-mail: [email protected]

Vallter 2000Pla de Morens, s/nTel. +34 972 139 057www.vallter2000.comE-mail: [email protected]

Vallfogona de Ripollès:C/ Puig Estela, 9Tel. +34 972 701 909 · Fax +34 972 700 512www.ddgi.es/vallfogona · E-mail: [email protected]

Centre de visitants del Gironès:Av. de França, 221 · 17840 Sarrià de TerTel. +34 972 011 669www.turismegirones.catE-mail: [email protected]

Alt Empordà County Council:C/ Nou, 48 · 17600 FigueresTel. +34 972 514 431 · Fax. +34 972 505 681www.empordaturisme.comE-mail: [email protected]

La Selva County Council:Pg. de Sant Salvador, 25-2717430 Santa Coloma de FarnersTel. +34 972 841 702 · Fax +34 972 840 804www.selvaturisme.catE-mail: [email protected]

Baix Empordà County Council:C/ dels Tarongers, 12 ·17100 La Bisbal d’EmpordàTel. +34 972 642 310www.visitemporda.comE-mail: [email protected]

Pla de l’Estany County Council:C/ Catalunya, 48 · 17820 BanyolesTel. +34 972 573 550 - Fax +34 972 575 012www.plaestany.cat/turismeE-mail: [email protected]

Ripollès Desenvolupament:Polígono Industrial dels PintorsC/ Joan Miró, 2-4 · 17500 RipollTel. +34 972 704 499 · Fax +34 972 704 530www.elripolles.comE-mail: [email protected]

Cerdanya County Tourism Board:N-152 and N-260 Intersection17520 PuigcerdàTel. +34 972 140 665 · Fax +34 972 140 592www.cerdanya.orgE-mail: [email protected]

Turisme Garrotxa:Av. Onze de Setembre, 22, 2a planta17800 OlotTel. +34 972 271 600 · Fax +34 972 271 666www.turismegarrotxa.comE-mail: [email protected]

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Another adept of the Cabbala and other sciences was the great Gironamaster Moses ben Nahman or Nahmanides, also known by the Catalanname Bonastruc ça Porta.

The building containing the last Jewish synagogue in Girona nowbears the name Bonastruc ça Porta in honour of his memory.

The Jewish community initially lived beside the Cathedral in the highpart of the city, but by 1160 there is evidence of a Jewish quarter orCall (a Catalan word deriving from the Latin callis meaning “street”).However, it was not until conflicts between Christians and Jews startedin the second half of the 15th century that the quarter actually becamea ghetto. A municipal decree in 1448 gave the Jews six days to moveout of their normal place of residence and into the Call.

Previously, the Jews had been attacked on several occasions, withthe most bloodthirsty riots taking place on Saint Laurence's night in1391. Under pretence of protection, the city authorities locked theJews up in Gironella Tower on that occasion for 17 weeks, duringwhich period their houses were looted.The conflicts continued and the Call gradually diminished until itfinally disappeared when the Jews were expelled from Spain in 1492.

The labyrinthine structure of the narrow streets and the abundanceof stone construction helped the quarter to withstand the ravages of

on the shaping of so-called Old Catalonia, and thus on the history ofCatalonia.

Guifré el Pelós also founded the monastery of Sant Joan de lesAbadesses near Ripoll, where we can admire the Sacred Mystery groupof sculptures composed of seven life-sized figures, considered a uniqueexample of Romanesque sculpture of the age.

There is still a third 12th-century monastery in the area, that of SantPere de Camprodon which, although not as important as the others,features a bell tower with an interesting octagonal base and a curiouslywide nave.

Leaving Ripollès for Alt Empordà county, we find other majormonasteries, of which the most outstanding is undoubtedly the 10th-century Sant Pere de Rodes, spectacularly situated overlooking Capde Creus with a splendid view of the sea below.

The great monasteries spearheaded the construction of other churchesand hermitages, especially along the pilgrims' road to Santiago deCompostela. Ripollès county alone boasts a total of 98 Romanesquemonuments, one of the major clusters of the style in the whole ofEurope.

In Girona city, Romanesque art also left a valuable heritage, as canstill be seen in the bell tower of the original cathedral, subsequentlyused as a buttress for the later Gothic building. In the CathedralMuseum we find the most important Romanesque textile in existence:the Creation Tapestry, embroidered in an intricate iconographic patternreflecting influences from many sources, a treasure in itself that iswell worth a trip to see.

Romanesque art is also found on the coast, at the old monastery ofSant Feliu de Guíxols, and slightly inland, as for example at themonasteries of Breda and Banyoles.

time. The Call became just another district inhabited by Christian orconvert families and life went on until the present day. Few majorchanges were made over the centuries, with the result that today'sCall is one of the best conserved Jewish quarters in Western Europe.

For this reason, Girona belongs to the Spanish Network of JewishCities, a non-profit-making public association set up to protect thearchitectural, historic, artistic and cultural aspects of the Jewishheritage in Spain.Today's network comprises the towns and cities of Ávila, Barcelona,Besalú, Cáceres, Calahorra, Castelló d’Empúries, Córdoba, Estella,Girona, Hervás, Jaén, León, Lucena, Monforte de Lemos, Oviedo,Palma de Mallorca, Plasencia, Ribadavia, Segovia, Seville, Tarazona,Toledo, Tortosa and Tudela.

A trip to Besalú, one of the best conserved medieval historic-artisticsites in Catalonia, is an ideal way to complement the Call in Girona.The famous mikvah or Jewish ritual purification bathhouse, uniquein Europe, dates from the 12th century and is the main attraction ofthe Jewish heritage in Besalú.

At Castelló d'Empúries there is another medieval Jewish quarterwhich once held one of the highest populations in the whole Gironaarea, and where the structure of the “New Synagogue” can still beobserved.

TOURISTINFORMATIONOFFICES

Arbúcies:C/ Major, 6Tel. +34 972 162 477 · Fax +34 972 860 983www.arbucies.cat/turismeE-mail: [email protected]

Banyoles:Pg. Darder – Pesquera, 10Tel. +34 972 583 470 · Fax. +34 972 574 917www.banyoles.cat/turismeE-mail: [email protected]

Begur:Av. Onze de Setembre, 5Tel. +34 972 624 520 · Fax +34 972 624 578www.visitbegur.comE-mail: [email protected]

Blanes:Pg. de Catalunya, 2Tel. +34 972 330 348 · Fax +34 972 334 686www.visitblanes.netE-mail: [email protected]

Pl. Catalunya, s/nTel. +34 972 330 348www.visitblanes.netE-mail: [email protected]

Breda:C/ Santa Victòria, 1Tel. +34 972 871 530www.breda.catE-mail: [email protected]

Cadaqués:C/ des Cotxe, 2ATel. +34 972 258 315www.visitcadaques.orgE-mail: [email protected]

Caldes de Malavella:C/ Vall-llobera, s/nTel. +34 972 480 103www.caldesdemalavella.cat/turismeE-mail: [email protected]

Calella de Palafrugell:C/ de les Voltes, 4Tel. +34 972 614 475www.visitpalafrugell.catE-mail: [email protected]

Calonge:Pl. Major, s/nTel. +34 972 609 445ww.calonge-santantoni.comE-mail: [email protected]

Castelló d’Empúries:Pl. Jaume I, s/nTel. +34 972 156 233www.castello.catE-mail: [email protected]

Colera:C/ Labrun, 34Tel. +34 972 389 050 · Fax +34 972 389 283www.colera.catE-mail: [email protected]

El Port de la Selva:C/ Illa, 13Tel. +34 972 387 122 · Fax +34 972 387 413www.elportdelaselva.catE-mail: [email protected]

EmpuriabravaPompeu Fabra, s/n (Centre Cívic)Tel. +34 972 450 802 · Fax +34 972 450 600www.empuriabrava.catE-mail: [email protected]

Figueres:Pl. del Sol, s/nTel. +34 972 503 155 · Fax +34 972 673 166www.figueres.catE-mail: [email protected]

Girona:Av.Joan Maragall, 1Tel. +34 872 975 975www.gencat.cat/generalitatgironaE-mail: [email protected]

Punt de BenvingudaC/ Berenguer Carnicer, 3-5Tel. +34 972 21 1 678 · Fax +34 972 221 135www.puntdebenvinguda.comE-mail: [email protected]

Rambla de la Llibertat, 1Tel. +34 972 226 575www.girona.cat/turismeE-mail: [email protected]

Hostalric:C/ Raval, 45Tel. +34 972 864 565 · Fax +34 902 196 446www.hostalric.cat · E-mail: [email protected]

L’Escala:Pl. de les Escoles, 1Tel. +34 972 770 603 · Fax +34 972 773 385www.visitlescala.com ·E-mail: [email protected]

L’Estartit:Pg. Marítim, s/nTel. +34 972 751 910www.visitestartit.com · E-mail: [email protected]

La Bisbal d’Empordà:Edifici Torre Maria - C. de l’Aigüeta, 17Tel. +34 972 645 500www.visitlabisbal.catE-mail: [email protected]

Castell Palau - Pl. del Castell, s/nTel. +34 972 645 166www.visitlabisbal.catE-mail: [email protected]

Llafranc:Pg. de Cípsela, s/nTel. +34 972 305 008 · Fax +34 972 611 261www.visitpalafrugell.catE-mail: [email protected]

Llagostera:Pg. Romeu s/n · Estació del carriletTel. +34 972 832 322 · Fax +34 972 805 468www.llagostera.cat · E-mail: [email protected]

Llançà:C/ Camprodon, 16-18Tel. +34 972 380 855 · Fax +34 972 121 931www.llanca.cat · E-mail: [email protected]

Lloret de Mar:Av. de les Alegries, 3Tel. +34 972 365 788 · Fax +34 972 367 750www.lloretdemar.orgE-mail: [email protected]

Pg. Camprodon i Arrieta, 1-2 (Museu del Mar)Tel. +34 972 364 735 · Fax +34 972 360 540www.lloretdemar.org · E-mail: [email protected]

Maçanet de Cabrenys:Aparcament del Pont, s/nTel. +34 972 544 297 · Fax +34 972 544 108www.massanet.org · E-mail: [email protected]

Mont-ras:Pl. de l’Ajuntament, 1Tel. +34 972 301 974 · Fax +34 972 301 956www.mont-ras.cat · E-mail: [email protected]

Palafrugell:C/ Carrilet, 2Tel. +34 972 300 228 · Fax +34 972 611 261www.visitpalafrugell.catE-mail: [email protected]

Palamós:Pg. del Mar, s/nTel. +34 972 600 550www.visitpalamos.catE-mail: [email protected]

Pals:Pl. Major, 7Tel. +34 972 637 380 · Fax +34 972 637 326www.pals.cat · E-mail: [email protected]

C/ Aniceta Figueres, 6Tel. +34 972 667 857 · Fax +34 972 637 818www.pals.cat · E-mail: [email protected]

Peralada:Pl. Peixateria, 6Tel. +34 972 538 840 · Fax +34 972 538 327www.peralada.org · E-mail: [email protected]

Peratallada (Forallac):C/ Unió, 3Tel. +34 972 645 522 · Fax +34 972 645 524www.forallac.cat · E-mail: [email protected]

Platja d’Aro:C/del Mn. Cinto Verdaguer, 4Tel. +34 972 817 179 · Fax +34 972 825 657www.platjadaro.comE-mail: [email protected]

Portbou:Pg. Lluís CompanysTel. +34 972 125 161 · Fax +34 972 125 123www.portbou.catE-mail: [email protected]

Roses:Av. de Rhode, 77-79Tel. +34 972 257 331 · Fax +34 972 151 150www.roses.cat · E-mail: [email protected]

Sant Antoni de Calonge:Av. Catalunya, 26Tel. +34 972 661 714 · Fax +34 972 661 080ww.calonge-santantoni.comE-mail: [email protected]

Sant Feliu de Guíxols:Pl. Del Mar, 8 - 12Tel. +34 972 820 051 · Fax +34 972 820 119www.guixols.catE-mail: [email protected]

Sant Hilari Sacalm:Pl. del Doctor Robert, s/nTel. +34 972 869 686 · Fax +34 972 869 677www.santhilari.catE-mail: [email protected]

Sant Llorenç de la Muga:C/ Esglesia, 2Tel. and fax +34 972 569 140www.santllorençdelamuga.catE-mail: [email protected]

Sant Pere Pescador:Ctra. De la Platja , s/nTel. +34 972 520 535 · Fax +34 972 550 323www.santpere.catE-mail: [email protected]

Santa Cristina d’Aro:C/ Pl. Catalunya, 1Tel. +34 972 837 010www.santacristina.netE-mail: [email protected]

Tamariu:C/ de la Riera, s/nTel. +34 972 620 193 · Fax +34 972 611 261www.visitpalafrugell.catE-mail: [email protected]

Torroella de Montgrí:Museu de la MediterràniaCan Quintana. C/ d’Ullà, 31Tel. +34 972 755 180 · Fax +34 972 755 182www.museudelamediterrania.catE-mail: [email protected]

Tossa de Mar:Av. Pelegrí, 25, Ed. La NauTel. +34 972 340 108 · Fax +34 972 340 712www.infotossa.comE-mail: [email protected]

Verges:C/ de la Placeta, 1Tel. +34 972 780 974http://webspobles.ddgi.cat/sites/vergesE-mail: [email protected]

Vilobí d’Onyar:Girona-Costa Brava AirportTel. +34 972 942 955E-mail: [email protected]

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After the Romanesque period, other artistic expressionsalso left their mark on the region over the years, notablyGothic art which developed everywhere and especially inGirona city, where we find many examples of civil andecclesiastical architecture. Girona Cathedral boasts thewidest Gothic nave in Europe, the construction of whichgave rise to a long and curious debate between thearchitects of the time and the Cathedral authorities.Gothic art is also present in Castelló d'Empúries wherethe imposing parish church of Santa Maria is popularlyknown as “Empordà cathedral”.

Other artistic styles also came and went, but it was notuntil the late 19th and early 20th century with theModernist movement that Girona again played animportant role in architecture and the decorative arts, inthe context of a long pictorial tradition starting with theOlot School of Landscape Painting and culminating withthe surrealism of Salvador Dalí.

Contemporary art finds an expression in Parc Art at Cassàde la Selva, where nature and contemporary sculpturegraciously complement each other.

ART

• There are places along each of the routes offering many options for accommodation. Visitorswill not have problems over finding somewhere to stay, though it is a good idea in the highseason to do some planning and make reservations in the places that are most popular withtourists.

• The number of kilometres is indicated for each route, but not the time it takes: it is up to individualvisitors to plan their own routes in line with their interests and with how much time they wantto spend in any particular place, visiting a museum or walking around a town or village. Ourintention was not so much to mark out a cultural rally as to let everyone enjoy the region, itsfood, its landscapes, its shopping facilities, the activities on offer in each place, or just strollingaround... in short, adopting the Mediterranean way of making the most of one's time and enjoyinglife.

• One should also bear in mind the options provided by traditional culture at high points in theyear's calendar (Christmas, Easter, town and village festivals, medieval-style events etc.) andby the local cuisine (there are many events focusing on local produce throughout the year). Allthese resources can make visiting a place all the more attractive.

• There are lots of music festivals around the region in summer. Ending a day by going to a concertin places of notable historical or architectural interest is also highly recommendable.

• In all these matters, we particularly recommend enquiring in local and regional tourist officesas well as in Turisme de Catalunya to find out what options are on offer in each place, completewith all the cultural and leisure options available. Naturally, there are many more besides theones we suggest, and more varied ones too.

• Visitors wishing to find out more regarding the culture of the areas to be visited will also findfurther information in those tourist offices.

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Salvador Dalí (1904-1989) was a major artist of the surrealist

movement which took painting, literature, cinema and other

arts by storm during the first half of the 20th century.

Dalí's strong personality made him a key figure in contemporary

culture. He is also a magnificent example of a universal genius

who remained firmly attached to his native Empordà, to the

Costa Brava landscape at Cap de Creus and to the traditions of

Catalonia.

Dalí was born in Figueres and studied in the Madrid School of

Fine Arts, where he came into contact with up-and-coming

intellectuals and personalities of the period, notably film-maker

Luis Buñuel and poet Federico García Lorca. His passion for art

led him to discover cubism, futurism, metaphysical painting,

the world of cinema and photography and to explore all the

possibilities afforded to his creativity.

After exhibiting his work in Barcelona and Madrid in 1925 and

1926 respectively, Dalí left for Paris to meet Picasso and it was

there that he encountered the surrealist movement.

Dalí later persuaded some of his Madrid and Paris friends, in

particular the poet Paul Eluard and his wife Gala, to spend the

summer with him in solitary, out-of-the-way Cadaqués, the

birthplace of his father.

From that moment on, Dalí and Gala entered into a curious

symbiotic partnership to which they both remained faithful

until their death.

Later on, by this stage at odds with the surrealist movement,

Dalí went to the United States in 1940 where he continued to

develop his creative genius, achieving considerable success

and influence in the world of fashion and publicity as well as

in costume and set design for the ballet.

At the height of his fame but always mindful of his roots, Dalí

bought up a row of fishermen's houses at Portlligat cove near

Cadaqués, and transformed them into a residence and workshop,

thereby providing himself with the means to alternate periods

on the Costa Brava with interludes in the world art centres of

Paris and New York.

Towards the end of his life, he decided to return for good to his

native Empordà and presented Gala with a castle, thus fulfilling

a one-time promise to make her “queen of the castle”. This was

Púbol Castle, situated near La Pera village not far from La

Bisbal d'Empordà, where Gala set up residence and, according

to local legend, only allowed Dalí access on receipt of her written

permission.

In 1974, one of Dalí's dreams came true with the opening of the

Dalí Theatre-Museum in Figueres where a wide range of works

from all his various artistic periods is on show to the public.

The museum was personally conceived and designed by the

painter and is in itself another work of art. Today it is one of

the most popular museums in Spain and essential for

understanding the evolution of 20th-century art.

After the deaths, first of Gala and then of Dalí, the Gala-Salvador

Dalí Foundation was set up to manage the three emblematic

spaces of the artist's life: the Dalí Theatre-Museum in Figueres,

the Gala Dalí Castle House-Museum in Púbol and the Salvador

Dalí House-Museum in Portlligat, thereby constituting the so-

called Dalí Triangle that enables visitors to discover the human

and artistic personality of the painter while enjoying the

surroundings of his native land.

This is indeed the best way to understand why the Costa Brava

landscapes were a permanent source of inspiration for Dalí,

whose attachment to his native Empordà and its traditions

enshrined it forever in universal artistic imagery.

GENERAL Recommendations

The twelve cultural-interest routes we suggest in this guide are to be taken as just a starting pointfor exploring the vast cultural legacy of the various counties of Girona, but not as a comprehensivecompendium to the area's resources. Accordingly, these points should be borne in mind:

• These routes are for car-drivers. There is the odd stretch on forest tracks, though of the kindthat can be used by ordinary saloon cars without difficulty. Even so, other options are alwaysgiven so that you can stay on proper roads if you so wish.For you to make the most of the routes and the areas they go through, parallel or supplementaryoptions are often given for cycling and hiking routes.

• Generally speaking, the road network in Girona is very good and should pose no problems, eventhough some routes involve all kinds of roads, including a few local ones.Some roads up in the Pyrenees may have ice or snow in winter, and visitors should be ready forthat.

• The guide gives directions in sufficient detail for completing the route without difficulty, buteven so it must be remembered that this guide is not a road book. You are recommended totake an up-to-date road map with you.

• The routes were designed on a theme basis, but one should nonetheless be aware that the placesalong the way are often of interest from many different points of view. That is why the informationon the route is supplemented at the end by guidance on other routes, ones that can be regardedas associated with the one marked out.

• Some of the routes are very long. The idea is to mark out a primary core route so that theoptions and the region can be explored over the course of several days.

• The routes were arranged by highlighting the chief sights and places along the way so thateveryone can make adjustments in line with their interests: doing the routes from start to finish,or selecting just a few stretches, or starting the route from whichever point along it happensto be nearest, or taking the initiative oneself on the basis of one's own interests and priorities,or combining the routes with other activities, and so on.

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8 37

Pirineu de GironaG

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Sculpture parks

Sant Quirze de Colera

The route starts in Puigcerdà, the capital of Cerdanya county and maincultural, trade and leisure centre of the area, a charming town whichis well worth a visit. Places of interest include the bell tower of thechurch of Santa Maria, the former convent of Sant Domènec, PlaçaCabrinetty, and some of the houses in the park and around the lake.This is also the starting point for Route 6, the Cerdanya stretchof the Road to Santiago that leads towards La Seu d'Urgell andpasses one Romanesque sanctuary and several Romanesquechurches along the way.However, this route starts in Puigcerdà and leads in the oppositedirection, towards Ripoll.

At Puigcerdà take the GIV-4035 until you get to Guils de Cerdanya where there is the12th-century church of Sant Esteve, with its magnificent portal and large wall belfrywith three openings.Go back to Puigcerdà and take the N-152 down towards Alp. In the town centre thereis the church of Sant Pere, of huge dimensions, with a central nave flanked by twoaisles, and a square bell tower. The church, however, has been considerably transformed.Go back to the N-152 onto the Toses pass, a typical mountain road where tyre chainsare often needed for winter motoring.

On the last stretch of this road we come to the large municipalityof Toses, comprising Fornells, Dòrria, Nevà and Toses villages,and the municipality of Planoles, with nearby Planès hamlet.These villages have great character and are a starting point forhiking trips and excursions around this beautiful landscape, whichis well worth a visit.Each village boasts its own Romanesque church: Sant Martí deFornells, Sant Víctor de Dòrria with its Romanesque paintings,Sant Cristòfol de Nevà, Sant Cristòfol de Toses also withRomanesque paintings, Sant Marcel de Planès and Sant Vicençde Planoles.These rural churches, often situated in isolated areas, are usually

The GREATROMANESQUE ROUTEFactsheet

CULTURAL HERITAGERomanesque art grew up around the greatmonasteries between the 10th and the 13th centuriesand spread all over the Catalan Pyrenees and thePre-Pyrenees. Today there is a rich Romanesquecultural heritage centred mainly on hermitages,churches and monasteries.

ROUTE CHARACTERISTICSTransverse route over the whole province, withdifferent stretches and alternative routes.

ROUTESMain route: 320 km approximately (depending onthe towns and villages visited on the way)Secondary route I: 135 kmSecondary route II: 85 km

STARTING POINTGiven the overall length and the different stretchesof the route, the starting point can be at any maincity: Puigcerdà, Ripoll, Girona or Figueres.

Introductionto the route

Throughout the Middle Ages, Romanesque art enjoyed an age ofsplendour all over the Catalan Pyrenees. Romanesque is anaustere form of art with Lombard and Byzantine influences, andperfectly in keeping with its natural surroundings. There are notonly a multitude of small rural churches scattered all over theGirona area, but also many large Romanesque monasteries thatplayed a vital role in the history of Catalonia. Among othermonasteries, Santa Maria de Ripoll, Sant Joan de les Abadessesand Sant Pere de Rodes make up an exceptional trilogy aroundwhich grew up towns of great historical importance.

TOSES2Puigcerdà

Toses

Ripoll

Sant Joan de les Abadesses

Camprodon

Molló and Beget

Alta Garrotxa

Peralada

Vilabertran

Figueres

Sant Pere de Rodes

Routedescription

PUIGCERDÀ1

Girona

Besalú

FESTIVALS DECLAREDOF NATIONAL INTEREST

Holy ThursdayGood FridayEaster MondayPentecost Saturday, Sunday and MondaySunday before Corpus Christi8 SeptemberDecember

DATEDance of DeathLiving Way of the CrossPlantada de l'Arbre del Maig and Ball del CornutHobby Horse danceFloral carpet festivalVirgin of TuraNativity plays and tableaux

ACTIVITYVergesSant Hilari SacalmCornellà del TerriSant Feliu de PallerolsArbúciesOlotGeneral

TOWN

SilsSalvador Claret Automobile CollectionCtra. N-II, km 698 · Tel. +34 972 853 036 · Fax +34 972 853 [email protected] · www.museuautomobilsclaret.com

Torroella de MontgríCan Quintana-Museum of the MediterraneanC/ d'Ullà, 27-31 · Tel. +34 972 755 180 · Fax +34 972 755 [email protected] · www.museudelamediterrania.catPalau Solterra Painting GalleryC/ de l'Església, 10 · Tel. +34 972 761 976 · Fax +34 972 760 [email protected] · www.fundacionvilacasas.cat

Tossa de MarMediterranean Lighthouse Interpretative CentrePl. del Far, s/n · Tel. +34 972 343 359www.tossademar.cat/esfardetossaCan Ganga Ethnography MuseumC/ del Codolar, 4 · Tel. +34 972 343 359www.tossademar.cat/cangangaTossa Municipal Museum (works by Chagall)Pl. de Roig i Soler, 1 (Vila Vella) · Tel. +34 972 340 709 · Fax +34 972 341 [email protected] · www.tossademar.cat/museu

UllastretArchaeology Museum of Catalonia - UllastretPuig de Sant Andreu, s/n · Tel. +34 972 179 058 [email protected] · www.mac.es

Santa Coloma de FarnersTrias Biscuit MuseumCtra. de Sils, 36 · Tel. +34 972 841 213 · Fax +34 972 842 [email protected] · www.triasbiscuits.com

Sant Hilari SacalmGuilleries MuseumPl. del Doctor Robert, s/n (edifici La Cooperativa) · Tel. +34 972 869 [email protected] · www.santhilari.cat

Santa Cristina d'Aro“House of Magic” Magic Museum - Xevi CollectionAv. de l'Església, 1 · Tel. +34 972 837 209 · Fax +34 972 837 [email protected] · www.xevi-ilusionista.com

DasDas Museum CollectionPg. de Rossend Arús, 3 - Ajuntament · Tel. +34 972 890 220 · Fax +34 972 890 [email protected] · www.ddgi.es/das

GombrènCount Arnau MuseumC/ del Carbasser, 3 · Tel. +34 972 730 300 · Fax +34 972 712 [email protected] · www.gombren.cat

LlíviaMunicipal MuseumC/ dels Forns, 10 · Tel. +34 972 896 [email protected] · www.llivia.com

MerangesClog MuseumPl. Major, 3 · Tel. +34 972 880 054 · Fax +34 972 880 054 ·[email protected]


Sant Joan de les Abadesses Monastery MuseumPl. de l'Abadia · Tel. +34 972 722 [email protected] · www.santjoandelesabadesses.com

TosesShepherd's MuseumCal Pastor - C/ del Camí del Pelós, 2 · Tel. +34 972 736 [email protected] · www.toses.cat

OlotCan Trincheria Manor House MuseumC/ de Sant Esteve, 29 · Tel. +34 972 271 [email protected] · www.olot.cat/culturaGarrotxa County MuseumC/ de l'Hospici, 8 · Tel. +34 972 271 166 · Fax +34 972 273 [email protected] · www.olot.cat/culturaMuseum of SaintsC/ de Joaquim Vayreda, 9 · Tel. +34 972 266 [email protected] · www.museusants.catVolcano MuseumCtra. de Santa Coloma, 43 · Tel. +34 972 266 762 · Fax +34 972 270 [email protected] · www.olot.cat/culturaOlot Parish MuseumCasa Rectoral · Tel. +34 972 260 474

RipollPalau ForgePg. de la Farga Catalana, 14-16 · Tel. +34 972 714 142 · Fax +34 972 702 [email protected] · www.ajripoll.comRipoll Ethnography MuseumPl. de l'Abat Oliba, s/n · Tel. +34 972 703 [email protected] · www.museuderipoll.org

Cassà de la SelvaParc Art (Contemporary Art Collection)Veïnat de Matamala · Tel. +34 972 463 [email protected] · www.parcart.net

PorqueresCan Ginebreda WoodCtra. de Mieres, km 25 · Tel. +34 972 582 [email protected] · www.canginebreda.com

Calella de PalafrugellCap Roig GardensParatge de Cap Roig, s/n · Tel. +34 972 614 [email protected] · www.obrasocial.lacaixa.es

9

closed to the public and visitors must ask for the key. It is advisableto seek information in the Tourist Office or in the local Town Hallif you wish to see the interior of the churches.We are now in Ribes Valley, where Romanesque churches arealso to be found in Campelles, Queralbs, Pardines and Fustanyàvillages. Our main route, however, brings us on towards Ripoll.

Follow the N-152 until Ribes de Freser and from there continue on until Ripoll.

Ripoll is a county capital with a rich historical heritage, closelylinked to the Benedictine monastery of Santa Maria, one of thebest examples of Catalan Romanesque art and of great importancein the history of Catalonia.In more recent times, the local ironworks developed a lightfirearm industry in the area. Nowadays Ripoll is an importanttrading and commercial centre, as well as being a starting pointfor excursions to the Pyrenean valleys. In the town itself we canfind remains of the old ramparts and of one of the former citygates and several houses of interest. Visitors will gain an insightinto the tangible and intangible heritage of local society at RipollEthnography Museum, with its outstanding collections on themesrelated to herding, farming, trades, religious beliefs and practices,the Catalan forge and the wrought iron industry, as well as thelight firearms traditionally manufactured in the area.Monastery of Santa Maria. The monastery was founded in the 9thcentury by Count Guifré el Pelós. The importance of the monasterylibrary and the Counts' pantheon made it one of the main culturalcentres of medieval Europe until the year 1162. Several noble foundersof the Catalan dynasty are buried here, including the selfsame CountGuifré el Pelós. For this reason, Ripoll was the capital of so-called OldCatalonia, true cradle of Catalan identity. The monastery portal issculpted in stone and depicts scenes from the lives of King David andKing Solomon, Moses and the prophets, and is considered one of themajor works of European Romanesque art. The two-storied cloisteris extraordinarily beautiful and is enhanced by richly ornamentedcapitals. Since construction of the monastery continued until the 16thcentury, only the north gallery is purely Romanesque. The LombardRomanesque church features noteworthy wall decoration. Thescriptorium is well worth a visit, where a permanent interactiveexhibition illustrates the lives of medieval copyists and allows visitorsto practise the arts of the scribes, such as calligraphy and illumination,and to experiment with authentic materials as used in the Middle Ages.Take the C-26 for 10 km until you reach Sant Joan de les Abadesses, followingthe course of the River Ter.

RIPOLL. MONASTERY OF SANTA MARIA3

Like Ripoll, the history of Sant Joan de les Abadesses is closelylinked to that of the monastery around which the town grew up.A stroll around the town centre is highly recommended to see arare example of medieval town planning and interesting sightssuch as the Old Bridge; the 15th- century Abbot's Palace, with itsRomanesque-style Tosca Hall; the remains of the ramparts andthe porticoed Plaça Major (Main Square) surrounded by baroquebuildings. A large market is held on the square every week.The monastery of Sant Joan (Saint John) was also founded byCount Guifré el Pelós, who placed his daughter Emma as abbessof the Benedictine community. The monastery houses the SacredMystery group of sculptures composed of seven life-sized figures,considered a unique example of the 13th-century transition periodfrom Romanesque to Gothic-style sculpture.Also worthy of note are the cloister and other Gothic-styleelements of the monastery such as the Santa Maria la Blancaand Sant Agustí altarpieces.The monastery museum displays Romanesque and sacred artworks as well as a collection of scale models of Romanesqueconstructions in the Ripollès county.

First continue along the C-26 and then take the C-38, leaving Ribes Valley behind as you enterCamprodon Valley, another place of great natural beauty and a starting point for hiking trails,excursions and winter sports. A separate Romanesque route through this valley passes Setcases,Tregurà, Vilallonga, Abella and La Roca. Our main route, however, leads on to Camprodon.

SANT JOAN DE LES ABADESSES.MONASTERY OF SANT JOAN

4

CAMPRODON5

The town of Camprodon is a major tourism centre with interestingconstructions such as the emblematic Romanesque-style New Bridge,the Gothic church of Santa Maria and the remains of the ramparts,as well as several Modernist houses and the well-known PasseigMaristany of the same style.Monastery of Sant Pere. Although not as important as the above,the monastery features a bell tower with an unusual octagonal baseand an exceptionally wide nave.

Although the main route continues along the C-38 towards Molló, it is worthwhilemaking a short detour along the GIV-5264 to Llanars to see the 12th-century churchof Sant Esteve, a magnificent example of Romanesque architecture, completelysurrounded by village houses.Go back to Camprodon and take the C-38 towards Molló. Then continue downthe same road until the GIV-5223 that will bring you to the hamlet of Beget.

This route can be combined with routes 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12.

MUSEUMS

36

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GironaArab BathsC/ de Ferran el Catòlic, s/n · Tel. +34 972 190 797 · [email protected] · www.banysarabs.catCasa MasóC/de les Ballesteries, 29 · Tel. +34 972 413 [email protected] · www.rafaelmaso.orgArchaeology Museum of Catalonia - GironaPl. de Santa Llúcia · Tel. +34 972 202 632 · Fax +34 972 210 [email protected] · www.mac.esGirona Art Museum (Md'A)Pda. de la Catedral, 12 · Tel. +34 972 203 834 · Fax +34 972 227 [email protected] · www.museuart.comMuseum of Jewish History - Bonastruc Ça PortaC/ de la Força, 8 · Tel. +34 972 216 761 · Fax +34 972 214 [email protected] · www.girona.cat/callGirona City History MuseumC/ de la Força, 27 · Tel. +34 972 222 229 · Fax +34 972 206 989

La JonqueraM.U.M.E., Exile Memorial MuseumC/ Major, 43-47 · Tel. +34 972 556 533 · Fax +34 972 556 [email protected] · www.museuexili.cat

La Bisbal d'EmpordàTerracotta MuseumC/ del Sis d'Octubre de 1869, 99 · Tel. +34 972 642 067 · Fax +34 972 646 [email protected]

[email protected] · www.girona.cat/museuciutatCinema MuseumC/ de la Séquia, 1 · Tel. +34 972 412 777 · Fax +34 972 413 [email protected] · www.museudelcinema.orgGirona Cathedral Treasury MuseumPl. de la Catedral, s/n · Tel. +34 972 427 189 · Fax +34 972 215 [email protected] · www.catedraldegirona.org

Costa Brava

Palau-satorRural MuseumC/ d’Extramurs, 1 · Tel. +34 972 634 125 · Fax +34 972 635 [email protected] · www.maspou.com

PeraladaPeralada Castle MuseumPl. del Carme, s/n · Tel. +34 972 538 [email protected] · www.museucastellperalada.com

SaltWater MuseumC/ de Sant Antoni, 1 - Edifici Factoria Cultural Coma CrosTel. +34 972 402 148 · Fax +34 972 402 148 · [email protected] · www.viladesalt.cat

Sant Feliu de GuíxolsCity History MuseumPl. del Monestir, s/n · Tel. +34 972 821 575 · Fax +34 972 821 [email protected] · www.guixols.cat/museuHistory of Toys MuseumRbla. Vidal, 48-50 · Tel. +34 972 822 249 · Fax +34 972 322 [email protected] · www.museudelajoguina.catLifeguard MuseumPda. de Guíxols, s/n (turó del Fortim) · Tel. +34 972 820 167 · Fax +34 972 821 [email protected] · www.guixols.cat

ArbúciesLa Gabella-Montseny Ethnology MuseumC/ Major, 6 · Tel. +34 972 860 908 · Fax +34 972 860 [email protected] · www.museuetnologicmontseny.org

BesalúBesalú Miniature and Micro-miniature MuseumPl. del Prat de Sant Pere, 15 · Tel. +34 972 591 [email protected] · www.museuminiaturesbesalu.com

CadaquésSalvador Dalí House-MuseumPortlligat · Tel. +34 972 251 015 · Fax +34 972 251 [email protected] · www.salvador-dali.org/museus/portlligat/esCadaqués Municipal MuseumC/ de Narcís Monturiol, 15 · Tel. +34 972 258 [email protected] · www.cadaques.org

CapmanyTap MuseumC/ de la Roca, 3 · Tel. +34 972 549 012 · Fax +34 972 549 [email protected] · www.grupoliveda.comCastelló d'Empúries

Curia-PrisonPl. de Jaume I, s/n · Tel. +34 972 156 233 · Fax +34 972 158 [email protected] · www.castello.catFarinera Eco-museumC/ de Sant Francesc, 5-7 · Tel. +34 972 250 512 · Fax +34 972 158 [email protected] · www.castello.catCastelló d'Empúries Parish MuseumPl. de Mossèn Cinto Verdaguer, s/n · Tel. +34 972 158 [email protected] · www.catedraldecastello.com

FigueresEmpordà MuseumRambla, 2 · Tel. +34 972 502 305 · Fax +34 972 510 [email protected] · www.museuemporda.orgEmpordà Technical MuseumC/ dels Fossos, 12 · Tel. +34 972 508 820 · Fax +34 972 510 765 · [email protected] · www.mte.catToy Museum of CataloniaC/ de Sant Pere, 1 (Hotel París) · Tel. +34 972 504 585 · Fax +34 972 676 [email protected] · www.mjc.catDalí Theatre-MuseumPl. de Gala-Salvador Dalí, 5 · Tel. +34 972 677 500 · Fax 972 501 [email protected] · www.salvador-dali.org

Castell-Platja d'AroDoll MuseumC/ de Lluís Companys, 1 · Tel. +34 972 817 179 · Fax +34 972 825 [email protected] · www.platjadaro.com

L'EscalaMotorbike Museum - Vicenç Folgado CollectionClosa d'en Llop, 9-11 · Tel. +34 972 774 302 · [email protected] Museum of Catalonia - EmpúriesApt. de correus 21 · C/ de Puig i Cadafalch, s/n · Tel. +34 972 770 208Fax +34 972 775 975 · [email protected] · www.mac.catAnchovy and Salt MuseumAv. de Francesc Macià, 1 · Tel. +34 972 776 815 · Fax +34 972 773 [email protected] · www.anxova-sal.cat

LlagosteraEmili Vilà i Gorgoll House-MuseumC/ de Sant Pere, 25-27 · Tel. +34 972 830 253 · www.museuvila.com

LlançàJ. Martínez Lozano Museum of Water Paintings · Casa de CulturaPl. Major · Tel. +34 972 121 470 · Fax +34 607 462 600 · [email protected] · www.mda.cat

PalafrugellCork MuseumC/ de Pi i Margall, 26-28 · Tel. +34 972 307 825 · Fax +34 972 302 [email protected] · www.museudelsuro.catJosep Pla FoundationC/ Nou, 51 · Tel. +34 972 305 [email protected] · www.fundaciojoseppla.catPalamósFishing MuseumMoll Pesquer, s/n · Tel. +34 972 600 424 · Fax +34 972 316 [email protected] · www.museudelapesca.org

PalsMaritime Archaeology Museum - Ca la PrunaC/ de la Creu, 7 (Casa de Cultura) · Tel. +34 972 636 833 · Fax +34 972 636 [email protected] · www.pals.es

RosesCitadel MuseumAv. de Rhode, s/n · Tel. +34 972 151 466 · Fax +34 972 458 [email protected] · www.patrimonideroses.cat

Lloret de MarMuseum of the Sea - Can GarrigaPg. de Camprodon i Arrieta, 1-2 · Tel +34 972 364 [email protected] · www.lloretdemar.org

Breda

Josep Aragay MuseumC/ Nou, 2 · Tel. +34 972 870 220 · [email protected] · www.museuaragay.org

Cervià de TerRaset Modern Art MuseumC/ de Raset de Baix, 29 · Tel. +34 972 496 [email protected] · www.museo-raset.org

La Pera (Púbol)Gala Dalí Castle House-MuseumPl. de Gala Dalí · [email protected] · www.salvador-dali.org/museus/pubol

BanyolesArchaeology MuseumPl. de la Font, 11 · Tel. +34 972 572 361 · Fax +34 972 575 [email protected] · www.museusdebanyoles.catDarder MuseumPl. dels Estudis, 2 · Tel. +34 972 574 467 · Fax +34 972 571 [email protected] · www.museusdebanyoles.cat

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of the integration of medieval religious architecture into thesurrounding environment. Visitors can admire the castles, manorhouses and monasteries in the hamlets of Segueró, Palera andLligordà. The church of Sant Domènec de Palera, consecrated in1085, is particularly noteworthy, as is that of Sant Feliu de Beuda,with a 12th-century baptismal font decorated with figures in relief.

MOLLÓ AND BEGET6

In Molló we find the 12th-century church of Santa Cecília, featuringa four-story square bell tower and a lateral portal.Beget is a tiny village with an intact medieval structure whichearned it the status of Monumental Historic Heritage. The mostnoteworthy construction in the hamlet is the 10th-century churchof Sant Cristòfol, one of the finest Romanesque chapels in thearea, with a slender, four-storied bell tower 22 metres high. TheChrist in Majesty of Beget is venerated here, a valuable 12th-century polychrome wood carving of a crowned Christ in a fulllength tunic, considered one of the best Romanesque sculpturesof its kind.

From Beget, the route takes you into the Garrotxa county. There are severaldifferent options:a) Go back down the C-38 for a short while until the C-26 and head towardsOlot, until the turn-off to Sant Joan les Fonts (with its Romanesque monastery)and Castellfollit de la Roca. Take the GIV-5221 up to Oix.b) Go back down the C-38 until Sant Pau de Segúries and take a dirt trackto Bac Valley, looking out for small Romanesque hermitages along the way.From there continue on to Oix.c) Take the dirt track from Beget leading directly to Oix.

ALTA GARROTXA COUNTY7

The Alta Garrotxa covers a large area of the Pre-Pyrenees, with arugged countryside of great natural beauty, protected as a Space ofNatural Interest. All this provides a huge range of options for hikersand nature-lovers alike, which can be combined with a visit to someof the many small Romanesque hermitages dotted all over the area.If you are driving, the best option is to take the C-38 (Sant Pau deSegúries - Molló) and the N-260 (La Vall de Bianya - Castellfollit de laRoca - Besalú - Figueres) and branch off along any of the secondaryroads leading up to the small, charming villages of Beget, Oix, Montagut,Sadernes, Tortellà, Sales de Llierca and Beuda.

Oix was the capital of the Alta Garrotxa until 1972, but relinquishedthe title in favour of Montagut due to depopulation of the town. Byvirtue of its castle, Oix boasts a past of considerable importancebetween the Moorish period and the 15th century. The remains of thecastle and the 12th-century parish church of Sant Llorenç are bothjewels of Romanesque art. The medieval bridge is also worthy of note.

Beuda is a village of Romanesque origin and a perfect example

BESALÚ8

In 1966 the magnificent town of Besalú was declared a NationalHistorical-Artistic Site on account of its architectural value and ofits history under the Counts of Besalú. The town maintained itsindependence until it came under the rule of the Counts of Barcelona.For many centuries Besalú was home to a Jewish community (seeRoute 4) and an example of the coexistence between Jewish andChristian cultures. The centre of the town is medieval with manydistinguishing features, as for example the Romanesque bridge, theRoyal Curia, the Hospital of Sant Julià, the Plaça de la Llibertat,several churches and other buildings which together make up thisextraordinary medieval site (see Route 10).

SECONDARY ROUTE I: From Besalú, we can make a detour from the main route and take theC-66 towards Banyoles and Porqueres where, right beside Banyoles Lake, the church of SantaMaria provides us with a magnificent example of Romanesque architecture. Several otherhermitages and churches are dotted over Pla de l'Estany county. From Porqueres we can goon up to Mieres and Santa Pau, good examples of medieval villages (see Route 7).We now come to the monumental city of Girona, where it is well worth taking the time to appreciatethe wide range of cultural and artistic attractions as well as the leisure and shopping facilities available.Romanesque constructions include the renowned Arab Baths; the mainly Gothic Cathedral whichnevertheless conserves Romanesque elements such as the former bell tower, also known as Charlemagne'sTower (dating from the 11th century, the five-story Lombard-style tower was retained as a buttressto support the later Gothic construction of the Cathedral); the church of Sant Nicolau and themagnificent monastery of Sant Pere de Galligants, now housing the city Archaeology Museum. In theCathedral museum we find the Creation Tapestry, the most important Romanesque textile existingin the world. Dating from the first half of the 12th century, the large tapestry (12 m2) shows an intricateiconographic pattern that reflects influences from many different sources. (See Routes 2, 4 and 10).From Girona take the GI-531 towards Llémena Valley, where we find the Romanesque churches of Sant Martí andSant Esteve de Llémena, set in a landscape that is surprisingly natural given its proximity to the city of Girona. Thisroad ends on reaching the C-63 at Les Planes d'Hostoles. Continue on towards Amer, site of the 10th-centuryBenedictine monastery of Santa Maria, of which only the Romanesque church and the former cloister remaintoday. The Main Square in Amer is the second largest porticoed square in Catalonia. Continue on down to Anglèsand then take the GI-542 into the heart of La Selva county, known for its springs and mineral waters. We reachOsor, with a 12th-century Benedictine priory in the Mare de Déu del Coll sanctuary, and continue on towardsSant Hilari Sacalm, the “town of the thousand springs” and starting point for numerous hiking trails and othermountain activities in the Guilleries Massif. Take the GI-550 down towards Arbúcies, also worth a visit, and thenthe GI-552 to Breda. Breda is one of the main pottery manufacturing towns in the province of Girona (see Route8). The most striking sight in the historic town centre is the slender 32-metre high bell tower, the only remainingfeature of the former Romanesque monastery of Sant Salvador. From Breda, we can go into the MontsenyNatural Park and up to Riells, where we find another Romanesque church and many superb hiking trails. Bredais very near the Barcelona-Girona-Figueres AP-7 motorway.

The GREATROMANESQUE ROUTE

At Ripoll take the N-152 to Campdevànol, from where either goto Gombrèn (see Route 5) or else follow the road on to Ribes deFreser, with its ruined castle and reconstructed church of SantaMaria which still retains three original Lombard Romanesqueapses. A rack-and-pinion railway runs a regular service up toNúria valley.From Ribes de Freser there are three recommended secondaryroutes:

a)Take the GIV-5263 to Bruguera and a forest track throughJou pass to Ogassa, from where the GIV-5211 brings us backto Sant Joan de les Abadesses. This is a route of greatnatural beauty.

b)Take the GIV-5262 to Pardines, a typical high Pyrenean villagewith an intact medieval structure and magnificent views.Nearby there is the Romanesque church of Santa Magdalenade Puigsac, with a panoramic view of Ribes valley.

c)Take the GIV-4011 for 6 km, winding 230 metres up to thevillage of Campelles (at an altitude of 1,145 metres), wherethere is a spa and a church of Romanesque origin. Nearby ElBaell hamlet is worth a trip to see the vistas and enjoy thepeace and quiet. It is a good starting point for hiking trails.

RIBES VALLEY (see Routes 1 and 5)3

CERDANYA (see Routes 1 and 6)5

Some of the main villages in Cerdanya (Llívia, Alp, Bellver deCerdanya) have already been mentioned in Routes 1 and 6. Wenow suggest continuing along the N-260 towards Bellver deCerdanya and La Seu d'Urgell, turning just after Ger. Drive alongthe GIV-4031 up to Meranges, a typical mountain village withhiking trails leading to Malniu lakes and to Guils-Fontanera cross-country ski resort.At Meranges there is also an interesting Clog Museum.

From Camprodon we can either go up to Molló and Beget, twocharming villages with a magnificent Romanesque heritage, orelse follow the course of the River Ter along the GIV-5264 toLlanars, Vilallonga de Ter and Setcases. Although not includedin Route 1, Setcases has a 12th-century Romanesque church witha baroque altar. The town is also one of the gastronomic centresof the Pyrenees.Continue on along the same picturesque road to Vallter andVallter 2000 ski resort. At this point we recommend taking theGR-11 hiking trail that winds up through mountain meadows andpastures to reach Ulldeter and the source of the River Ter.

Go back to Camprodon and down to Sant Joan de les Abadesses. Take thepicturesque GI-521 through the Sentigosa pass (1,064 metres) to Vallfogonade Ripollès. Take a leisurely look around the village and its woodedsurroundings. Points of interest include La Sala Castle, with a seven-storiedtower; the well-conserved medieval village centre, the old bridge and achurch that was originally Romanesque.Now take the N-260 to Ripoll.

CAMPRODON VALLEY (see Route 1)2

The rack-and-pinion railway line affords impressive views on itsway up to the spectacular Núria valley, situated at an altitude of2,000 metres above sea level and surrounded by 3,000-metrepeaks. It is the starting point for many hikes and excursions.There is a small, family-oriented ski resort in the valley. One ofthe main points of interest is the sanctuary, with its Romanesquewood carving of the Madonna of Núria.

Go back again to Ribes de Freser and take the N-152 through the Toses passto Puigcerdà, capital of Cerdanya. The road goes high up over the mountainsand tyre chains are often required in winter. The route passes the charmingvillages of Planoles, Dòrria and Toses (see Route 1) and turnoffs to La Molinaand Masella, major ski resorts in winter and mountain activity centres insummer, before reaching Puigcerdà.

NÚRIA VALLEY4


Take the GIV-5217 to the picturesque mountain village of Queralbs. The southportal of the 12th-century Romanesque church is one of the best examplesof Catalan Romanesque porches. Cars cannot drive beyond this point up toNúria sanctuary, to which access is only by hiking trails (difficult in winter)and by the rack-and-pinion railway, which also stops in Queralbs.

11

With a long history as the former seat of the Counts of Peralada,the town is now a major medieval monumental site that requires aleisurely visit (see Route 10). Romanesque art is represented by thecloister of the former 12th-13th-century convent of Sant Domènec,a place of great beauty with outstanding columns and capitals.

Continue along the C-252 until Garriguella, and then take the GIV-6032 toVilamaniscle. Halfway between Vilamaniscle and Rabós d'Empordà, there is atrack leading to the monastery of Sant Quirze de Colera.

From Besalú we follow the N-260 towards Figueres, stopping atNavata to see the former 12th-century church known as CanMiró, called after a nearby farmhouse. From Navata, the GIP-5239 leads up to the village of Lladó. The church of Sant Feliucan be visited by asking for the key at the Town Hall. The 12th-century monastery of Santa Maria de Lladó, originally anAugustinian canonry and nowadays still lived in by nuns, featuresa portal with highly ornamented archivolts.A track leads from Lladó to Cistella, which can also be reachedby turning off onto the GIP-5101 a little bit further along the N-260. The little church of Santa Maria de Cistella was firstdocumented in 978 and although now reconstructed, stillconserves a Romanesque façade.From Cistella go on up the GIP-5101 until the GI-510, and from thereon towards Albanyà, where we find the 14th-century neo-RomanesqueMare de Déu del Mont sanctuary, situated at a height of 1123 metres.Go back along the same road until Figueres (see Route 3). Takethe C-252 for one kilometre to reach Vilabertran, and from therecontinue on to Peralada.

MAIN ROUTE: THE BESALÚ - FIGUERES AXIS9

MONASTERY OF SANTA MARIA DE VILABERTRAN10

This magnificent Romanesque site was originally an Augustiniancanonry and contains three outstanding elements: the 11th-centurychurch with a central nave flanked by two aisles, the 12th-centuryLombard bell tower and the 12th-13th-century cloister. King JaumeII married Blanca d'Anjou here in the year 1295.A 14th-century cross, considered one of the jewels of Catalansilverwork, can be seen in one of the chapels. Schubertian concertsand other musical events are held every year in the monastery.

MONASTERY OF SANT QUIRZE DE COLERA12

The former Benedictine monastery, now in ruins, contains vestigesfrom different periods, such as the 10th-11th-century church andthe cloister. At a distance of 200 metres from the monastery thereis the 12th-13th-century church of Santa Maria de Colera.We are now very near the Albera Natural Place of National Interest,a mountain range studded with over 130 megalithic monuments(dolmens, menhirs. etc.). Itineraries can be found in any of the localtourist offices and at the information points in the Natural Place.

Go back along the GI-603 until you reach the N-260. Follow the main road to Llançàand take the coast road towards Colera and then on to Portbou, site of the PassagenMemorial dedicated to the European exiles of World War II and to German philosopherWalter Benjamin, who died here while fleeing from the Nazis. We can also findinformation here on other exiles' routes such as those taken by Republicans duringthe Spanish Civil War. Back again in Llançà, take the GI-612 towards El Port de laSelva, turning off at the signpost to the monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes.

MONASTERY OF SANT PERE DE RODES13

Sant Pere de Rodes monastery is situated in the Verdera mountainrange, overlooking the sea with magnificent views of the coastand Cap de Creus. The monastery dates from the year 878 andwas lived in by monks until 1789. Although the origins are uncertain,the building was largely constructed between the 10th and 12thcenturies, the highpoint of the age of Romanesque splendour. Thechurch is of a type unique to Catalan Romanesque architecture.The monastery, the church of Santa Helena and the remains ofVerdera castle and settlement constitute this magnificentmonumental site, with which we conclude The Great Romanesqueroute. In the monastery you will also find one of the Cap de CreusNatural Park tourist information offices (see Route 3).

SECONDARY ROUTE II: Go back to Figueres, then onto the N-II, turning off along C-31 until Torroellade Fluvià. From there take the GIV-6216 to see the 12th-13th-century priory of Sant Tomàs de Fluviàwith its notable paintings, and the Benedictine monastery of Sant Miquel de Fluvià dating from 1045.(Ask for the key at the shop opposite). Go back along the C-31 and follow the Verges - Torroellade Montgrí - Pals route (Routes 9 and 10). Just off the GI-651, on the way to Pals, we find themedieval villages of Sant Julià de Boada with its pre-Romanesque church, Palau-sator, Peratallada (seeRoute 10) and Canapost where the church of Sant Esteve has juxtaposed pre-Romanesque andRomanesque constructions. Take the C-66 through La Bisbal d'Empordà, a pottery and shoppingcentre (see Routes 8 and 9), and turn off to Cruïlles, another medieval village (see Route 10) withan old Benedictine monastery dating from the 12th century. Turn around and go back to La Bisbaland take the GI-660 over the Gavarres mountains and over to the Costa Brava (Palamós, Calongeand Platja d'Aro) dropping down to the seaside town of Sant Feliu de Guíxols, thus ending thissecondary route. In this town we find some outstanding Modernist houses (Route 2) and a monasteryconstructed in different architectural styles over Romanesque foundations. Sant Feliu de Guíxolsis host to the annual summer Porta Ferrada Music Festival.

PERALADA11


Leave Figueres and head north along the N-II until the GIP-5107turnoff to Sant Llorenç de la Muga, a walled village with aRomanesque church and an old bridge. Follow the road on to theend, where there are several hermitages, sanctuaries andmonasteries dotted around the municipal district of Albanyà.This is also a starting point for climbing the Puig de Bassegoda(1,374 m). Drive back to the N-II and head towards La Jonquerauntil the GI-502 turnoff to Darnius, starting point for a trip toBoadella reservoir. Drive on to Maçanet de Cabrenys, formerfortified town with a late Romanesque church, and starting pointfor excursions to various places such as the sanctuary of Marede Déu de les Salines, 12 km along a forest track.

Go back to Figueres and take the N-260 to Besalú (Routes 1, 4, 8 and 10),Castellfollit de la Roca and Olot, branching off on the way to visit the villagesof Beuda, Oix, Sant Joan les Fonts and Santa Pau. (See Routes 1, 7 and 10).From Olot, take the C-26 and then the C-38 to Sant Pau de Segúries andCamprodon.

Traditional ARCHITECTUREin the PYRENEESFactsheet

CULTURAL HERITAGEThis route explores small Pyrenean towns and villageswhere the traditional way of life is still kept alive,and other places that are more associated withwinter sports and mountain activities.

ROUTE CHARACTERISTICSLineal route.

MAIN ROUTEApproximately 368 km

STARTING POINTFigueres. The route can also start in Ripoll orPuigcerdà.


The Girona Pyrenees stretch over a large area along the northof the province. Between the high peaks in Cerdanya and Cap deCreus Natural Park there are many places of interest: thespectacular valleys of Camprodon, Ribes, Núria and Cerdanya;villages where the architecture and activities traditionally linkedto the Pyrenean economy are still conserved; and other placesthat have found a new means of livelihood in ski resorts andmountain tourism. For maximum enjoyment, it is recommendedto alternate motoring with hiking trails, and to carry correctwalking equipment. This route is ideally combined with the GreatRomanesque Route (Route 1).

FIGUERES - SALINES-BASSEGODA1

Routedescription

Girona

FigueresCamprodon

Ripoll

Ribes de Freser


Puigcerdà Salines-Bassegoda

Sant Llorençde la Muga

Albanyà

12

34

2

12 33

The route starts at Blanes where there are two outstanding placesof interest. In a historical context, the return of wealthy “Indiano”families from the Americas propitiated the construction of severalbuildings containing Modernist elements, of which the mostnotable are Casa del Poble, an important cultural and politicalcentre until the outbreak of the Spanish Civil War, and CasaTordera with its bow window and window decorations. OtherModernist houses include Can Alemany, Casa de l'Estrella andCan Panxo Gordo.Do not leave the town without a visit to Marimurta BotanicalGardens, designed by Josep Goday for botanist Karl Faust in 1928and situated between Sant Francesc and Sa Forcanera coves.Today it is one of the most important gardens in Europe withover 6,000 vegetal species from all over the world. Pinya de RosaBotanical Gardens are located in another beautifully landscapedcorner of Blanes.

Lloret de Mar, one of the main tourist centres in Girona, is a townwith over one thousand years of history, as testified by the Iberiansettlement at Puig Castellet (see Route 11). Several architects ofthe Modernist period (Enric Monserdà, Bonaventura Conill and

The GREATMODERNIST ROUTEFactsheet

CULTURAL HERITAGEModernisme was a major artistic and culturalmovement that flourished at the beginning of the20th century. In Catalonia, Modernisme wasparticularly important in the field of architecture.

ROUTE CHARACTERISTICSTransverse route over the whole province, runningfrom south to north and from east to west.

MAIN ROUTEApproximately 380 kilometres

STARTING POINTWe start in Blanes, but given the overall length of theroute, the starting point can be at any of the followingcities: Girona, Figueres, Olot, Ripoll or Puigcerdà.


Modernisme (corresponding to Art Nouveau in France and Belgium,Jugendstil in Germany, Sezession in Austria, Modern Style in Englandand Stile Liberty in Italy) was a very important movement inCatalonia in painting and also in the decorative and graphic arts.However, Catalan Modernisme flourished above all in architecture,under famous names such as Antoni Gaudí, Lluís Domènech iMontaner, Josep Puig i Cadafalch and Rafael Masó.There are many outstanding Modernist buildings in the provinceof Girona, both in the cities and in summer resorts where theCatalan bourgeoisie constructed holiday houses in the style ofthe time.

LLORET DE MAR2

BLANES1

Routedescription

Lloret de MarTossa de Mar

Sant Feliu de Guíxols

PalafrugellLa Bisbal d’Empordà

Caldes de Malavella

Olot

Camprodon

Ripoll

S’Agaró

Girona

Figueres

Blanes

TOSSA DE MAR. ROMAN VILLA AT ELS AMETLLERS6

This large Roman villa, dating from 1st century B.C. to 6th centuryA.D., is situated in the town of Tossa itself, opposite the formerSant Miquel Hospital, now Casa de Cultura. A large farmingestablishment where crops were grown and vineyards tended,it is the only one of its kind existing today along the coast. Thevilla is divided into two parts: the pars urbana dwelling area withnoble rooms, and the pars rustica area used for more practicalfarming purposes. The presence of thermal baths and a waterre-use system (unusual in this type of villa) are a nice exampleof the combination of practical farming with the luxury andcomfort of urban living. The municipal museum displays findingsfrom Els Ametllers villa, sculptures in Carrara marble and theextraordinary “Vitalis” mosaic.

Take the GI-682 to Lloret de Mar, turning off into a housing estate before the town. Just 500metres into the estate we find a necropolis with a stout prism-shaped Roman sepulchraltower called “Torre dels Avellaners”. The 4-metre high tower has a cylindrical receptaclewhere the ashes of the dead were deposited. Continuing on for about 2 km through the samehousing estate, there is an Iberian settlement at the top of the hill.

LLORET DE MAR. IBERIAN SETTLEMENTS AT PUIG CASTELLET AND MONTBARBAT7

Puig Castellet, Montbarbat and Turó Rodó sites in Lloret de Mar allbear witness to the presence of Iberian culture in the area: PuigCastellet is situated in a place with magnificent views over the coastalplain without actually being visible from the sea. The walled settlement,inhabited between 250 and 120 B.C., consists of 11 rectangular spaceswith one, two or three rooms a work area in each. In the central partthere is evidence of another construction that was used by thecommunity. The Montbarbat settlement, with an area of about 5,700m2, was inhabited between the 4th and the 2nd centuries B.C. Accessis from Nostra Senyora del Vilar sanctuary.

From Lloret take the C-63 and then the N-II until the GI-673 turnoff to Caldes de Malavella.

BANYOLES. PREHISTORIC CAVE PARK9

ROMAN ROAD AT CAPSACOSTA10

Ancient Roman engineering skills can be admired on the stretchof the old Empordà - Ripollès communications route that runsfrom Sant Pau de Segúries to La Vall de Bianya: two lines ofsquare or rectangular stone blocks flanking a causeway filledwith local stone.

Take the N-260 back towards Olot and then onto the A-26 to Sant Jaumede Llierca. Turn off towards Tortellà and the Llierca bridge. The bestknown archaeological site in the valley is the cave at Serrat del Pont.Cark park in the Llierca bridge. Take the A-26 back to Besalú (see Routes1, 4, 8 and 10) and from there back to Figueres.

This route can be combined with routes 1, 2, 3, 4, 7, 8, 9, 10 and 12.

8 CALDES DE MALAVELLA. ROMAN THERMAL BATHS AT PUIG DE ST. GRAU

The thermal baths, dating from the 1st century A.D., are classifiedas a Historical Monument of National Interest. Formerly AquisVoconis, later Aquae Calidae, this was a mandatory stop for travellersalong the Via Augusta, and is now considered of great historicalvalue. Today we can still see a large pool, high walls, the remainsof some outbuildings, and the nearly intact mechanism.

Go onto the AP-7 or the N-II, passing Girona and Sarrià de Ter until you reachSant Julià de Ramis. An Iberian settlement dating from the 5th-1st centuries B.C. iscurrently under excavation and thought to be one of the most important in thearea. There is a signposted path for visitors to walk around the site. Now takethe C-66 to Banyoles (see Route 7).

Situated near Banyoles, La Draga is a significant Palaeolithic andNeolithic lakeside site where archaeologists have found manyutensils, chiefly agricultural tools, in a perfect state of conservationdue to partial submersion in water. Just after Banyoles, there isthe prehistoric park in Serinyà where caves inhabited from thePalaeolithic right up to the Metal Age are open to the public,complete with audiovisual show and exhibition. Findings fromthe two sites are on display in the Archaeology Museum.

From Banyoles take the GI-524 to Santa Pau and Olot, crossing the NaturalPark of the Garrotxa Volcanic Area (see Routes 2, 7 and 8) and the VolcanoMuseum in Olot, a must for anybody interested in the subject. Take theC-26 to Sant Pau de Segúries.

VIC-OLOT HISTORIC HIGHWAY11

The 44-km historic road between Vic and Olot runs across thePlain of Vic, the Cabrerès area and the Plain of Olot. The formerhighway, almost completely signposted, conserves part of itsoriginal stone paving as well as some noteworthy constructionsalong the route. The central Les Marrades stretch is an impressivework of engineering built over very rough natural terrain.Experienced hikers can easily complete the whole highway inone day, but leisurely walkers may prefer to do it in two. Toaccess Les Marrades stretch of the highway directly, take the C-153 to Els Hostalets d'en Bas and continue on to Molí de l'Aubert.Park here and start the route, which climbs up slowly and steadilyfor 400 metres until reaching Hostal del Grau. Come down againthe same way, or else walk on to Falgars d'en Bas and take thesignposted track back down to Els Hostalets d’en Bas.

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11

32

The Vila Vella or Old Town in Tossa has one of the most importantmedieval ramparts in the whole of Catalonia, declared NationalHistorical-Artistic Monument in 1931 (see Routes 9 and 11). Overthe years, Tossa has left its mark on the art world and the townboasts several remarkable museums.The main Modernist building in the town is Casa Sans, designedby the architect Antoni de Falguera.

Follow the GI-682 until Sant Feliu de Guíxols.

TOSSA DE MAR3

This large tourist town and major Costa Brava fishing port hassome beautiful lookout points from which to admire the bay. Theold monastery (see Route 1) is a place of cultural reference. SantFeliu de Guíxols has some of the best Modernist heritage in theprovince of Girona. Notable buildings include Casino dels Noisand Casa Patxot designed by municipal architect General Guitarti Lostaló; the head office of “la Caixa” savings bank and Can Casa,both by Rafael Masó, and the Casas family vault by Puig i Cadafalch.The town cemetery is also worth a visit. Other Modernist elementscan be seen at Casa Estrada and Torre de les Punxes, in thedistrict of Sant Pol.

Follow the coast road past Sant Pol cove until you reach S'Agaró.

SANT FELIU DE GUÍXOLS4

S'AGARÓ5

We are now in one of the finest residential areas along the coast,where the Noucentista style can be seen on several houses ofgreat refinement and classical sobriety. The Hostal de la Gavinaand Senya Blanca were designed by Rafael Masó and FrancescFolguera respectively in S'Agaró estate.

Continue along the coast road, now C-253, and go through Platja d'Aro, SantAntoni de Calonge and Palamós. Modernist houses can also be seen on La Foscabeach, to the north of Palamós. Take the C-31 inland for a short distance toPalafrugell.

Puig i Cadafalch) designed interesting buildings in the town: theMare de Déu de Gràcia sanctuary, the church of Sant Romà, theSantíssim chapel, etc.In the cemetery overlooking the sea there are several Modernistvaults, such as that belonging to the Costa Macià family.We recommend a visit to the Santa Clotilde Gardens, designedby architect Nicolau Maria Rubió i Tudurí in 1919, at the heightof the Modernist period.

Drive along the twisting GI-682 past some of the most spectacular coves of theCosta Brava (stopping on the way at a lookout point to admire the view) untilyou reach Tossa de Mar.


LA BISBAL D'EMPORDÀ7

The Baix Empordà county capital is a town of great historicalimportance, centred around the castle (see Route 9). La Bisbalis a market town and a pottery centre (see Route 8), with someoutstanding Modernist buildings such as the Carreras-Dagashouse (now a small hotel in the centre of the town) and theformer El Mundial cinema. The Noucentista terrace of porticoedtown houses called Les Voltes is also of great architecturalinterest.

PALAFRUGELL6

Palafrugell is a large town with a lively weekly market, aninteresting cultural programme and an industrial history linkedto cork production (see Route 8). The writer Josep Pla was bornin Palafrugell and lived here for many years. A literary routetraces the places that gave inspiration for his works.Several Modernist houses can be seen in Palafrugell: Casa Almeda,Casa Miquel, the Casino, the La Económica Palafrugellensecooperative, the Cork Museum - Can Mario, etc.The nearby coves of Calella, Llafranc, Tamariu and Aigua Xelidaare among the most characteristic of the Costa Brava, along withothers situated to the north in the municipal district of Begur.Modernist houses were also built in these traditional summerholiday towns. Visitors will enjoy walking along the coastal pathsoverlooking coves of great natural beauty.

From Palafrugell take the C-66 to La Bisbal d'Empordà and from there continueon to Girona.

Routedescription

Castellfollitde la Roca

Darnius

Agullana

Roses

Sant Martíd’Empúries

Ullastret


Olot

Sant Paude Segúries

Girona

Figueres

We leave Figueres by the AP-7 or the N-II and head towards LaJonquera, taking the GI-602 to Espolla. Ask at the Albera NaturalPlace Information Centre about the megalithic routes in the area,with over 130 documented examples, mainly dolmens and menhirs.The Albera is also studded with Romanesque constructions (seeRoute 1) and castles like the one at Requesens (see Route 9).

Back on the main road, opposite the GI-602 turnoff, take the GI-502 to Darnius,near Boadella reservoir. A detour along the GI-500 brings us further up to Agullana.

BACK toOUR ROOTSFactsheet

CULTURAL HERITAGEThis route follows the main archaeological sites inthe Girona area, an exceptional heritage left to usby our most remote ancestors.

ROUTE CHARACTERISTICSCircular route running from south to north


STARTING POINTFigueres


The fertile lands of Girona have been inhabited since timeimmemorial, as witnessed by the many cultures and civilisationsthat have lived here throughout history, leaving behind themmegalithic monuments, prehistoric caves, Iberian settlements,Greco-Roman sites and much more. Our route visits somearchaeological sites to learn about these peoples and see thelandscape and customs that they bequeathed us, and culminatesin the classical ruins at Empúries, among the most important inSpain and situated in the very place where Greek and Romancivilisations entered the Iberian Peninsula.

At the well-known tourist market town of Roses, we will visit themonumental Citadel site (see Route 9), where we can see traces of theIberians, Greeks and Romans who settled here over the centuries: theHellenistic district dating from the 4th-3rd centuries B.C., a large Romanvilla, a medieval cemetery and a fortress from the Renaissance period.

Go back to Castelló d'Empúries and take the GIV-6216, driving through the marshes of the Aiguamolls de l'Empordà NaturalPark to the villages of Sant Pere Pescador and L'Armentera. Take a local road to Viladamat and from there the GI-623 to L'Escala.

ROSES. THE CITADEL3FIGUERES - MEGALITHIC ALBERA1

Darnius and Agullana are the starting points for the Salines-Bassegoda zone. Near Agullana there are some menhirs, dolmensand a necropolis. Romanesque constructions and castles in thisarea include the sanctuary of Mare de Déu de les Salines, Cabreracastle, Albanyà village and the walled Sant Llorenç de la Muga.

Return to Figueres and take the C-260 to Castelló d'Empúries and Roses.

SALINES-BASSEGODA MEGALITHIC ROUTE2

L'Escala is a seafaring, tourist town well-known for its traditionalanchovy salting industry. A pleasant coastal path eventually bringsus to Sant Martí d'Empúries (1.8 km), a charming little medieval villagewith a few houses clustered around the 10th-century church. Thesetting is idyllic, surrounded by green spaces and with pine grovesflanking the beach. This same coast walk was remodelled before theBarcelona Olympic Games in 1992 and it was here that the Olympicflame arrived to Catalonia, brought ashore at the very same placewhere the ancient Greeks had landed 2500 years earlier. The pathleads past the former Greek port and up to the archaeological site.Empúries was founded in the year 550 B.C., the first Greek colony onthe Iberian Peninsula. Construction of the Roman city started aroundthe year 100 B.C. on a site somewhat higher up. The museum is notvery large but displays interesting findings from the excavations andhas educational panels explaining the importance of the site and itslinks with the Iberian settlement at Ullastret.

From L'Escala we go back along the GI-623 until reaching the C-31 to Verges and on to Parlavà, where we turn lefttowards Torroella de Montgrí. Half way along this road, turn off onto the GI-644 for the Ullastret Iberian settlement.

EMPÚRIES ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE4

Banyoles

Salines-Bassegoda

Alberamountain

range

ULLASTRET. IBERIAN SETTLEMENT5

A visit to this site and the adjoining Archaeology Museum is a good wayto learn about the ancient Iberian civilisation that settled here in the 7thcentury B.C. The street plan of the walled village can still be clearly seenand the museum gives information on Iberian funerary rituals, socialactivities and so on.

Go southwards along the GI-644 towards La Bisbal, turning off onto the C-66 to Palafrugell. Drive down past the seaside village ofLlafranc and on up to Sant Sebastià lighthouse, 178 metres above sea level and commanding fantastic views along the coast. Nearbyare some minor remains of the Iberian settlement at Sant Sebastià de la Guarda. Go back to Palafrugell and onto the main road towardsPalamós. After a few kilometres there is a road to the left leading to Platja del Castell, one of the few unspoiled spots along the CostaBrava. Ruins of another Iberian settlement can be seen along the coast walk.Go back along the coast road to Platja d'Aro and turn inland to Castell d'Aro (see Route 9), where at Pla de Palol we find the remainsof a Roman villa dating from the 1st century B.C.. Now take a picturesque local road through the Gavarres mountains to Romanyàde la Selva, and have a look at the Cova d'en Daina dolmen. Go back down to Tossa de Mar on the coast.

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The GREATMODERNIST ROUTE

GIRONA8

Girona, one of the four capital cities in Catalonia, is a monumentalcultural and artistic heritage centre with many museums. Thereare buildings from all different styles and periods, ranging frommedieval Romanesque to the rationalist architecture of the 1960s(see Routes 1, 4 and 10). Modernist houses of great architecturalvalue designed by Rafael Masó include Casa Teixidor (also knownas Casa de la Punxa), now the Technical Architects' Association;Farinera Teixidor, opposite the latter building, now housing theoffices of El Punt newspaper; Casa Batlle, crowned by eight ceramicowls on the cornice. Other lesser known Masó buildings includeCasa Ensesa, Casa Gispert Saüch and Casa Masó.

Following the course of the River Ter, of great importance for local industry(see Route 8), take the N-141 towards Bescanó, where we can see the ModernistPower Plant designed by architect Joan Roca i Pinet, and on to Anglès, wherethere are two Modernist houses in the town centre designed by Rafael Masó:Casa Vinyes and Casa Cendra.From Anglès, take the picturesque GI-542 road leading into La Selva countythrough the Guilleries mountains. Drive on to Sant Hilari Sacalm, a spa andsummer holiday town that also boasts its share of Modernist buildings: FontPicant Spa and the old Cooperative building. Seven kilometres further onthere is Villavecchia castle, designed by Enric Sagnier i Villavecchia.Go down to the C-25 and then turn off to Santa Coloma de Farners, an importantspa centre (see Route 9), and from there, take the C-63 to Vidreres and thenthe C-35 to Llagostera. From Llagostera go along the GI-674 to Caldes deMalavella.

CALDES DE MALAVELLA9

In La Selva county, famous for its mineral waters, Caldes de Malavellais without doubt the town with the largest and richest Modernistheritage. At the turn of the 20th century, many spas were built toexploit the natural hot water springs of the area and the townbecame a popular watering place. Catalan bourgeois families builtsummer houses in the locality, with some in the fashionableModernist style of the time. Others incorporated Noucentistaelements in the design of their arches, decorative tiles, wroughtiron windows and balconies, stained glass, furniture and so on.The rich Modernist heritage includes about twenty differentbuildings, such as Vichy Catalan Spa, designed by Gaietà Buïgas;Prats Spa designed by Eusebi Bona; Casa de les Punxes; CasaRosa (or Casa Estapé) and Casa Mas i Ros, home of sardana musiccomposer Francesc Mas i Ros.

From Caldes de Malavella we take the N-II or the AP-7 for about 50 kilometresand head towards Figueres.

FIGUERES10

The most important city north of Girona, Figueres has a widecultural programme as well as several museums. Visitors arerecommended to take the time for a leisurely visit, and to see morethan just the Dalí Museum, the main attraction of the town (seeRoutes 3 and 9).At the end of the 19th century, prosperity of the city encouragedseveral powerful families to undertake construction of theModernist- style houses which today remain as an interestinglegacy of the period: Casa Puig Soler, birthplace of Salvador Dalí;Casa Mas-Roger (second residence of Dalí); Casa Salleras, CasaRoda, and so on. Other buildings in different styles include SalaEdison (the first cinema in the province of Girona); El Jardí Cinema-Theatre; Casino Menestral and the former municipal slaughterhouse.The architects who designed these buildings were Josep Azemar,Josep Martí, Sebastià Pi, Josep Bori and Llorenç Ros.

From Figueres, we can take the C-260 to Cadaqués (see Route 3), passing Castellód'Empúries and Roses on the way. Cadaqués has close links with Salvador Dalíand the art world, and is well worth a visit for the beauty of the town and themany little coves along the coast. There are some Modernist houses here too andseveral vaults in the local cemetery adorned with sculptures by Josep Llimona.Go back to Figueres and take the N-260 leading to Besalú, one of the most charmingtowns in Girona (see Routes 1, 4 and 10), and from there on to Olot.

CASTELLÓ D'EMPÚRIES6

This medieval town was the seat of the counts of Empúries. There are manyinteresting places to see here: the Gothic Llotja de Mar and Casa Gran buildings,old convents, remains of the town ramparts and old bridge. However, the realtreasure of Castelló d'Empúries is the huge 13th-century Gothic church ofSanta Maria, known as the “Empordà cathedral”. The bell tower is Romanesque.

MEDIEVAL TOWNS AND VILLAGES IN GARROTXA COUNTY8

PERALADA7

This town was originally the seat of the counts of Peralada. Itlater came under the viscounts of Rocabertí, who built the castlethat we see today. Restored in the 19th century, it now houses acasino and in the summer months is host to the most importantinternational music festival in Catalonia. Peralada town has alarge historic centre that invites leisurely inspection. The mostoutstanding sights are the beautiful 12th-13th-century Romanesqueconvent of Sant Domènec, with its capitals showing biblicalscenes; the 14th-century carmelite convent , with its Gothicchurch and cloister, and historic archives; the large librarycontaining over 70.000 volumes, and the castle museum.

Go back to Figueres and take the N-260 to Besalú, an important medieval town(see Route 1 and, above all, Route 4) which is well worth a leisurely visit and isalso a good starting point for the medieval towns and villages in Garrotxa county.

Here are four more villages, all situated close to each other in a smallarea. Ullastret is typically medieval with its high ramparts, ten 13th-14th-century defence towers, Gothic-style covered market place and theRomanesque church of Sant Pere. Nearby Palau-sator is another medievalvillage laid out around the former La Torre palace, featuring a large pre-Romanesque tower, remains of ramparts and defence towers. Back onthe GI-651, at Sant Julià de Boada there is a small 10th-century pre-Romanesque church and on the other side of the road there is Sant Feliude Boada with a fortified Gothic church. We are now very close to Pals.

ULLASTRET - PALAU-SATOR - SANT JULIÀ DEBOADA AND SANT FELIU DE BOADA

4

Pals municipal district is very large and stretches from one of the mostoutstanding medieval towns in Catalonia to a very long beach a couple ofkilometres distant. The old town, “El Pedró”, is visible from afar on its hilltoplocation. A lookout point at the top commands excellent views over thesurrounding wetlands, where rice is still cultivated. Pals is classified as aHistorical-Artistic Site and offers interesting windows, arches, wells, etc.,from periods ranging from Romanesque to the 18th century. The mostoutstanding sights include Ca la Pruna, a 15th-16th-century fortified housestanding at the entrance to the old town, with several exhibition spaces;the Gothic church of Sant Pere; the clock-tower, sole remaining feature ofthe old castle and something of a local landmark; the well conservedramparts and six defence towers. Stroll around the streets of Pals at yourleisure and admire the architecture and craft shops.

Take the C-31 to the market town of Torroella de Montgrí, with its remains of medieval rampartsand defence towers. Main points of interest include the Santa Caterina Gate, Les Bruixes Tower,porticoed houses on the square, a former Royal Palace and the Gothic church of Sant Genís. Thereis a big international music festival held here every summer. Take the C-31 towards Verges and justafter leaving Torroella we find the medieval village of Ullà with its 18th-century church. Shortly afterUllà there is the GI-632 turnoff to Bellcaire d'Empordà with its 13th-century castle and Romanesquechurch of Sant Joan (Saint John). Further on the same road is Albons, with a Romanesque churchdedicated to Sant Cugat. From Albons, go back onto the C-31 and head towards Figueres, and fromthere take the C-260 to Castelló d'Empúries.

PALS5

Go back towards Figueres, skirting the town in order to take the C-252 to Peralada.


Just before Besalú take the GIV-5234 up to Beuda, a village ofRomanesque origin where castles, manor houses, and monasteriescome together in perfect harmony with their surroundings. Ofexceptional interest are the 11th-century Romanesque church ofSant Domènec de Palera and the 12th-century church of SantFeliu de Beuda, with a valuable baptismal font. The route nowtakes us down to Banyoles (see Routes 1 and 7) and along theGI-524 to Santa Pau, in the heart of the Natural Park of theGarrotxa Volcanic Area. This medieval town grew up around the13th-14th-century castle and characteristically porticoed MainSquare, amidst spectacular natural surroundings (see Route 7).

Drive on to Olot and first take the C-152 and then the GIP 5272 to Hostalets d'en Bas in the centre of the Valld'en Bas. The town is famous for Carrer Teixeda, the street with the wooden balconies, classified as a NationalHistorical-Artistic Monument. There is also an interesting Romanesque bridge (See Route 7). Turn back andtake the road to Sant Feliu de Pallerols, Les Planes d'Hostoles and on to Amer, where there is the porticoedMain Square, the second largest of its kind in Catalonia. Each arch is different, as are the buildings aroundthe square, from various periods and styles. The pavement is made from flagstones coming from differenttowns in Catalonia. Also recommended is a visit to the Benedictine monastery of Santa Maria, dating fromthe year 949 and active until 1835, where we can still see the church, the remains of the old cloister and theabbot's house (today a medical dispensary). The former train station is now the Tourist Office and a stageon the cycle track that links Olot to Girona and Sant Feliu de Guíxols. Take the road to Anglès, with one ofthe most outstanding Gothic quarters in Catalonia. Carrer Major and Carrer d'Avall are the most interestingstreets in Anglès. There are magnificent farmhouses dotted around the municipal district: 16th-century fortifiedCan Biel and Can Planes; 15th century Cuc farmhouse-mill; 12th-century Bellveí or Perarnau farm. There arealso several hermitages in the area. From Anglès we go back to Girona and end the route.

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Although the history of Ripoll largely revolves around that of itsRomanesque monastery and its medieval town centre (see Routes1 and 5), there are also a good number of Modernist houses inthe locality: Can Bonada, Sant Miquel de la Roqueta, Can Codina,Casa Dou and Casa Alòs.

The Modernist route can be continued by taking the N-152 until Ribes deFreser, from where the mountain Collada de Toses road leads to La Cerdanyacounty and its capital city, Puigcerdà. Visitors solely interested in Modernismewould be wise to consider the difficulty of this stretch of the route, foralthough Puigcerdà has many cultural attractions (see Routes 1 and 6) andis situated in a spectacular valley, only a few of the Modernist houses aroundthe lake are really worth the effort.

RIPOLL13

Olot is the capital of the Garrotxa which, with its volcanic landscape,is one of the most distinctive counties in the province of Girona.The Natural Park of the Garrotxa Volcanic Area is a huge protectedarea of great natural beauty, comprising 11 towns and villagesand 26 natural reserves, with over 40 volcanoes. Numerous hikingtrails crisscross the Park. The county has been the inspiration ofpoets and painters: Joan Maragall dedicated a poem to the well-known Fageda d'en Jordà beech wood, and the celebrated OlotSchool of Landscape Painters produced some of the great namesof 19th- and 20th-century Catalan painting, such as Josep Bergai Boix and brothers Marià and Joaquim Vayreda.Olot is situated in the middle of the Natural Park and has muchto offer the visitor. The city boasts a long artistic tradition ofpainting, sculpture and religious imagery; the Montsacopa volcano,the Moixina wetlands and the Botanical Gardens provide interestfor nature-lovers; gastronomy and commerce complete theattractions.Various Modernist and Noucentista constructions grace the city,such as Casa Solà-Morales (restored by Domènech i Montaner),Casa Gaietà-Vila and Casa Gassiot among others; ecclesiasticalbuildings such as the church of Sant Esteve, the church of Marede Déu del Tura and the Renaissance-style cloisters in the carmelitaconvent; museums include the Garrotxa County Museum, situatedin the neoclassical Hospice, with paintings by members of theOlot School of Landscape Painters, the Volcano Museum and the18th-century Casa Trincheria manor house, open to the public.

From Olot, take the N-260 until reaching the C-38. Go towards Camprodon,which we will visit first before continuing the route to Ripoll and Puigcerdà.

CAMPRODON12

The industrial development of Ripoll together with the rise ofCamprodon as a tourist destination, largely due to one Dr Robertwho recommended the valley to his patients, together promotedthe construction of a number of Modernist houses in the area.Bourgeois families from Barcelona built houses in Camprodon(see Routes 1 and 12), mainly on Passeig de Maristany, of whichCan Oliveda, Can Torrent, El Casal, Can Winkle, Can Conde, CanCabot, Can Mas de Xeixàs, Can Guasch and Can Maristany arethe most outstanding.Camprodon also has a museum dedicated to the musician IsaacAlbéniz. The town is a superb starting point for excursions aroundthe valley of the same name.

OLOT11

The city of Girona has many medieval features, described in detailin Route 4.

Leave Girona from the north exit, and take the C-66 towards La Bisbald'Empordà. At Bordils turn off along the GIV-6701, passing the charming,peaceful village of Sant Martí Vell featuring a church dating from 1433 witha curious late Gothic spire; Madremanya, another delightful monumental site;Monells and Cruïlles. Back on the nearby C-66, we come to La Bisbal and Corçà.

MEDIEVAL TOWNSand VILLAGESFactsheet

CULTURAL HERITAGEThe age-old history of Girona is well represented inthe rich cultural and architectural heritage of themedieval towns and villages in the area.

ROUTE CHARACTERISTICSCircular route running from south to north.


STARTING POINTGirona


The medieval period was of enormous importance in the Gironaarea, with history forged by the great monasteries and the smallindependent earldoms of Empúries, Peralada, Besalú and Girona,as witnessed by the wealth of walled towns, castles, Romanesqueand Gothic churches, palaces and other architectural treasures.This route goes through historical towns and villages, where theold world charm has either been preserved intact or combinesharmoniously with the present day. Look out for local craftworkand medieval fairs and markets. It should be noted that this routelinks up especially well with Route 9 (Castles and Ramparts) andRoute 1 (The Great Romanesque Route).

This is a typically medieval fortified village, with defence wallsenclosing irregular streets that converge onto the Main Square.The village grew up around the castle, with its elegant Gothicfaçade, and a magnificent donjon, one of the best of its kind inCatalonia. The Romanesque church of Sant Esteve is situatedoutside the walls.

Turn back along the same road and drive on to Ullastret, well known for thenearby Iberian settlement (see Route 11).

PERATALLADA3

GIRONA1

La Bisbal, capital of Baix Empordà county and large pottery centre,boasts a castle in the centre of the town (see Route 9), porticoedhouses, Main Square and old Jewish quarter. Together with thethree surrounding villages of Monells, Cruïlles and Corçà, this isan attractive route featuring stone houses, archivolts, ornamenteddoors and windows. Bars and restaurants are also in plentifulsupply. Monells and Cruïlles are both 2 km from La Bisbal, thesame distance that separates Monells and Corçà. The porticoedsquare is the main point of interest in Monells. However, by far themost interesting feature of the three villages is the 11th-12th-centuryRomanesque donjon in Cruïlles, with a height of 22.5 metres, acircumference of 24 metres and walls 2.39 metres thick. Cruïllesmonumental site includes the chapels of Esperança and Sant Joande Salelles. The 9th-century Benedictine monastery of SantMiquel, in Salelles district, conserves a Romanesque basilica anda fragment of the original cloister.

From La Bisbal, take the C-66 towards Palafrugell, turning off shortly ontothe GI-644 towards Peratallada.

MONELLS - CRUÏLLES - LA BISBAL -CORÇÀ2

Routedescription

Corçà

Monells

Peratallada

Sant Julià iSant Feliu de Boada

Ullastret

Pals

Castellód’Empúries

Peralada

FigueresBeuda

Besalú

Banyoles


Hostaletsd’en Bas

Girona

Cruïlles

Amer

Anglès

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Figueres is the main city north of Girona and the capital of theAlt Empordà, one of the oldest counties in the history of Cataloniaas witnessed by the many megalithic sites in the Albera mountainsand the rich Romanesque heritage of the area. Figueres hasmany cultural attractions apart from the Dalí Museum and isworth a leisurely visit. Among the most interesting museums arethe Toy Museum of Catalonia, the Empordà Museum with localarchaeology, art and history sections, and the Empordà TechnicalMuseum. A visit to the impressive Sant Ferran Castle, constructedbetween 1753 and 1772, is extremely interesting (see Route 9).Figueres also boasts several noteworthy Modernist buildings, arich cultural life, a large shopping zone and different marketsselling fruit and vegetables, clothes and bric-à-brac.

The SALVADORDALÍ TRIANGLEFactsheet

CULTURAL HERITAGEFollow the footsteps of surrealist master SalvadorDalí visiting the three spaces where the Gala-SalvadorDalí Foundation (www.salvador-dali.org) faithfullyreproduces the life and work of the painter.


MAIN ROUTE130 km



The painter Salvador Dalí was a master of surrealism and, withoutdoubt, one of the most important artists of the 20th century. Hewas born in Figueres, where many of his paintings are on showin the Dalí Museum. He lived and worked for many years in hishouse-workshop at Portlligat, near the town of Cadaqués on theCap de Creus promontory. Dalí was a genius who sought inspirationin the countryside; the rocks, the sea and the rough Cap de Creuslandscape are always present in his works. Our route also takesin Púbol Castle, given by Dalí as a gift to his wife Gala.

FIGUERES1

Routedescription

Girona

Figueres

Cadaqués

Portlligat

Púbol

Cap deCreus

Sanctuary of Marede Déu dels Àngels

The Dalí Museum with its emblematic dome is situated near theRambla in the centre of Figueres and is one of the most popularmuseums in Spain. This is the great masterpiece of Salvador Dalí,who worked on the design of the museum for over ten years,paying personal attention to every last detail. It was Dalí's ownidea to crown the building with a reticular dome-shaped structure.

DALÍ THEATRE-MUSEUM2

Set in one of the most exuberant nature spots on the Costa Brava, with85% of its territory included in the Plan for Spaces of Natural Interest,Tossa de Mar is the only fortified walled town on the Catalan coast. Themedieval ramparts of the town are an internationally recognised imageof the Costa Brava and were classified as a National Historical-ArtisticMonument as far back as 1931. The first reference to a town calledCastrum de Torsa dates from the year 966. It is also interesting to notethat until 1784 Tossa was under the authority of the Monastery of Ripoll.The long disappeared defence castle was built in 1187 at the highestpoint of the old town, on the site of today's lighthouse.The ramparts date from the 12th century, although extensive restorationworks were carried out in the 14th century. Spectacular towers stand outfrom the ramparts: Joanàs Tower overlooking the bay; Codolar Donjon,watching over the traditional fishermen's refuge and one of the bestloved Tossa de Mar beaches, and Clock Tower at the entrance to theparade ground. Tossa de Mar old town is well known for its artistictraditions and it is here that we find the Municipal Museum, oneof the main modern art museums in the Girona area, with anextraordinary collection of paintings by European avant-gardepainters who spent time in Tossa during the first half of the 1930s,such as Marc Chagall and André Masson. The MediterraneanLighthouse Interpretative Centre (Route 8) is open to the public.

TOSSA DE MAR3 LA BISBAL D'EMPORDÀ5

The pottery centre (see Routes 2 and 8) has a large castle datingfrom the year 1180, residence of the bishops of Girona andclassified as a national monument and as a Historical-ArtisticMonument since 1972. The castle is a good example of civilmedieval architecture but was reformed in the 15th, 16th and 17thcenturies. It is situated right in the centre of La Bisbal, besidethe remains of the old ramparts. There is another castle,documented from 1301, in the nearby hamlet of Castell d'Empordà.

Leaving La Bisbal on the C-66, turn off along the C-252 and then take the C-31 to Torroella de Montgrí.

FIGUERES. SANT FERRAN CASTLE7

Sant Ferran Castle is a major European fortress, a star-shaped pentagonwith a double row of ramparts, an exterior perimeter of over 3,100metres and an interior perimeter of 2,100 meters. Between the tworamparts there is a large moat and 8 cisterns. The parade ground hasan area of 12,000 m2. The castle had a garrison of 6,000 men, althoughit was actually designed to hold double that number. The well conservedfortress was opened to the public in 1997 and is classified as an Assetof Cultural Interest and a Historical-Artistic Monument.

Take the C-260 to Castelló d'Empúries, another very interesting medieval town (Route 10), and on to Roses,where we visit the monumental Citadel site showing the different occupations from its foundation by theGreeks until its 19th-century fall into disuse (see Route 11). The Citadel itself is a Renaissance fortificationthat was partly destroyed during the Napoleonic occupation. Go back to Figueres and take the AP-7 orthe N-II up to the border town of La Jonquera, from where we can see Rocabertí Castle and also the interestingRequesens Castle in the heart of the Albera Natural Place documented from the year 1050. Today's castle,now abandoned, is a spectacular late 19th century neo-medieval reconstruction, with three ramparts,round and square towers, courtyards, large outside staircases and so on.

The route finishes here in Requesens Castle.

TORROELLA DE MONTGRÍ6

Torroella is a town of great historical importance, having beenproclaimed royal town in 1273. There is a medieval centre with severalpalaces and a large Gothic church. The castle on top of Montgrímountain, 309 metres above sea level, was constructed by KingJaume II but never completed. The perimeter and four cylindricaltowers still stand. A one-hour climb to the top affords spectacularviews over the whole Empordà county and the Medes Islands.

Go back along the C-31 to Figueres, to visit Sant Ferran Castle.

This route can also be combined with routes 1, 2, 3, 8, 10, 11 and 12.

CASTELL D’ARO - CALONGE - BEGUR4

Follow the pretty GI-682 that twists its way along the coast to Sant Feliude Guíxols and Platja d'Aro, from where we turn off to Santa Cristinad'Aro and Castell d'Aro. The origin of Castell d'Aro goes back to themedieval Benedormiens Castle that protected the monastery of SantFeliu de Guíxols. The castle, classified as a Cultural Asset of NationalInterest, is situated on a hill 42 metres above sea level and has beenpartially restored as an exhibition room. Continue on along the C-31 tonearby Calonge, where there is a castle dating from the year 1019 witha large interior parade ground surrounded by towers and ramparts.Follow the C-31 until Palamós and Palafrugell and turn off along the GI-653 to Begur, a lovely small coastal town crowned by a round castle.Easily accessible on foot, the castle affords magnificent views of thecoves beneath. Leaving Begur we come to a series of medieval villagesstrung out over a short distance that are well worth a leisurely visit (seeRoutes 8 and 10): Pals, Palau-sator (with its clock tower), Peratallada,Cruïlles, Monells, Corçà and Ullastret. Drive on to La Bisbal d'Empordà.

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This route can be combined with routes 1, 2, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12.

He also created a series of paintings, sculptures and monumentalinstallations specially designed for the museum, such as the MaeWest Room, the Wind Palace Room and the Rainy Cadillac. Themuseum has three well-defined spaces: the Theatre-Museumitself, a burnt-down old theatre converted by Dalí into an exhibitionspace; the progressively enlarged exhibition rooms containingnumerous works by Dalí; and the Dalí·Jewels exhibition roomsdisplaying thirty-seven jewels of gold and precious stones alsodesigned by the artist.The museum contains a wide range of works from each periodof Dalí's life, from his first artistic experiences (impressionism,futurism, cubism, etc.) and surrealist creations, right up to thefinal works from the end of his life.For the last 21 years, the late-night opening hours in August offera different way of seeing the museum collections.A visit to the Theatre-Museum affords an ideal opportunity todiscover the unique, enthralling world of Salvador Dalí.

Leave Figueres by taking the C-260 towards Castelló d'Empúries and Roses.Before reaching Roses, turn off onto the GI-614 to Cadaqués.

Surrounded by outstanding landscapes and some of the finest,most peaceful coves along the Costa Brava, Cadaqués has becomea major art centre over the years due to the presence of avant-garde painters and sculptors who have resided or spent timehere, following the traces of Salvador Dalí, whose name is foreverlinked to the town. Take the time to stroll up and down the steep,narrow streets and visit the church of Santa Maria. There is anArt Museum in the town centre and several Modernist houses.Sculptures by Josep Llimona, the well-known Catalan post-Romantic and Modernist sculptor whose work straddled the 19thand 20th centuries, can be seen on some of the vaults in thelocal cemetery. Cadaqués is an ideal place to overnight andsample the nightlife of the town.

CADAQUÉS3

One kilometre north of Cadaqués there is a small bay enclosingone of the prettiest coves in the area. This is Portlligat, whereDalí bought up a row of fishermen's houses in which he establishedhis residence and studio. The resulting labyrinthine structurecontaining furniture and personal effects, and Dalí's library andworkshop, is yet another masterpiece created by the artist.Visits by appointment only. Please ring 972 251 015.

PORTLLIGAT4

CAP DE CREUS5

Cap de Creus Natural Park is the main land-and-sea park inCatalonia, with its 450 million year old rocky surface, erodedover the centuries by the famous tramuntana north wind into arugged coastline of great beauty. Salvador Dalí drew endlessinspiration from these landscapes. The Cap de Creus Natural Parktourist information offices are located in the impressiveRomanesque monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes, near the townof El Port de la Selva.In Cap de Creus lighthouse, the new exhibition space has displayson the flora, fauna and other assets of the park.

Go back to Figueres and take the N-II, then the C-252 and finally the C-31towards La Bisbal d'Empordà, crossing Alt Empordà county from north tosouth and driving along an inland road that goes through Torroella de Fluvià,Viladamat, Verges and Parlavà. At Parlavà, take the GI-643 past Rupià untilyou reach the main road to Girona. Follow the indications to La Pera, andfrom there to nearby Púbol Castle.

PÚBOL6

Púbol Castle was a gift from Dalí to his wife Gala who, accordingto legend, refused Dalí access without her expressly writtenpermission. Art collections, the couple's famous Cadillac, Gala'sprivate apartments and a collection of her haute couture gownsare on display to the public. Visitors can also see the crypt whereDalí's wife and muse is buried, as well as the garden containingsculptures of stylised elephants and a Wagnerian fountain.

From Púbol, take the C-66 towards La Bisbal, turning off at Corçà along theGIV-6702 to go up to the sanctuary of Mare de Déu dels Àngels.

SANCTUARY OF MARE DE DÉU DELS ÀNGELS7

Salvador Dalí and Gala were married in this sanctuary which,although devoid of any particular cultural or architectural interest,affords spectacular panoramic views over most of the provinceof Girona.

From Portlligat we drive on towards Cap de Creus and view the landscapethat inspired the works of Salvador Dalí.From Cadaqués, a coastal walk affording vistas of the shoreline with its littlecoves brings us up to Cap de Creus lighthouse in just over an hour. Highlyrecommended.

Routedescription

Listed as an Asset of National Interest, the town of Hostalric comprisesone of the major monumental sites of medieval Catalonia. It was alsoan important military fortress in the Modern Age. The 13th-century FraresTower is the oldest of its kind in the area, and one of the most emblematicmonuments in the town. Standing at 33 metres, it is also the highest ofthe towers, with a lookout point offering an unsurpassable view of thetown. The Barcelona Gate is one of the accesses to the walled enclosure,of which ten towers and 600 metres of defence wall are conserved. Arecommended itinerary is to follow the parapet walk along the walls untilreaching the noble Ararà Tower. The castle, the Town Hall (a formerfriary), the Convent Tower and exhibition room, and El Relliguer caveshould not be missed. Hostalric Castle has a long military history. Itplayed a key role in the Peninsular War, one of the major war episodesexisting in popular memory. Documentation from 1145 bears witness toa fortress standing on the same site, but most of the building we seetoday dates from reconstruction works carried out in the late 18thcentury. Guided tours, e-routes and “key to the town” visits are available,for all of which it is necessary to contact the Tourism Office.

Take the C-35 towards Sant Celoni, turning off 8 km down the road along the GI-552to Breda. A couple of kilometres after Breda, take a track leading to Montsoriu Castle.

CASTLESand RAMPARTSFactsheet

CULTURAL HERITAGEHistorical events prompted the construction ofdefence ramparts and castles in many towns andvillages of the Girona area, leaving behind a richcultural heritage spanning the centuries.

ROUTE CHARACTERISTICSLineal route running from south to north.


STARTING POINTHostalric, just off the AP-7 and the C-35.


Our route takes us to towns with a past. We will be visitingpicturesque castles of great historical interest, many now in ruins,constructed at a time when these lands marked the borderbetween Moorish and Christian zones. The road then leads on tovisit fortresses and ramparts that have withstood the ravages oftime, and is thus ideal complement to the Medieval Towns andVillages Route (Route 10).However, there are many other lesser known castles and rampartsin other towns that for reasons of space are not included on thisroute. Further information is available in Tourist Offices.

HOSTALRIC1

Montsoriu is one of the finest medieval castles in Catalonia, seatof the viscounts of Girona-Cabrera, pre-eminent dynasty underthe Crown of Aragon. Thirteenth-century chronicler Bernat Desclotcalled Montsoriu “one of the most beautiful and noble in theworld”. The monumental site is made up of three walled enclosures,constructed between the 10th and the 15th centuries, with a totalperimeter length of 500 metres. The castle is currently underrenovation.

Continue on the GI-552 until Arbúcies, in the heart of the Montseny massif (see Route 8), Natural Parkand UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. In La Gabella - Montseny Ethnology Museum, there is a whole roomwith displays on Montsoriu Castle. There is also an interesting Santiago Rusiñol route with panels showingeight of the landscapes that inspired the painter between 1927 and 1930. Drive on up to the C-25, leadingto Sant Hilari Sacalm, with the ruins of Solterra Castle. Further on, in Santa Coloma de Farners, we find FarnersCastle, an 11th-century possession of the counts of Barcelona, built on a trapezoid floor plan with oneremaining 12-meter high cylindrical tower over 8 meters in diameter. A track four kilometres long leadsup to the castle from Sant Salvador Park. In order to fully appreciate the beautiful countryside, it isrecommended to do this stretch on foot. Shortly after, on the road to Anglès, there is a turnoff to thehamlet of Brunyola, site of a castle of the same name, dating from 1106. Three of the four original towersare still standing, one of which is now the church bell tower and town hall. Turn around and go back tothe C-25 to Cassà de la Selva, from where the C-65 leads on to Llagostera, with a signposted walk alongthe old ramparts. Take the GI-681 to the coast until Tossa de Mar.

MONTSORIU AND OTHER CASTLES IN LA SELVA COUNTY2

Girona

Hostalric

Tossa de Mar

la Bisbald'Empordà

Figueres

Torroellade Montgrí

Montsoriu Castle

Castell d'Aro

Begur

Calonge

la Jonquera

Roses

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The route brings us around the city centre and it is recommended totake a guided visit. Information is available at the Tourist Office on theRambla and also at the Punt de Benvinguda (Tel. 972 211 678), oppositethe Devesa park, near a municipal car park and the law courts.However, it is also pleasant to wander up and down the narrow streetsand to let yourself get carried away by the magic of the Old Town,where history and culture, restaurants and bars, shopping opportunities...are all there for you to enjoy. What we propose here is not so much aroute as an invitation to visit the main points of interest in the city.

The Call or Jewish quarterThe former Jewish quarter is one of the best conserved in WesternEurope. The labyrinthine stone structure of the streets helped the quarterto withstand the ravages of time and, for this reason, recent renovationworks have been able to faithfully reproduce its age of splendour.The nerve centre of the quarter is Carrer de la Força (formerlythe Roman Via Augusta), which slopes down from the steps ofthe Cathedral to the Plaça del Correu Vell. It was here that a gatewas erected in the 14th century to enclose the quarter. The streetis at the very hub of the Old Town and is hard to miss, as it meetsthe Quatre Cantons, at the end of the Rambla and CarrerArgenteria, and Carreras Peralta, Cort Reial and Carrer Ciutadans(ending with the City Hall on Plaça del Vi).It is thought that there were three synagogues in Girona. The firstwas situated between the Cathedral and the Bishop's Palace. Thesecond, dating from the 13th century, occupied a site opposite thesteps of La Pera at no. 23 Carrer de la Força. The last synagogue wassituated on Carrer Sant Llorenç, centre of the Jewish quarter in the15th century. This street, however, was closed off to the public until1975. Access to the last synagogue was through courtyards andarchways, and the same building is now known as Bonastruc Ça PortaCentre, with a new entrance at no. 8 Carrer de la Força. Here in theMuseum of Jewish History visitors can learn about the history of theJewish communities in medieval Catalonia. A major collection of

Rediscovering theJEWISH WORLDFactsheet

CULTURAL HERITAGEVisit Girona and Besalú with their rich historic andcultural heritage going back to the times when majorJewish communities lived in this area. Girona is amember city of the Spanish Network of Jewish Cities-Paths of Sepharad. Besalú is an associate town.

ROUTE CHARACTERISTICSUrban route, ideal for leisurely strolls over a fewdays around Girona city and nearby Besalú.




The Jewish community in Girona played a fundamental role inthe development of the city between the 9th and the 15thcenturies. The Call, or Jewish quarter, is a Catalan word derivingfrom the Latin callis meaning “street”. The Girona Call is situatedin the heart of the Old Town, a maze of narrow streets and alleysstill bearing traces of the Jewish community that lived here for600 years.We will visit the Museum of Jewish History and the main historicbuildings in the city, mostly located in the area surrounding theJewish quarter. The nearby town of Besalú has a historic medievalcentre that is among the best conserved in Catalonia and aninteresting Jewish quarter with a mikvah, or Jewish ritual baths,unique in Europe.

GIRONA1

Routedescription

Girona

Besalú


GI-660 to La Bisbal, across the spectacular countryside of theGavarres massif, a former cork production area.La Bisbal is one of the main pottery centres in the whole ofSpain, with many workshops and retail shops to be explored atleisure. Terracotta Museum is located in an old ceramic factory,where we can follow the entire pottery production process aswell as admire the architecture of the building itself.

Going back across the Gavarres, take the GI-664 to Cassà de la Selva, a town withmany cork factories. Visit Parc Art, with over 100 contemporary sculptures pleasantlydisplayed in a large park.Take the C-65 to Quart, another long-standing pottery town, with many shops sellingartisan and industrial ceramics.Skirting Girona city, take the N-II to Sant Julià de Ramis and then to Celrà on theright, where the Town Hall and cultural centre are located in the former Pagansfactory, open to the public. Going back towards Girona, on the right hand side ofthe main road is Sarrià de Ter, a town closely linked to the paper industry.

PALAFRUGELL - PALAMÓS - LA BISBALD'EMPORDÀ

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Peralada (Route 10) has an important Wine Museum, located insidethe museum at Peralada Castle, displaying 14th-century objects relatedto viticulture. The town also boasts the only wine-spa in Spain.From here we can tour around the D.O. Empordà-Costa Bravawine-producing areas (Tel. 972 507 513). Some wine cellars areopen to the public, for example Oliveda at Capmany, but usuallyonly by appointment. Some places run guided visits around thevineyards. The route now traces a rough square along the N-260,GI-602 and E-15 and some local roads, passing through Vilajuïga,Garriguella, Espolla, Capmany and Cabanes villages andencompassing the classic Mediterranean agricultural trilogy ofvineyards, wheat fields and olive groves. Working olive oil pressescan also be seen here from December to February.

From the C-260 we reach Castelló d'Empúries (see Route 10), with Farinera Eco-museum, sole remaining flourmill from the three 14th-century mills in the town,where we can see how the original machinery worked. The Curia-Prison is also wortha visit for its display on the life of medieval troubadours.We reach Torroella de Fluvià on the GIV-6216 and from there the C-31 brings us toTorroella de Montgrí and Pals. A short detour along the GI-651 will take us to Palau-sator, where there is a small Rural Museum displaying farm tools and machinery.At Pals (see Route 10), rice is still cultivated on reclaimed wetlands and a rice mill andshop are open to the public. The route continues on to Palafrugell.

PERALADA AND THE D.O. EMPORDÀ-COSTA BRAVA4

ALTERNATIVE ROUTE

From Girona go southwards along the AP-7/E-15 or the N-II until youreach Hostalric and Breda. The latter (see Route 1) is another mainpottery centre with many shops, craft workers and industrial ceramicmanufacturers. Els Forns Cultural Centre is actually situated in an oldpottery kiln. We are now in the heart of the Montseny Natural Park, aUNESCO biosphere reserve.Continue on to Arbúcies, where we can visit La Gabella-MontsenyEthnology Museum, one of the most important of its kind in Catalonia.Displays on the interaction of man with the environment include a 12projector multi-vision space on local legends and 14 rooms dedicatedto the evolution of human inhabitation of the Montseny massif fromearliest times to industrialisation. We now go back to Hostalric and thenon to Sils along the GIV-5121, passing the Salvador Claret AutomobileCollection with over 300 chronologically displayed vehicles includingvelocipedes, bicycles, motorbikes, automobiles and aviation material.Take the C-63 to the tourist resort of Lloret de Mar, where Can GarrigaMaritime Museum is located in a colonial-style house, with a largecollection of model ships among other objects. From Lloret, go alongthe coastal GI-682 to Tossa de Mar (see Route 9) and visit theMediterranean Lighthouse Interpretative Centre, situated in the oldlighthouse at the top of the emblematic old town. A new space revealsthe fascinating world of the lighthouse and lighthouse keepers withdisplays on history and architecture, and also on the lighthouse as asource of inspiration for literature and the cinema.

From Tossa de Mar take the road back to Girona.

At Palafrugell we find the Cork Museum with displays showingobjects related to cork manufacture, descriptions of the life ofthe cork workers and the scale of the industry in this area. Whilein Palafrugell, visit the Josep Pla Foundation in the house wherethe writer was born. We then take the C-66 to Palamós, one ofthe main Catalan fishing ports, preferably in the late afternoonto coincide with the arrival of the fishing boats and the daily fishauction in the harbour. The Fish Space in the harbour area aimsto provide information on the sustainability and gastronomy ofsea produce, and to promote the use of certain lesser-valuedspecies of high culinary quality. There is also a Fishing Museum,the only one of its kind in the whole Mediterranean area, withfascinating insights on the relationship between man and thesea.We leave Palamós and take the C-256 to Calonge and then the

This route can also be combined with routes 1, 2, 3, 4, 7, 9, 10, 11 and 12.

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tombstones with Hebrew inscriptions from the Jewish cemetery onMontjuïc is on permanent display. The Nahmanides Institute forJewish Studies is also here with library, research and educationalfacilities. Carrer Claveria marks the eastern boundary of the Jewishquarter while the northern boundary is Carrer de Cúndaro, at theend of which was situated the medieval Jewish marketplace.

Cathedral (11th-18th centuries)The Cathedral of Girona has the widest Gothic nave in the world, theconstruction of which gave rise to a famous controversy between theCathedral architects and the archbishop of the time. Other outstandingfeatures include the cloister and the old Romanesque tower thatbuttresses the later Gothic building. Valuable art works are conservedin the interior, including the 10th-century Beatus and the well-known11th-century Creation Tapestry, a masterpiece of Romanesque textile art.

Arab Baths (12th century)A Romanesque-style building imitating the structure of old Muslim baths.

Church of Sant Felix (13th-16th centuries)The church was constructed alongside the old city ramparts, witha fortified chevet and a Gothic nave over a Romanesque structure.Valuable art works are conserved in the interior, such as theReclining Christ by Mestre Aloi, a masterpiece of Catalan Gothicart. The 17th-century west façade is Baroque. Only one of thetwo projected towers was constructed.

Monastery of Sant Pere de Galligants (11th-12th centuries)Former Benedictine monastery, nowadays the Archaeology Museum.The monumentality of the temple and its cloister make this one ofthe finest examples of Catalan Romanesque architecture.

MuseumsThe city of Girona has an exceptional cultural heritage and a visit tothe museums is the best way to complement many of the routes in thiscatalogue. In addition to the above-mentioned museums, special noteshould be made of the City History Museum, the Art Museum, theArchaeology Museum of Catalonia. The Cinema Museum, based onthe private collection of local film maker Tomàs Mallol, has an educationaldisplay of objects illustrating the history of the moving image.The M5 entrance ticket gives discount access to five museums in Girona.

Other places of interestIn Girona city, you cannot miss seeing the houses and bridges on theRiver Onyar. The riverside houses were built leaning up against thecity walls at the end of the Middle Ages. Superb views can be seen fromthe bridges, the most famous of which are the Pont de Pedra (StoneBridge). and the Pont de Ferro (Iron Bridge) designed by the GustaveEiffel studio. The Rambla de la Llibertat is one of the emblematic

streets of the city, with its archways, terraces and shops. More shopscan be found on the other side of the river in Carrer de Santa Claraand in the Eixample. Enjoy the Passeig de la Muralla walk along thetop of the city walls and the large green zone of the Devesa Park.

Take the C-66 to Banyoles and Besalú.

BESALÚ2

The medieval town of Besalú, former seat of the counts of the samename, is a magnificent historic-artistic site that is included on severalroutes (Routes 1, 2, 8, 10 and 12). The town grew up around Besalúcastle, dating from the 10th century. The strategic situation betweenthe Rivers Fluvià and Capellades, on the boundary of three counties,granted Besalú an important role in the history of Catalonia.

The Jewish mikvah (12th century)The mikvah or Jewish ritual bathhouse in Besalú is the only oneof its kind discovered in the Iberian Peninsula and one of the fewknown in Europe. The underground mikvah, accessed by stonesteps, is located in a typical 12th-century stone-built Romanesquehouse with a barrel vault. In the Middle Ages, the Jewish communityused the baths to fulfil the religious rite of total immersion.

A historic-artistic siteIn Besalú, take a stroll around the old streets and absorb the history ofthe town. Noteworthy buildings include the old church of the 12th-centurymonastery of Sant Pere; the 12th-century church of Sant Vicenç withits Gothic side chapel; the façade of the 12th-century church hospital ofSant Julià; Casa Cornellà, a good example of 12th-century Romanesquearchitecture; and the Gothic room of the Royal Curia. The Romanesquebridge over the River Fluvià is the most outstanding sight in Besalú.To complete the route, take the N-260 from Besalú to Figueres and go on towards Llançà untilthe turnoff to Vilajuïga.The history of this town goes back to the 10th century, when it was documented as belonging tothe monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes (see Route 1). The town was closely linked to the Counts ofEmpúries and Quermançó castle and its name clearly signifies “Jewish town” or “town of the Jews”.Stroll around the old town centre and see the church of Sant Feliu, of Romanesque origin. This is a goodstarting point for several different routes: the Dolmen Route, the Wine Route and the Water Route.

This route can be combined with routes 1, 2, 8, 10, 11 and 12.

CASTELLÓ D’EMPÚRIES3

We can finish by driving southwards for ten kilometres for a visit toCastelló d'Empúries (see Route 10), medieval seat of the Counts ofEmpúries with its impressive church and Jewish quarter which oncehad one of the highest populations in medieval Catalonia. Severalfunerary steles are conserved here and the structure of the NewSynagogue can still be seen on Carrer de les Peixateries Velles.

Alongside its cultural heritage (see Routes 1, 2,4 and 10), Gironaalso has an interesting industrial past, as witnessed by theModernist-style Farinera Teixidor, a former flourmill that todayhouses the offices of El Punt newspaper. Carrer de la Sèquia takesits name from a former industrial canal. We also recommend avisit to the Cinema Museum, which features displays on the earlyhistory of the seventh art.

Leave the city on the N-141 to Salt.

INDUSTRIAL andCRAFTWORK heritage

Olot (see Route 2) is the capital of the Garrotxa volcanic zone.The city has a long artistic tradition, as witnessed by the19thcentury Olot School of Landscape Painting, and specialisesin artisan production of Nativity crib figures and religious images.The Museum of Saints, displaying original works by well-knownsculptors, is located in one of these workshops.Recommended places to visit include the Garrotxa CountyMuseum, the Volcano Museum and Can Trincheria Manor HouseMuseum.

Take the A-26 to Castellfollit de la Roca with its impressive basalt cliff andsmall Sausage Museum, passing Besalú (see Routes 1, 4 and 10) and Figueres(see Routes 2 and 3), where we can visit the Empordà Technical Museum andthe Toy Museum of Catalonia. Follow the N-260 until the turnoff to Peralada.

GIRONA1

Routedescription

Girona

Factsheet

CULTURAL HERITAGEDiscover the rich craftwork heritage and some ofthe more traditional industries along this route,which leads us through past and present across thelength and breadth of the counties of Girona, fromthe Pyrenees to the Costa Brava.

ROUTE CHARACTERISTICSCircular route with different stretches and onealternative route.

MAIN ROUTEApproximately 270 kmAlternative route: Approximately 170 km

STARTING POINTGirona. However, given the different stretches visitedalong the route, Figueres, Olot, La Bisbal d'Empordàand Tossa de Mar are also good starting points.

In the centre of the town of Salt, we visit the Water Museum,located in an old fortified farmhouse with a 12th-century tower,featuring displays on the importance of the River Ter for industrialactivity, as textile and paper factories, ironworks, ice wells,flourmills and so on. From Salt, we can take the Architecture ofWater hiking trail to Bescanó, taking in a former public wash-house at Salt, Monar canal, Pilastra dam, the Bescanó barge, twopower plants, and an ice well at Vilanna.

Follow the N-141 to Anglès, then go up the C-63 towards Olot. At Les Preses,just before Olot, stop off to visit Pedra Tosca Park situated in a landscapeformed by volcanic eruptions 11,000 years ago and see the old crop fields,tracks and dry stone huts constructed for survival in the harsh volcanicterritory. After that, continue on to Olot.

SALT AND THE ARCHITECTURE OF WATER2

Olot

Peralada

PalafrugellLa Bisbald’Empordà

Palamós

OLOT3

Figueres Castellód’empúries


Hostalric

ArbúciesSils

Salt

Breda


This route enables us to discover a host of traditional crafts andactivities: seafaring trades such as fishing and lighthouse keeping;rural occupations such as farming, viticulture and oil producing;pottery-making in three of the main ceramic centres of Catalonia;water and its role in industry; cork production and the Gavarresforests; artisan-made religious images and Nativity crib figures...Driving through magnificent countryside, the route takes in aseries of little museums, pottery centres and vestiges of theindustrial history of the area, thus illustrating the links betweenthe land and its inhabitants.

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The origins of the town are closely linked to Count Guifré el Pelós(840-897) and the Benedictine monastery of Santa Maria, whichplayed a major role in the history of Catalonia as a centre ofpolitical, religious, cultural and economic power.

In 888 a new monastery was dedicated to Saint Mary in thepresence of Count Guifré and his spouse Guinedell. The mostimportant feature is the 12th century portal, one of the majorexamples of Romanesque art in the world. One of the highlightsfor visitors to the monastery is the tomb of Count Guifré el Pelós,to whom legends attribute the origin of the four red stripes onthe heraldic shield of Catalonia.

An insight into the importance of the monastery can be gainedfrom a visit to Scriptorium, a permanent exhibition on the worldof the medieval copyists, illuminators and miniaturists. It isinteresting to know that the world famous Farfa and Rodes biblescame from the scriptorium in this monastery.

Take the C-26 for 10 km to Sant Joan de les Abadesses, following the courseof the River Ter.

The SPIRIT ofFEUDAL CATALONIAFactsheet

CULTURAL HERITAGEVisit two Romanesque monasteries of greatimportance in the history of Catalonia and follow thefootsteps of the legendary Count Arnau, one of themost emblematic characters in Catalan historiography.The route goes through some beautiful countryside.

ROUTE CHARACTERISTICSCircular route with several optional foot trails.

MAIN ROUTE82 km

STARTING POINTRipoll


The Romanesque monasteries of Santa Maria de Ripoll and SantJoan de les Abadesses, situated in Ripollès county in Pirineu deGirona, played a major role in the shaping of Catalonia. Thesemountainous lands gave rise to many legends, of which the mostwidespread all over Catalonia recounts the exploits of the infamousCount Arnau, whose spirit has haunted the area after a lifetimespent ill-treating his vassals, seducing the village maidens andcheating his soldiers of their rightful pay. The route leads on intothe age-old town of Gombrèn, where we can visit MataplanaCastle and a museum dedicated to the legendary figure of CountArnau.

RIPOLL1

Routedescription

Girona


Vallfogona de Ripollès

Campdevànol

Gombrèn

Montgrony

Ripoll

interest are the Romanesque church of Sant Cebrià, with a notablefaçade and wrought ironwork on the portal, the medieval bridgeand the castle, now in ruins. In the little hamlet of Centenys, wefind a good example of rural Romanesque architecture in thechurch of Sant Iscle.

Take the GI-554 towards Bàscara, stopping at Vilert with its 9th-century church of SantaMaria, chapel of Sant Esteve and Les Caselles tower. In Orfes, sights include the 12th-century (modified in the 18th century) church of Santa Maria and several houses of historicaland architectural interest. Now go along the GI-554 until the GIV-5131 and head towardsGalliners, where there are some interesting houses and a square of some note.Go along the GIV-5132 towards Vilavenut, turning off to Espasens. The late 11th-century Romanesquechurch of Santa Caterina was restored by local people in the area. We now make another detourto Ollers, a small hamlet with a church dating from the 11th century. In Vilavenut, there is anotherRomanesque church that has been subjected to various transformations over the years.

SANT MIQUEL DE CAMPMAJOR4

The main point of interest in this village is the church, originally Romanesquebut later modified, with a central nave flanked by lateral aisles and anapse decorated with Lombard elements. Further along the GIV-5244 wefind the 12th or 13th century Old Bridge, a castle, and Molí de Roca, amedieval flour mill. At the end of a forest track there is the desertedvillage of Briolf, with a Romanesque church and fortified tower. Returningto the road, we reach Collell sanctuary, setting of Soldiers of Salamis writtenby Javier Cercas and later made into a film of the same name. The booknarrates a series of episodes from the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939) thattook place in the woods of Pla de l'Estany county. There are three hikingtrails known as the “Soldados de Salamina” routes, two of which go throughthe area surrounding Sant Miquel de Campmajor.

Fontcoberta is famous for the Nativity tableaux performed everyyear at Christmas. Places of interest include the large church ofSant Feliu with its high nave and square bell tower of LombardRomanesque origin, and also the Town Hall, situated nearby. Inthe hamlet of La Farrés, we find Borrella tower, an example ofa fortified house. Can Jan Ethnography Museum has a remarkablecollection of clocks, containing restored French timepieces andother works by master clockmaker Josep Bofill. Opening hours:Tuesday-Friday, 5-8 pm; Sundays and holidays, 11 am-1 pm.

From Fontcoberta go back to Banyoles, drive round the lake past Porqueres (seeRoute 1) and take the GI-524 towards Mieres. After 25.5 km turn off to the Boscde Can Ginebreda, a curious open-air park containing sculptures with erotic themes.Continue on to Sant Martí de Campmajor and on up to Sant Miquel de Campmajor.

FONTCOBERTA3

This route can be combined with routes 1, 8, 10, 11 and 12.

SANTA PAU AND THE VOLCANOES OF GARROTXA COUNTY5

Santa Pau is one of the most significant historical sites in Girona,clustered around the 13th-14th-century castle and the porticoedMain Square. The 15th-century Gothic-style church has a singlenave and a square bell tower. Walk up through the narrow streetswith their interesting old houses until Portal del Mar or Sea Gate,from where there is a beautiful view over Santa Pau valley. Go upto the sanctuaries at Els Arcs and La Cot for a view of some of thevolcano cones in the Natural Park of the Garrotxa Volcanic Area.

Follow the GI-524 towards Olot until Can Serra car park, starting point for visiting the well-knownFageda d'en Jorda beech wood, celebrated by poets as Joan Maragall and source of inspiration formembers of the Olot School of Landscape Painters. Here you will find an information point forthe Natural Park and, as in this whole area, various well-signposted walking trails. The VolcanoMuseum in nearby Olot is the place to learn more about the volcanoes. From Olot, take the C-152following the course of the River Fluvià into La Vall d'en Bas..

LA VALL D'EN BAS6

The name La Vall d'en Bas designates a municipal area of eight villagessituated along the axis of the C-152 and the C-153. On the GIP-5226, thefirst of these villages is Sant Privat d'en Bas with square, church andcemetery making up the old town. Higher up there is the waterfall on theRiver Sallent and Olletes chapel. At Puigpardines we find the church(formerly a monastery) of Santa Maria, and in the same village there isalso a local country produce shop. Now take the GIP-5273 to Joanetes,with its Romanesque church and 35 metre high waterfall. This is a startingpoint for excursions and hiking trails to Puigsacalm mountain (1515 metres)and other places. Sant Esteve d'en Bas has a 12th-century Romanesquechurch with an interesting group of stone sculptures of Christ in Majesty,a Romanesque bridge at La Cau and La Rectoria house-museum. ElsHostalets d'en Bas is famous for the balconies on Carrer Teixeda (listedas a Historical-Artistic Monument), unique in Catalonia. There is anotherRomanesque bridge here, a monument to the farming community anda monolith (another Historical-Artistic Site).

Go back to Sant Esteve d'en Bas to take the C-63 to Les Planes d'Hostoles (from where hikingtrails lead to Hostoles Castle among other places) in order to get onto the GI-531. Take a detourto Sant Aniol de Finestres, another good starting point for hikers, and see the Romanesquechurches and hermitages in the area. Go back along the GI-531 through Llémena Valley (seeRoute 1) until Girona, and from Girona back to Banyoles.

Go back to Sant Martí de Campmajor with its 9th-century Romanesque church.From there continue on the GIV-5246 to Falgons, with a modified Romanesquechurch enlarged in the 18th century and a square castle with reinforcementtowers, dating from the year 1126. Now go back to the main road to Mieresand then on to Santa Pau.

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The lakeside town of Banyoles has a long history. The town grew upin the shadow of the monastery of Sant Esteve, which still conservesits original late Gothic portal. However, the church and cloister thatwe see today date mainly from the 18th century. In the interior thereis the 15th-century chest of Sant Martirià and an altarpiece from thesame century. Interesting civil and religious buildings include: the13th-century porticoed Main Square, where the weekly market is heldevery Wednesday; the ramparts; Plaça del Teatre; Carrer de laParaireria; the 14th-century Pia Almoina; the Llotja del Tint (DyeMarket) and the gothic church of Santa Maria dels Turers. The DarderMuseum and the Archaeology Museum are both worth a visit, as isthe lakeside La Draga Neolithic Park.Banyoles Lake is a major leisure area around which life in thetown revolves. Banyoles and Pla de l'Estany county are officialSports Tourism Destinations for still water rowing and canoeing,cycling, mountain biking, swimming and triathlon. Nature loverscan also find lakeside bird watching lookouts as well as flora andfauna routes through this exceptional countryside.

Take the GIP-5121 to Esponellà.

Towns and villages inPLA DE L'ESTANYand LA VALL D'EN BASFactsheet

CULTURAL HERITAGEThe route takes us around some of the towns andvillages in Pla de l'Estany county, crosses the NaturalPark of the Garrotxa Volcanic Area and ends in LaVall d'en Bas. The road goes through places of greatnatural, cultural and historical interest where theessence of Catalan rural life is still conserved.

ROUTE CHARACTERISTICSCircular route which can be combined with hikingtrails in the area: the “Soldados de Salamina” routesin Pla de l'Estany county and other trails throughthe Natural Park of the Garrotxa Volcanic Area andLa Vall d'en Bas.


STARTING POINTBanyoles


This route brings us into some of the most delightful and leastwell-known areas of Pla de l'Estany and Garrotxa counties, takingin many towns and villages with a strong Romanesque culturalheritage. However, there are also other places of interest suchas old castles, a Clock Museum and a curious sculpture park, allsituated in undeniably beautiful countryside. A trip around thevolcanoes in the Natural Park of the Garrotxa Volcanic Area isan absolute must on this route. Restaurants serving traditionaldishes and shops selling local country produce are an addedattraction in the area.

BANYOLES1

Routedescription

Girona

Banyoles

Cornellà del TerriPalol de Revardit

Camós

Sant Miquelde Campmajor

Esponellà is a small country village where the main points of

ESPONELLÀ2

FalgonsSanta Pau

Hostaletsd’en Bas

La Valld’en Bas

Like Ripoll, the history of the town of Sant Joan de les Abadessesis closely linked to that of its monastery, also founded by CountGuifré el Pelós, who placed his daughter Emma as abbess of theBenedictine community. The monastery houses a group ofsculptures composed of seven life-sized figures, considered aunique example of the 13th-century transition period fromRomanesque to Gothic-style sculpture. A stroll around the towncentre is highly recommended to see a rare example of medievaltown planning and interesting sights such as the Old Bridge, theremains of the ramparts and the porticoed Main Squaresurrounded by baroque-style buildings. A large market is held onthe square every week.

Go along the GI-521 over the Collada de Sentigosa pass until the N-260, andfrom there head towards Vallfogona de Ripollès.

SANT JOAN DE LES ABADESSES2

Situated in a wooded, mountain area of great natural beauty,Vallfogona boasts an interesting cultural heritage that includesLa Sala Castle, with a rectangular floor plan and a seven-storiedtower; the church of Mare de Déu del Pòpul, which still conservessome Romanesque features; a very well conserved medievalcentre with a noteworthy Main Square and surrounding streetswith carefully restored 17th- and 18th-century houses; the 14th-century medieval bridge, and the church of Sant Julià deVallfogona, parts of which date back to the 12th century.

Go back to Ripoll on the N-260 and continue along the N-152 towards Ribesde Freser, stopping at Campdevànol on the way.

VALLFOGONA DE RIPOLLÈS3

Right beside the main road just beyond Campdevànol we find aRomanesque bridge popularly known as Pont d'en Cabreta (Bridgeof the Little Goat), a name that also designates the figure of thedevil. According to the legend, Count Arnau used this bridge tocross the River Freser on the road between Campdevànol andRibes de Freser. Go back into Campdevànol and visit theRomanesque church of Sant Pere d'Auira.

Take the GI-401 to Gombrèn and 2.5 km after the village turn right toMataplana Castle.

CAMPDEVÀNOL4

GOMBRÈN - MATAPLANA CASTLE5

Mataplana Castle was a Romanesque-style fortified manor-palaceused less as a fortress than as a residence and centre oftroubadour culture in the 12th and 13th centuries. The Mataplanalineage played an important role in forging the national identityof Catalonia and Andorra.Beside the castle there is a chapel and a hamlet where fivefamilies lived up until the 14th century. This was the residence ofCount Artau de Pallars, often mistakenly identified with CountArnau. It is now thought that Count Arnau never really existed,but his legend so widespread that the Mataplana Castle is popularlybelieved to have been his mansion. It is said that Count Arnaudid not pay his soldiers, that he consorted with the nuns in SantJoan de les Abadesses and that he made pacts with the devil…and for all of which deeds his restless spirit is condemned towander eternally through these lands.

Go down the track until you see signposts for Montgrony sanctuary.

MONTGRONY SANCTUARY6

The Romanesque sanctuary of Montgrony dates from the late9th century and today is a hostel for visitors. Beside the hostelare the steps that Count Arnau ordered his serfs to carve out ofthe living rock, and then refused to pay them the agreed price.There is also the Romanesque church of Sant Pere, consecratedin 1138. The spot has lovely panoramic views over the surroundingcountryside.

Go back to Gombrèn.

GOMBRÈN7

In Gombrèn we can visit the Count Arnau Museum, which is infact the municipal museum containing information on thearchaeology and history of the town and castle, findings fromthe excavations at Mataplana, as well as scale models and drawingsshowing the development of the castle and life within its walls.The museum also contains panels on the mythology and literaturesurrounding the legend of Count Arnau.

This route can be combined with routes 1, 2 and 12.

Vall deLlémena

6

22 23

Puigcerdà was founded in 1170 and is now the capital of Cerdanyacounty and one of the main towns in the Pyrenees. As a historicaland cultural centre with many shopping and leisure facilities, theplace is very much worth a visit. Points of interest include thebell tower of the church of Santa Maria, the old convent of SantDomènec, the porticoed Cabrinetty Square, and several housesaround the lake in Schierbeck Park.

Take the N-154 to Llívia, an enclave of Catalonia completely surrounded byFrench territory.

The CERDANYA stretchof the road to SANTIAGOFactsheet

CULTURAL HERITAGEThis route follows one of the great European CulturalItineraries: the pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela(Galicia) as it goes through Cerdanya county. Theroute is not very long but visitors can also opt topark their car and walk along a stretch of the way.


ITINERARY PRINCIPAL60 km

STARTING POINTPuigcerdà


After the remains of Saint James the Apostle (Santiago) werefound in 9th-century Galicia, a major pilgrimage rapidly developed.The European pilgrims' routes converged at the Pyrenees, whereNavarra and Aragon were the two principal points of entry.However, apart from the main routes, there were also othersecondary paths, one of which entered Catalonia over the Perxaand the Pimorent passes with a stop at the hermitage of SantJaume de Rigolisa, in Puigcerdà. The path crossed Cerdanyacounty and the Pyrenees until reaching Jaca where it joined upwith the main pilgrims' way. This route combines magnificentviews with various places of historical and cultural interest, mainlychurches, hermitages and pilgrims' hospitals.

PUIGCERDÀ1

Routedescription

Girona

PuigcerdàLlívia

Isòvol

Bolvir

Bellver deCerdanya

Martinet

The old town centre of Llívia, officially classified as a Space ofCultural Interest, is made up of local-style buildings, as for examplethe Rectory, the church of Mare de Déu dels Àngels, the towerof Bernat de So and the Toret cross. However, the most fascinatingplace in the town is undoubtedly the 15th-century pharmacy, oneof the oldest in Europe, containing an interesting library, laboratoryinstruments and prescription books, as well as a series of 19th-century glass jars.

LLÍVIA2

At Ur we find the church of Sant Martí. By driving along the trackto Bolvir de Cerdanya, parallel to today's main road, we areactually following the original Road to Santiago, passing thechurch of Sant Jaume de Rigolisa, the town of Puigcerdà and thebridge of Sant Martí d'Aravó. At Bolvir there is the interestinglittle hermitage of El Remei, with panels providing informationabout the route, and also the church of Santa Cecília. The villagehas long been inhabited: Bronze Age and 2nd-century Iberiansettlements have been found here. In the Middle Ages, Bolvir hadlinks with the monastery of Sant Miquel de Cuixà.

Cross over the main road and take the signposted track on the other sidewhere a sign says “Molí”. The Bolvir - Isòvol path follows the course of theRiver Segre and crosses over the water a couple of times. Should this partprove difficult for vehicles, the only option is to turn back and take the mainroad to the end of this stretch and do it backwards along the wider stretchof track leading out from Isòvol.

UR - BOLVIR DE CERDANYA3

Leaving Bolvir, we pass Saga, with the church of Santa Eugènia;Ger, where there is an old mill, now in private hands; and All, withthe church of Santa Maria. A slight detour brings us to Olopte,with the church of Sant Pere, and then very near Isòvol we cometo the sanctuary of Mare de Déu de Quadres, used as a domushospitalis or travellers' hospice in the 13th and 14th centuries. Theoriginal building was 12th-century Romanesque, as evidenced byarchaeological excavations, but in the 17th century a new churchwas constructed on the site.

BOLVIR DE CERDANYA - SANCTUARY OF SANTAMARIA DE QUADRES - ISÒVOL

4

BELLVER DE CERDANYA5

Before reaching Bellver de Cerdanya, there are several hermitagesand churches in the little hamlets strung out along the GIV-4033between Alp and Bellver: church of Santa Maria (Mosoll-Das)church of Sant Salvador de Predanies (Prats i Sansor) and churchof Sant Andreu (Baltarga, Bellver). Bellver is one of the largestmunicipal districts in Cerdanya county, comprising 21 hamlets.Stroll around the old village centre in Bellver proper, where theremains of the ramparts have been restored.Hikers have many routes to choose from here as Bellver is situatedat one of the entrances to the Cadí-Moixeró Natural Park. By wayof example, there is the Ingla valley trail and also the Camí delsBons Homes that follows the route used by the Cathars as theyfled persecution.However, the main attraction along this stretch of the route isthe large basilica of Santa Maria de Talló, home to an Augustiniancanonical community from the 10th century and the mostmonumental Romanesque construction along the Cerdanyastretch of the Road to Santiago. It is also worth while stoppingto see the magnificent Romanesque church of Santa Eugènia deNerellà, classified as a Historical-Artistic Monument. The churchhas the only complete Lombard bell tower in the county, with aninclination of 1.25 metres that has earned it the nickname of the“Leaning Tower” of the Cerdanya county.

MARTINET6

Following the route, we reach Martinet de Cerdanya, administrativeand shopping centre of the area. The name “martinet” comesfrom an old forge once driven by the waters of the River Segre.Several hamlets, some with interesting churches, make up thismunicipal district.

The pharmacy is part of the Municipal Museum, which alsodisplays a collection of Renaissance-style boxes and otherinteresting pieces, such as a Baroque cordalier, or medicinecabinet. The museum also has a room dedicated to local historyand archaeology.

The route follows the general direction of the N-260, taking frequent detoursalong tracks that are in fact wide enough to accommodate all types of vehicle.We recommend the track from Llívia to Ur, but it is also possible to drivealong the main road towards Puigcerdà and then take the turnoff to Ur.

The track peters out after the sanctuary and leads onto the main road nearIsòvol. Either drive on and rejoin the track at Baltarga, or else go to Alp andtake the GIV-4033 to Bellver de Cerdanya. You can also go straight on toBellver, a large village with a lot to see and a dozen Romanesque churchesdotted around its municipal district.

This route can be combined with routes 1 and 12.

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The origins of the town are closely linked to Count Guifré el Pelós(840-897) and the Benedictine monastery of Santa Maria, whichplayed a major role in the history of Catalonia as a centre ofpolitical, religious, cultural and economic power.

In 888 a new monastery was dedicated to Saint Mary in thepresence of Count Guifré and his spouse Guinedell. The mostimportant feature is the 12th century portal, one of the majorexamples of Romanesque art in the world. One of the highlightsfor visitors to the monastery is the tomb of Count Guifré el Pelós,to whom legends attribute the origin of the four red stripes onthe heraldic shield of Catalonia.

An insight into the importance of the monastery can be gainedfrom a visit to Scriptorium, a permanent exhibition on the worldof the medieval copyists, illuminators and miniaturists. It isinteresting to know that the world famous Farfa and Rodes biblescame from the scriptorium in this monastery.

Take the C-26 for 10 km to Sant Joan de les Abadesses, following the courseof the River Ter.

The SPIRIT ofFEUDAL CATALONIAFactsheet

CULTURAL HERITAGEVisit two Romanesque monasteries of greatimportance in the history of Catalonia and follow thefootsteps of the legendary Count Arnau, one of themost emblematic characters in Catalan historiography.The route goes through some beautiful countryside.

ROUTE CHARACTERISTICSCircular route with several optional foot trails.

MAIN ROUTE82 km

STARTING POINTRipoll


The Romanesque monasteries of Santa Maria de Ripoll and SantJoan de les Abadesses, situated in Ripollès county in Pirineu deGirona, played a major role in the shaping of Catalonia. Thesemountainous lands gave rise to many legends, of which the mostwidespread all over Catalonia recounts the exploits of the infamousCount Arnau, whose spirit has haunted the area after a lifetimespent ill-treating his vassals, seducing the village maidens andcheating his soldiers of their rightful pay. The route leads on intothe age-old town of Gombrèn, where we can visit MataplanaCastle and a museum dedicated to the legendary figure of CountArnau.

RIPOLL1

Routedescription

Girona


Vallfogona de Ripollès

Campdevànol

Gombrèn

Montgrony

Ripoll

interest are the Romanesque church of Sant Cebrià, with a notablefaçade and wrought ironwork on the portal, the medieval bridgeand the castle, now in ruins. In the little hamlet of Centenys, wefind a good example of rural Romanesque architecture in thechurch of Sant Iscle.

Take the GI-554 towards Bàscara, stopping at Vilert with its 9th-century church of SantaMaria, chapel of Sant Esteve and Les Caselles tower. In Orfes, sights include the 12th-century (modified in the 18th century) church of Santa Maria and several houses of historicaland architectural interest. Now go along the GI-554 until the GIV-5131 and head towardsGalliners, where there are some interesting houses and a square of some note.Go along the GIV-5132 towards Vilavenut, turning off to Espasens. The late 11th-century Romanesquechurch of Santa Caterina was restored by local people in the area. We now make another detourto Ollers, a small hamlet with a church dating from the 11th century. In Vilavenut, there is anotherRomanesque church that has been subjected to various transformations over the years.

SANT MIQUEL DE CAMPMAJOR4

The main point of interest in this village is the church, originally Romanesquebut later modified, with a central nave flanked by lateral aisles and anapse decorated with Lombard elements. Further along the GIV-5244 wefind the 12th or 13th century Old Bridge, a castle, and Molí de Roca, amedieval flour mill. At the end of a forest track there is the desertedvillage of Briolf, with a Romanesque church and fortified tower. Returningto the road, we reach Collell sanctuary, setting of Soldiers of Salamis writtenby Javier Cercas and later made into a film of the same name. The booknarrates a series of episodes from the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939) thattook place in the woods of Pla de l'Estany county. There are three hikingtrails known as the “Soldados de Salamina” routes, two of which go throughthe area surrounding Sant Miquel de Campmajor.

Fontcoberta is famous for the Nativity tableaux performed everyyear at Christmas. Places of interest include the large church ofSant Feliu with its high nave and square bell tower of LombardRomanesque origin, and also the Town Hall, situated nearby. Inthe hamlet of La Farrés, we find Borrella tower, an example ofa fortified house. Can Jan Ethnography Museum has a remarkablecollection of clocks, containing restored French timepieces andother works by master clockmaker Josep Bofill. Opening hours:Tuesday-Friday, 5-8 pm; Sundays and holidays, 11 am-1 pm.

From Fontcoberta go back to Banyoles, drive round the lake past Porqueres (seeRoute 1) and take the GI-524 towards Mieres. After 25.5 km turn off to the Boscde Can Ginebreda, a curious open-air park containing sculptures with erotic themes.Continue on to Sant Martí de Campmajor and on up to Sant Miquel de Campmajor.

FONTCOBERTA3

This route can be combined with routes 1, 8, 10, 11 and 12.

SANTA PAU AND THE VOLCANOES OF GARROTXA COUNTY5

Santa Pau is one of the most significant historical sites in Girona,clustered around the 13th-14th-century castle and the porticoedMain Square. The 15th-century Gothic-style church has a singlenave and a square bell tower. Walk up through the narrow streetswith their interesting old houses until Portal del Mar or Sea Gate,from where there is a beautiful view over Santa Pau valley. Go upto the sanctuaries at Els Arcs and La Cot for a view of some of thevolcano cones in the Natural Park of the Garrotxa Volcanic Area.

Follow the GI-524 towards Olot until Can Serra car park, starting point for visiting the well-knownFageda d'en Jorda beech wood, celebrated by poets as Joan Maragall and source of inspiration formembers of the Olot School of Landscape Painters. Here you will find an information point forthe Natural Park and, as in this whole area, various well-signposted walking trails. The VolcanoMuseum in nearby Olot is the place to learn more about the volcanoes. From Olot, take the C-152following the course of the River Fluvià into La Vall d'en Bas..

LA VALL D'EN BAS6

The name La Vall d'en Bas designates a municipal area of eight villagessituated along the axis of the C-152 and the C-153. On the GIP-5226, thefirst of these villages is Sant Privat d'en Bas with square, church andcemetery making up the old town. Higher up there is the waterfall on theRiver Sallent and Olletes chapel. At Puigpardines we find the church(formerly a monastery) of Santa Maria, and in the same village there isalso a local country produce shop. Now take the GIP-5273 to Joanetes,with its Romanesque church and 35 metre high waterfall. This is a startingpoint for excursions and hiking trails to Puigsacalm mountain (1515 metres)and other places. Sant Esteve d'en Bas has a 12th-century Romanesquechurch with an interesting group of stone sculptures of Christ in Majesty,a Romanesque bridge at La Cau and La Rectoria house-museum. ElsHostalets d'en Bas is famous for the balconies on Carrer Teixeda (listedas a Historical-Artistic Monument), unique in Catalonia. There is anotherRomanesque bridge here, a monument to the farming community anda monolith (another Historical-Artistic Site).

Go back to Sant Esteve d'en Bas to take the C-63 to Les Planes d'Hostoles (from where hikingtrails lead to Hostoles Castle among other places) in order to get onto the GI-531. Take a detourto Sant Aniol de Finestres, another good starting point for hikers, and see the Romanesquechurches and hermitages in the area. Go back along the GI-531 through Llémena Valley (seeRoute 1) until Girona, and from Girona back to Banyoles.

Go back to Sant Martí de Campmajor with its 9th-century Romanesque church.From there continue on the GIV-5246 to Falgons, with a modified Romanesquechurch enlarged in the 18th century and a square castle with reinforcementtowers, dating from the year 1126. Now go back to the main road to Mieresand then on to Santa Pau.

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The lakeside town of Banyoles has a long history. The town grew upin the shadow of the monastery of Sant Esteve, which still conservesits original late Gothic portal. However, the church and cloister thatwe see today date mainly from the 18th century. In the interior thereis the 15th-century chest of Sant Martirià and an altarpiece from thesame century. Interesting civil and religious buildings include: the13th-century porticoed Main Square, where the weekly market is heldevery Wednesday; the ramparts; Plaça del Teatre; Carrer de laParaireria; the 14th-century Pia Almoina; the Llotja del Tint (DyeMarket) and the gothic church of Santa Maria dels Turers. The DarderMuseum and the Archaeology Museum are both worth a visit, as isthe lakeside La Draga Neolithic Park.Banyoles Lake is a major leisure area around which life in thetown revolves. Banyoles and Pla de l'Estany county are officialSports Tourism Destinations for still water rowing and canoeing,cycling, mountain biking, swimming and triathlon. Nature loverscan also find lakeside bird watching lookouts as well as flora andfauna routes through this exceptional countryside.

Take the GIP-5121 to Esponellà.

Towns and villages inPLA DE L'ESTANYand LA VALL D'EN BASFactsheet

CULTURAL HERITAGEThe route takes us around some of the towns andvillages in Pla de l'Estany county, crosses the NaturalPark of the Garrotxa Volcanic Area and ends in LaVall d'en Bas. The road goes through places of greatnatural, cultural and historical interest where theessence of Catalan rural life is still conserved.

ROUTE CHARACTERISTICSCircular route which can be combined with hikingtrails in the area: the “Soldados de Salamina” routesin Pla de l'Estany county and other trails throughthe Natural Park of the Garrotxa Volcanic Area andLa Vall d'en Bas.


STARTING POINTBanyoles


This route brings us into some of the most delightful and leastwell-known areas of Pla de l'Estany and Garrotxa counties, takingin many towns and villages with a strong Romanesque culturalheritage. However, there are also other places of interest suchas old castles, a Clock Museum and a curious sculpture park, allsituated in undeniably beautiful countryside. A trip around thevolcanoes in the Natural Park of the Garrotxa Volcanic Area isan absolute must on this route. Restaurants serving traditionaldishes and shops selling local country produce are an addedattraction in the area.

BANYOLES1

Routedescription

Girona

Banyoles

Cornellà del TerriPalol de Revardit

Camós


Esponellà is a small country village where the main points of

ESPONELLÀ2

FalgonsSanta Pau

Hostaletsd’en Bas

La Valld’en Bas

Like Ripoll, the history of the town of Sant Joan de les Abadessesis closely linked to that of its monastery, also founded by CountGuifré el Pelós, who placed his daughter Emma as abbess of theBenedictine community. The monastery houses a group ofsculptures composed of seven life-sized figures, considered aunique example of the 13th-century transition period fromRomanesque to Gothic-style sculpture. A stroll around the towncentre is highly recommended to see a rare example of medievaltown planning and interesting sights such as the Old Bridge, theremains of the ramparts and the porticoed Main Squaresurrounded by baroque-style buildings. A large market is held onthe square every week.

Go along the GI-521 over the Collada de Sentigosa pass until the N-260, andfrom there head towards Vallfogona de Ripollès.

SANT JOAN DE LES ABADESSES2

Situated in a wooded, mountain area of great natural beauty,Vallfogona boasts an interesting cultural heritage that includesLa Sala Castle, with a rectangular floor plan and a seven-storiedtower; the church of Mare de Déu del Pòpul, which still conservessome Romanesque features; a very well conserved medievalcentre with a noteworthy Main Square and surrounding streetswith carefully restored 17th- and 18th-century houses; the 14th-century medieval bridge, and the church of Sant Julià deVallfogona, parts of which date back to the 12th century.

Go back to Ripoll on the N-260 and continue along the N-152 towards Ribesde Freser, stopping at Campdevànol on the way.

VALLFOGONA DE RIPOLLÈS3

Right beside the main road just beyond Campdevànol we find aRomanesque bridge popularly known as Pont d'en Cabreta (Bridgeof the Little Goat), a name that also designates the figure of thedevil. According to the legend, Count Arnau used this bridge tocross the River Freser on the road between Campdevànol andRibes de Freser. Go back into Campdevànol and visit theRomanesque church of Sant Pere d'Auira.

Take the GI-401 to Gombrèn and 2.5 km after the village turn right toMataplana Castle.

CAMPDEVÀNOL4

GOMBRÈN - MATAPLANA CASTLE5

Mataplana Castle was a Romanesque-style fortified manor-palaceused less as a fortress than as a residence and centre oftroubadour culture in the 12th and 13th centuries. The Mataplanalineage played an important role in forging the national identityof Catalonia and Andorra.Beside the castle there is a chapel and a hamlet where fivefamilies lived up until the 14th century. This was the residence ofCount Artau de Pallars, often mistakenly identified with CountArnau. It is now thought that Count Arnau never really existed,but his legend so widespread that the Mataplana Castle is popularlybelieved to have been his mansion. It is said that Count Arnaudid not pay his soldiers, that he consorted with the nuns in SantJoan de les Abadesses and that he made pacts with the devil…and for all of which deeds his restless spirit is condemned towander eternally through these lands.

Go down the track until you see signposts for Montgrony sanctuary.

MONTGRONY SANCTUARY6

The Romanesque sanctuary of Montgrony dates from the late9th century and today is a hostel for visitors. Beside the hostelare the steps that Count Arnau ordered his serfs to carve out ofthe living rock, and then refused to pay them the agreed price.There is also the Romanesque church of Sant Pere, consecratedin 1138. The spot has lovely panoramic views over the surroundingcountryside.

Go back to Gombrèn.

GOMBRÈN7

In Gombrèn we can visit the Count Arnau Museum, which is infact the municipal museum containing information on thearchaeology and history of the town and castle, findings fromthe excavations at Mataplana, as well as scale models and drawingsshowing the development of the castle and life within its walls.The museum also contains panels on the mythology and literaturesurrounding the legend of Count Arnau.

This route can be combined with routes 1, 2 and 12.

Vall deLlémena

4

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The route brings us around the city centre and it is recommended totake a guided visit. Information is available at the Tourist Office on theRambla and also at the Punt de Benvinguda (Tel. 972 211 678), oppositethe Devesa park, near a municipal car park and the law courts.However, it is also pleasant to wander up and down the narrow streetsand to let yourself get carried away by the magic of the Old Town,where history and culture, restaurants and bars, shopping opportunities...are all there for you to enjoy. What we propose here is not so much aroute as an invitation to visit the main points of interest in the city.

The Call or Jewish quarterThe former Jewish quarter is one of the best conserved in WesternEurope. The labyrinthine stone structure of the streets helped the quarterto withstand the ravages of time and, for this reason, recent renovationworks have been able to faithfully reproduce its age of splendour.The nerve centre of the quarter is Carrer de la Força (formerlythe Roman Via Augusta), which slopes down from the steps ofthe Cathedral to the Plaça del Correu Vell. It was here that a gatewas erected in the 14th century to enclose the quarter. The streetis at the very hub of the Old Town and is hard to miss, as it meetsthe Quatre Cantons, at the end of the Rambla and CarrerArgenteria, and Carreras Peralta, Cort Reial and Carrer Ciutadans(ending with the City Hall on Plaça del Vi).It is thought that there were three synagogues in Girona. The firstwas situated between the Cathedral and the Bishop's Palace. Thesecond, dating from the 13th century, occupied a site opposite thesteps of La Pera at no. 23 Carrer de la Força. The last synagogue wassituated on Carrer Sant Llorenç, centre of the Jewish quarter in the15th century. This street, however, was closed off to the public until1975. Access to the last synagogue was through courtyards andarchways, and the same building is now known as Bonastruc Ça PortaCentre, with a new entrance at no. 8 Carrer de la Força. Here in theMuseum of Jewish History visitors can learn about the history of theJewish communities in medieval Catalonia. A major collection of

Rediscovering theJEWISH WORLDFactsheet

CULTURAL HERITAGEVisit Girona and Besalú with their rich historic andcultural heritage going back to the times when majorJewish communities lived in this area. Girona is amember city of the Spanish Network of Jewish Cities-Paths of Sepharad. Besalú is an associate town.

ROUTE CHARACTERISTICSUrban route, ideal for leisurely strolls over a fewdays around Girona city and nearby Besalú.




The Jewish community in Girona played a fundamental role inthe development of the city between the 9th and the 15thcenturies. The Call, or Jewish quarter, is a Catalan word derivingfrom the Latin callis meaning “street”. The Girona Call is situatedin the heart of the Old Town, a maze of narrow streets and alleysstill bearing traces of the Jewish community that lived here for600 years.We will visit the Museum of Jewish History and the main historicbuildings in the city, mostly located in the area surrounding theJewish quarter. The nearby town of Besalú has a historic medievalcentre that is among the best conserved in Catalonia and aninteresting Jewish quarter with a mikvah, or Jewish ritual baths,unique in Europe.

GIRONA1

Routedescription

Girona

Besalú


GI-660 to La Bisbal, across the spectacular countryside of theGavarres massif, a former cork production area.La Bisbal is one of the main pottery centres in the whole ofSpain, with many workshops and retail shops to be explored atleisure. Terracotta Museum is located in an old ceramic factory,where we can follow the entire pottery production process aswell as admire the architecture of the building itself.

Going back across the Gavarres, take the GI-664 to Cassà de la Selva, a town withmany cork factories. Visit Parc Art, with over 100 contemporary sculptures pleasantlydisplayed in a large park.Take the C-65 to Quart, another long-standing pottery town, with many shops sellingartisan and industrial ceramics.Skirting Girona city, take the N-II to Sant Julià de Ramis and then to Celrà on theright, where the Town Hall and cultural centre are located in the former Pagansfactory, open to the public. Going back towards Girona, on the right hand side ofthe main road is Sarrià de Ter, a town closely linked to the paper industry.

PALAFRUGELL - PALAMÓS - LA BISBALD'EMPORDÀ

5

Peralada (Route 10) has an important Wine Museum, located insidethe museum at Peralada Castle, displaying 14th-century objects relatedto viticulture. The town also boasts the only wine-spa in Spain.From here we can tour around the D.O. Empordà-Costa Bravawine-producing areas (Tel. 972 507 513). Some wine cellars areopen to the public, for example Oliveda at Capmany, but usuallyonly by appointment. Some places run guided visits around thevineyards. The route now traces a rough square along the N-260,GI-602 and E-15 and some local roads, passing through Vilajuïga,Garriguella, Espolla, Capmany and Cabanes villages andencompassing the classic Mediterranean agricultural trilogy ofvineyards, wheat fields and olive groves. Working olive oil pressescan also be seen here from December to February.

From the C-260 we reach Castelló d'Empúries (see Route 10), with Farinera Eco-museum, sole remaining flourmill from the three 14th-century mills in the town,where we can see how the original machinery worked. The Curia-Prison is also wortha visit for its display on the life of medieval troubadours.We reach Torroella de Fluvià on the GIV-6216 and from there the C-31 brings us toTorroella de Montgrí and Pals. A short detour along the GI-651 will take us to Palau-sator, where there is a small Rural Museum displaying farm tools and machinery.At Pals (see Route 10), rice is still cultivated on reclaimed wetlands and a rice mill andshop are open to the public. The route continues on to Palafrugell.

PERALADA AND THE D.O. EMPORDÀ-COSTA BRAVA4

ALTERNATIVE ROUTE

From Girona go southwards along the AP-7/E-15 or the N-II until youreach Hostalric and Breda. The latter (see Route 1) is another mainpottery centre with many shops, craft workers and industrial ceramicmanufacturers. Els Forns Cultural Centre is actually situated in an oldpottery kiln. We are now in the heart of the Montseny Natural Park, aUNESCO biosphere reserve.Continue on to Arbúcies, where we can visit La Gabella-MontsenyEthnology Museum, one of the most important of its kind in Catalonia.Displays on the interaction of man with the environment include a 12projector multi-vision space on local legends and 14 rooms dedicatedto the evolution of human inhabitation of the Montseny massif fromearliest times to industrialisation. We now go back to Hostalric and thenon to Sils along the GIV-5121, passing the Salvador Claret AutomobileCollection with over 300 chronologically displayed vehicles includingvelocipedes, bicycles, motorbikes, automobiles and aviation material.Take the C-63 to the tourist resort of Lloret de Mar, where Can GarrigaMaritime Museum is located in a colonial-style house, with a largecollection of model ships among other objects. From Lloret, go alongthe coastal GI-682 to Tossa de Mar (see Route 9) and visit theMediterranean Lighthouse Interpretative Centre, situated in the oldlighthouse at the top of the emblematic old town. A new space revealsthe fascinating world of the lighthouse and lighthouse keepers withdisplays on history and architecture, and also on the lighthouse as asource of inspiration for literature and the cinema.

From Tossa de Mar take the road back to Girona.

At Palafrugell we find the Cork Museum with displays showingobjects related to cork manufacture, descriptions of the life ofthe cork workers and the scale of the industry in this area. Whilein Palafrugell, visit the Josep Pla Foundation in the house wherethe writer was born. We then take the C-66 to Palamós, one ofthe main Catalan fishing ports, preferably in the late afternoonto coincide with the arrival of the fishing boats and the daily fishauction in the harbour. The Fish Space in the harbour area aimsto provide information on the sustainability and gastronomy ofsea produce, and to promote the use of certain lesser-valuedspecies of high culinary quality. There is also a Fishing Museum,the only one of its kind in the whole Mediterranean area, withfascinating insights on the relationship between man and thesea.We leave Palamós and take the C-256 to Calonge and then the

This route can also be combined with routes 1, 2, 3, 4, 7, 9, 10, 11 and 12.

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tombstones with Hebrew inscriptions from the Jewish cemetery onMontjuïc is on permanent display. The Nahmanides Institute forJewish Studies is also here with library, research and educationalfacilities. Carrer Claveria marks the eastern boundary of the Jewishquarter while the northern boundary is Carrer de Cúndaro, at theend of which was situated the medieval Jewish marketplace.

Cathedral (11th-18th centuries)The Cathedral of Girona has the widest Gothic nave in the world, theconstruction of which gave rise to a famous controversy between theCathedral architects and the archbishop of the time. Other outstandingfeatures include the cloister and the old Romanesque tower thatbuttresses the later Gothic building. Valuable art works are conservedin the interior, including the 10th-century Beatus and the well-known11th-century Creation Tapestry, a masterpiece of Romanesque textile art.

Arab Baths (12th century)A Romanesque-style building imitating the structure of old Muslim baths.

Church of Sant Felix (13th-16th centuries)The church was constructed alongside the old city ramparts, witha fortified chevet and a Gothic nave over a Romanesque structure.Valuable art works are conserved in the interior, such as theReclining Christ by Mestre Aloi, a masterpiece of Catalan Gothicart. The 17th-century west façade is Baroque. Only one of thetwo projected towers was constructed.

Monastery of Sant Pere de Galligants (11th-12th centuries)Former Benedictine monastery, nowadays the Archaeology Museum.The monumentality of the temple and its cloister make this one ofthe finest examples of Catalan Romanesque architecture.

MuseumsThe city of Girona has an exceptional cultural heritage and a visit tothe museums is the best way to complement many of the routes in thiscatalogue. In addition to the above-mentioned museums, special noteshould be made of the City History Museum, the Art Museum, theArchaeology Museum of Catalonia. The Cinema Museum, based onthe private collection of local film maker Tomàs Mallol, has an educationaldisplay of objects illustrating the history of the moving image.The M5 entrance ticket gives discount access to five museums in Girona.

Other places of interestIn Girona city, you cannot miss seeing the houses and bridges on theRiver Onyar. The riverside houses were built leaning up against thecity walls at the end of the Middle Ages. Superb views can be seen fromthe bridges, the most famous of which are the Pont de Pedra (StoneBridge). and the Pont de Ferro (Iron Bridge) designed by the GustaveEiffel studio. The Rambla de la Llibertat is one of the emblematic

streets of the city, with its archways, terraces and shops. More shopscan be found on the other side of the river in Carrer de Santa Claraand in the Eixample. Enjoy the Passeig de la Muralla walk along thetop of the city walls and the large green zone of the Devesa Park.

Take the C-66 to Banyoles and Besalú.

BESALÚ2

The medieval town of Besalú, former seat of the counts of the samename, is a magnificent historic-artistic site that is included on severalroutes (Routes 1, 2, 8, 10 and 12). The town grew up around Besalúcastle, dating from the 10th century. The strategic situation betweenthe Rivers Fluvià and Capellades, on the boundary of three counties,granted Besalú an important role in the history of Catalonia.

The Jewish mikvah (12th century)The mikvah or Jewish ritual bathhouse in Besalú is the only oneof its kind discovered in the Iberian Peninsula and one of the fewknown in Europe. The underground mikvah, accessed by stonesteps, is located in a typical 12th-century stone-built Romanesquehouse with a barrel vault. In the Middle Ages, the Jewish communityused the baths to fulfil the religious rite of total immersion.

A historic-artistic siteIn Besalú, take a stroll around the old streets and absorb the history ofthe town. Noteworthy buildings include the old church of the 12th-centurymonastery of Sant Pere; the 12th-century church of Sant Vicenç withits Gothic side chapel; the façade of the 12th-century church hospital ofSant Julià; Casa Cornellà, a good example of 12th-century Romanesquearchitecture; and the Gothic room of the Royal Curia. The Romanesquebridge over the River Fluvià is the most outstanding sight in Besalú.To complete the route, take the N-260 from Besalú to Figueres and go on towards Llançà untilthe turnoff to Vilajuïga.The history of this town goes back to the 10th century, when it was documented as belonging tothe monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes (see Route 1). The town was closely linked to the Counts ofEmpúries and Quermançó castle and its name clearly signifies “Jewish town” or “town of the Jews”.Stroll around the old town centre and see the church of Sant Feliu, of Romanesque origin. This is a goodstarting point for several different routes: the Dolmen Route, the Wine Route and the Water Route.

This route can be combined with routes 1, 2, 8, 10, 11 and 12.

CASTELLÓ D’EMPÚRIES3

We can finish by driving southwards for ten kilometres for a visit toCastelló d'Empúries (see Route 10), medieval seat of the Counts ofEmpúries with its impressive church and Jewish quarter which oncehad one of the highest populations in medieval Catalonia. Severalfunerary steles are conserved here and the structure of the NewSynagogue can still be seen on Carrer de les Peixateries Velles.

Alongside its cultural heritage (see Routes 1, 2,4 and 10), Gironaalso has an interesting industrial past, as witnessed by theModernist-style Farinera Teixidor, a former flourmill that todayhouses the offices of El Punt newspaper. Carrer de la Sèquia takesits name from a former industrial canal. We also recommend avisit to the Cinema Museum, which features displays on the earlyhistory of the seventh art.

Leave the city on the N-141 to Salt.

INDUSTRIAL andCRAFTWORK heritage

Olot (see Route 2) is the capital of the Garrotxa volcanic zone.The city has a long artistic tradition, as witnessed by the19thcentury Olot School of Landscape Painting, and specialisesin artisan production of Nativity crib figures and religious images.The Museum of Saints, displaying original works by well-knownsculptors, is located in one of these workshops.Recommended places to visit include the Garrotxa CountyMuseum, the Volcano Museum and Can Trincheria Manor HouseMuseum.

Take the A-26 to Castellfollit de la Roca with its impressive basalt cliff andsmall Sausage Museum, passing Besalú (see Routes 1, 4 and 10) and Figueres(see Routes 2 and 3), where we can visit the Empordà Technical Museum andthe Toy Museum of Catalonia. Follow the N-260 until the turnoff to Peralada.

GIRONA1

Routedescription

Girona

Factsheet

CULTURAL HERITAGEDiscover the rich craftwork heritage and some ofthe more traditional industries along this route,which leads us through past and present across thelength and breadth of the counties of Girona, fromthe Pyrenees to the Costa Brava.

ROUTE CHARACTERISTICSCircular route with different stretches and onealternative route.

MAIN ROUTEApproximately 270 kmAlternative route: Approximately 170 km

STARTING POINTGirona. However, given the different stretches visitedalong the route, Figueres, Olot, La Bisbal d'Empordàand Tossa de Mar are also good starting points.

In the centre of the town of Salt, we visit the Water Museum,located in an old fortified farmhouse with a 12th-century tower,featuring displays on the importance of the River Ter for industrialactivity, as textile and paper factories, ironworks, ice wells,flourmills and so on. From Salt, we can take the Architecture ofWater hiking trail to Bescanó, taking in a former public wash-house at Salt, Monar canal, Pilastra dam, the Bescanó barge, twopower plants, and an ice well at Vilanna.

Follow the N-141 to Anglès, then go up the C-63 towards Olot. At Les Preses,just before Olot, stop off to visit Pedra Tosca Park situated in a landscapeformed by volcanic eruptions 11,000 years ago and see the old crop fields,tracks and dry stone huts constructed for survival in the harsh volcanicterritory. After that, continue on to Olot.

SALT AND THE ARCHITECTURE OF WATER2

Olot

Peralada

PalafrugellLa Bisbald’Empordà

Palamós

OLOT3

Figueres Castellód’empúries


Hostalric

ArbúciesSils

Salt

Breda


This route enables us to discover a host of traditional crafts andactivities: seafaring trades such as fishing and lighthouse keeping;rural occupations such as farming, viticulture and oil producing;pottery-making in three of the main ceramic centres of Catalonia;water and its role in industry; cork production and the Gavarresforests; artisan-made religious images and Nativity crib figures...Driving through magnificent countryside, the route takes in aseries of little museums, pottery centres and vestiges of theindustrial history of the area, thus illustrating the links betweenthe land and its inhabitants.

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Figueres is the main city north of Girona and the capital of theAlt Empordà, one of the oldest counties in the history of Cataloniaas witnessed by the many megalithic sites in the Albera mountainsand the rich Romanesque heritage of the area. Figueres hasmany cultural attractions apart from the Dalí Museum and isworth a leisurely visit. Among the most interesting museums arethe Toy Museum of Catalonia, the Empordà Museum with localarchaeology, art and history sections, and the Empordà TechnicalMuseum. A visit to the impressive Sant Ferran Castle, constructedbetween 1753 and 1772, is extremely interesting (see Route 9).Figueres also boasts several noteworthy Modernist buildings, arich cultural life, a large shopping zone and different marketsselling fruit and vegetables, clothes and bric-à-brac.

The SALVADORDALÍ TRIANGLEFactsheet

CULTURAL HERITAGEFollow the footsteps of surrealist master SalvadorDalí visiting the three spaces where the Gala-SalvadorDalí Foundation (www.salvador-dali.org) faithfullyreproduces the life and work of the painter.


MAIN ROUTE130 km



The painter Salvador Dalí was a master of surrealism and, withoutdoubt, one of the most important artists of the 20th century. Hewas born in Figueres, where many of his paintings are on showin the Dalí Museum. He lived and worked for many years in hishouse-workshop at Portlligat, near the town of Cadaqués on theCap de Creus promontory. Dalí was a genius who sought inspirationin the countryside; the rocks, the sea and the rough Cap de Creuslandscape are always present in his works. Our route also takesin Púbol Castle, given by Dalí as a gift to his wife Gala.

FIGUERES1

Routedescription

Girona

Figueres

Cadaqués

Portlligat

Púbol

Cap deCreus

Sanctuary of Marede Déu dels Àngels

The Dalí Museum with its emblematic dome is situated near theRambla in the centre of Figueres and is one of the most popularmuseums in Spain. This is the great masterpiece of Salvador Dalí,who worked on the design of the museum for over ten years,paying personal attention to every last detail. It was Dalí's ownidea to crown the building with a reticular dome-shaped structure.

DALÍ THEATRE-MUSEUM2

Set in one of the most exuberant nature spots on the Costa Brava, with85% of its territory included in the Plan for Spaces of Natural Interest,Tossa de Mar is the only fortified walled town on the Catalan coast. Themedieval ramparts of the town are an internationally recognised imageof the Costa Brava and were classified as a National Historical-ArtisticMonument as far back as 1931. The first reference to a town calledCastrum de Torsa dates from the year 966. It is also interesting to notethat until 1784 Tossa was under the authority of the Monastery of Ripoll.The long disappeared defence castle was built in 1187 at the highestpoint of the old town, on the site of today's lighthouse.The ramparts date from the 12th century, although extensive restorationworks were carried out in the 14th century. Spectacular towers stand outfrom the ramparts: Joanàs Tower overlooking the bay; Codolar Donjon,watching over the traditional fishermen's refuge and one of the bestloved Tossa de Mar beaches, and Clock Tower at the entrance to theparade ground. Tossa de Mar old town is well known for its artistictraditions and it is here that we find the Municipal Museum, oneof the main modern art museums in the Girona area, with anextraordinary collection of paintings by European avant-gardepainters who spent time in Tossa during the first half of the 1930s,such as Marc Chagall and André Masson. The MediterraneanLighthouse Interpretative Centre (Route 8) is open to the public.

TOSSA DE MAR3 LA BISBAL D'EMPORDÀ5

The pottery centre (see Routes 2 and 8) has a large castle datingfrom the year 1180, residence of the bishops of Girona andclassified as a national monument and as a Historical-ArtisticMonument since 1972. The castle is a good example of civilmedieval architecture but was reformed in the 15th, 16th and 17thcenturies. It is situated right in the centre of La Bisbal, besidethe remains of the old ramparts. There is another castle,documented from 1301, in the nearby hamlet of Castell d'Empordà.

Leaving La Bisbal on the C-66, turn off along the C-252 and then take the C-31 to Torroella de Montgrí.

FIGUERES. SANT FERRAN CASTLE7

Sant Ferran Castle is a major European fortress, a star-shaped pentagonwith a double row of ramparts, an exterior perimeter of over 3,100metres and an interior perimeter of 2,100 meters. Between the tworamparts there is a large moat and 8 cisterns. The parade ground hasan area of 12,000 m2. The castle had a garrison of 6,000 men, althoughit was actually designed to hold double that number. The well conservedfortress was opened to the public in 1997 and is classified as an Assetof Cultural Interest and a Historical-Artistic Monument.

Take the C-260 to Castelló d'Empúries, another very interesting medieval town (Route 10), and on to Roses,where we visit the monumental Citadel site showing the different occupations from its foundation by theGreeks until its 19th-century fall into disuse (see Route 11). The Citadel itself is a Renaissance fortificationthat was partly destroyed during the Napoleonic occupation. Go back to Figueres and take the AP-7 orthe N-II up to the border town of La Jonquera, from where we can see Rocabertí Castle and also the interestingRequesens Castle in the heart of the Albera Natural Place documented from the year 1050. Today's castle,now abandoned, is a spectacular late 19th century neo-medieval reconstruction, with three ramparts,round and square towers, courtyards, large outside staircases and so on.

The route finishes here in Requesens Castle.

TORROELLA DE MONTGRÍ6

Torroella is a town of great historical importance, having beenproclaimed royal town in 1273. There is a medieval centre with severalpalaces and a large Gothic church. The castle on top of Montgrímountain, 309 metres above sea level, was constructed by KingJaume II but never completed. The perimeter and four cylindricaltowers still stand. A one-hour climb to the top affords spectacularviews over the whole Empordà county and the Medes Islands.

Go back along the C-31 to Figueres, to visit Sant Ferran Castle.

This route can also be combined with routes 1, 2, 3, 8, 10, 11 and 12.

CASTELL D’ARO - CALONGE - BEGUR4

Follow the pretty GI-682 that twists its way along the coast to Sant Feliude Guíxols and Platja d'Aro, from where we turn off to Santa Cristinad'Aro and Castell d'Aro. The origin of Castell d'Aro goes back to themedieval Benedormiens Castle that protected the monastery of SantFeliu de Guíxols. The castle, classified as a Cultural Asset of NationalInterest, is situated on a hill 42 metres above sea level and has beenpartially restored as an exhibition room. Continue on along the C-31 tonearby Calonge, where there is a castle dating from the year 1019 witha large interior parade ground surrounded by towers and ramparts.Follow the C-31 until Palamós and Palafrugell and turn off along the GI-653 to Begur, a lovely small coastal town crowned by a round castle.Easily accessible on foot, the castle affords magnificent views of thecoves beneath. Leaving Begur we come to a series of medieval villagesstrung out over a short distance that are well worth a leisurely visit (seeRoutes 8 and 10): Pals, Palau-sator (with its clock tower), Peratallada,Cruïlles, Monells, Corçà and Ullastret. Drive on to La Bisbal d'Empordà.

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This route can be combined with routes 1, 2, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12.

He also created a series of paintings, sculptures and monumentalinstallations specially designed for the museum, such as the MaeWest Room, the Wind Palace Room and the Rainy Cadillac. Themuseum has three well-defined spaces: the Theatre-Museumitself, a burnt-down old theatre converted by Dalí into an exhibitionspace; the progressively enlarged exhibition rooms containingnumerous works by Dalí; and the Dalí·Jewels exhibition roomsdisplaying thirty-seven jewels of gold and precious stones alsodesigned by the artist.The museum contains a wide range of works from each periodof Dalí's life, from his first artistic experiences (impressionism,futurism, cubism, etc.) and surrealist creations, right up to thefinal works from the end of his life.For the last 21 years, the late-night opening hours in August offera different way of seeing the museum collections.A visit to the Theatre-Museum affords an ideal opportunity todiscover the unique, enthralling world of Salvador Dalí.

Leave Figueres by taking the C-260 towards Castelló d'Empúries and Roses.Before reaching Roses, turn off onto the GI-614 to Cadaqués.

Surrounded by outstanding landscapes and some of the finest,most peaceful coves along the Costa Brava, Cadaqués has becomea major art centre over the years due to the presence of avant-garde painters and sculptors who have resided or spent timehere, following the traces of Salvador Dalí, whose name is foreverlinked to the town. Take the time to stroll up and down the steep,narrow streets and visit the church of Santa Maria. There is anArt Museum in the town centre and several Modernist houses.Sculptures by Josep Llimona, the well-known Catalan post-Romantic and Modernist sculptor whose work straddled the 19thand 20th centuries, can be seen on some of the vaults in thelocal cemetery. Cadaqués is an ideal place to overnight andsample the nightlife of the town.

CADAQUÉS3

One kilometre north of Cadaqués there is a small bay enclosingone of the prettiest coves in the area. This is Portlligat, whereDalí bought up a row of fishermen's houses in which he establishedhis residence and studio. The resulting labyrinthine structurecontaining furniture and personal effects, and Dalí's library andworkshop, is yet another masterpiece created by the artist.Visits by appointment only. Please ring 972 251 015.

PORTLLIGAT4

CAP DE CREUS5

Cap de Creus Natural Park is the main land-and-sea park inCatalonia, with its 450 million year old rocky surface, erodedover the centuries by the famous tramuntana north wind into arugged coastline of great beauty. Salvador Dalí drew endlessinspiration from these landscapes. The Cap de Creus Natural Parktourist information offices are located in the impressiveRomanesque monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes, near the townof El Port de la Selva.In Cap de Creus lighthouse, the new exhibition space has displayson the flora, fauna and other assets of the park.

Go back to Figueres and take the N-II, then the C-252 and finally the C-31towards La Bisbal d'Empordà, crossing Alt Empordà county from north tosouth and driving along an inland road that goes through Torroella de Fluvià,Viladamat, Verges and Parlavà. At Parlavà, take the GI-643 past Rupià untilyou reach the main road to Girona. Follow the indications to La Pera, andfrom there to nearby Púbol Castle.

PÚBOL6

Púbol Castle was a gift from Dalí to his wife Gala who, accordingto legend, refused Dalí access without her expressly writtenpermission. Art collections, the couple's famous Cadillac, Gala'sprivate apartments and a collection of her haute couture gownsare on display to the public. Visitors can also see the crypt whereDalí's wife and muse is buried, as well as the garden containingsculptures of stylised elephants and a Wagnerian fountain.

From Púbol, take the C-66 towards La Bisbal, turning off at Corçà along theGIV-6702 to go up to the sanctuary of Mare de Déu dels Àngels.

SANCTUARY OF MARE DE DÉU DELS ÀNGELS7

Salvador Dalí and Gala were married in this sanctuary which,although devoid of any particular cultural or architectural interest,affords spectacular panoramic views over most of the provinceof Girona.

From Portlligat we drive on towards Cap de Creus and view the landscapethat inspired the works of Salvador Dalí.From Cadaqués, a coastal walk affording vistas of the shoreline with its littlecoves brings us up to Cap de Creus lighthouse in just over an hour. Highlyrecommended.

Routedescription

Listed as an Asset of National Interest, the town of Hostalric comprisesone of the major monumental sites of medieval Catalonia. It was alsoan important military fortress in the Modern Age. The 13th-century FraresTower is the oldest of its kind in the area, and one of the most emblematicmonuments in the town. Standing at 33 metres, it is also the highest ofthe towers, with a lookout point offering an unsurpassable view of thetown. The Barcelona Gate is one of the accesses to the walled enclosure,of which ten towers and 600 metres of defence wall are conserved. Arecommended itinerary is to follow the parapet walk along the walls untilreaching the noble Ararà Tower. The castle, the Town Hall (a formerfriary), the Convent Tower and exhibition room, and El Relliguer caveshould not be missed. Hostalric Castle has a long military history. Itplayed a key role in the Peninsular War, one of the major war episodesexisting in popular memory. Documentation from 1145 bears witness toa fortress standing on the same site, but most of the building we seetoday dates from reconstruction works carried out in the late 18thcentury. Guided tours, e-routes and “key to the town” visits are available,for all of which it is necessary to contact the Tourism Office.

Take the C-35 towards Sant Celoni, turning off 8 km down the road along the GI-552to Breda. A couple of kilometres after Breda, take a track leading to Montsoriu Castle.

CASTLESand RAMPARTSFactsheet

CULTURAL HERITAGEHistorical events prompted the construction ofdefence ramparts and castles in many towns andvillages of the Girona area, leaving behind a richcultural heritage spanning the centuries.

ROUTE CHARACTERISTICSLineal route running from south to north.


STARTING POINTHostalric, just off the AP-7 and the C-35.


Our route takes us to towns with a past. We will be visitingpicturesque castles of great historical interest, many now in ruins,constructed at a time when these lands marked the borderbetween Moorish and Christian zones. The road then leads on tovisit fortresses and ramparts that have withstood the ravages oftime, and is thus ideal complement to the Medieval Towns andVillages Route (Route 10).However, there are many other lesser known castles and rampartsin other towns that for reasons of space are not included on thisroute. Further information is available in Tourist Offices.

HOSTALRIC1

Montsoriu is one of the finest medieval castles in Catalonia, seatof the viscounts of Girona-Cabrera, pre-eminent dynasty underthe Crown of Aragon. Thirteenth-century chronicler Bernat Desclotcalled Montsoriu “one of the most beautiful and noble in theworld”. The monumental site is made up of three walled enclosures,constructed between the 10th and the 15th centuries, with a totalperimeter length of 500 metres. The castle is currently underrenovation.

Continue on the GI-552 until Arbúcies, in the heart of the Montseny massif (see Route 8), Natural Parkand UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. In La Gabella - Montseny Ethnology Museum, there is a whole roomwith displays on Montsoriu Castle. There is also an interesting Santiago Rusiñol route with panels showingeight of the landscapes that inspired the painter between 1927 and 1930. Drive on up to the C-25, leadingto Sant Hilari Sacalm, with the ruins of Solterra Castle. Further on, in Santa Coloma de Farners, we find FarnersCastle, an 11th-century possession of the counts of Barcelona, built on a trapezoid floor plan with oneremaining 12-meter high cylindrical tower over 8 meters in diameter. A track four kilometres long leadsup to the castle from Sant Salvador Park. In order to fully appreciate the beautiful countryside, it isrecommended to do this stretch on foot. Shortly after, on the road to Anglès, there is a turnoff to thehamlet of Brunyola, site of a castle of the same name, dating from 1106. Three of the four original towersare still standing, one of which is now the church bell tower and town hall. Turn around and go back tothe C-25 to Cassà de la Selva, from where the C-65 leads on to Llagostera, with a signposted walk alongthe old ramparts. Take the GI-681 to the coast until Tossa de Mar.

MONTSORIU AND OTHER CASTLES IN LA SELVA COUNTY2

Girona

Hostalric

Tossa de Mar

la Bisbald'Empordà

Figueres


Montsoriu Castle

Castell d'Aro

Begur

Calonge

la Jonquera

Roses

2

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The GREATMODERNIST ROUTE

GIRONA8

Girona, one of the four capital cities in Catalonia, is a monumentalcultural and artistic heritage centre with many museums. Thereare buildings from all different styles and periods, ranging frommedieval Romanesque to the rationalist architecture of the 1960s(see Routes 1, 4 and 10). Modernist houses of great architecturalvalue designed by Rafael Masó include Casa Teixidor (also knownas Casa de la Punxa), now the Technical Architects' Association;Farinera Teixidor, opposite the latter building, now housing theoffices of El Punt newspaper; Casa Batlle, crowned by eight ceramicowls on the cornice. Other lesser known Masó buildings includeCasa Ensesa, Casa Gispert Saüch and Casa Masó.

Following the course of the River Ter, of great importance for local industry(see Route 8), take the N-141 towards Bescanó, where we can see the ModernistPower Plant designed by architect Joan Roca i Pinet, and on to Anglès, wherethere are two Modernist houses in the town centre designed by Rafael Masó:Casa Vinyes and Casa Cendra.From Anglès, take the picturesque GI-542 road leading into La Selva countythrough the Guilleries mountains. Drive on to Sant Hilari Sacalm, a spa andsummer holiday town that also boasts its share of Modernist buildings: FontPicant Spa and the old Cooperative building. Seven kilometres further onthere is Villavecchia castle, designed by Enric Sagnier i Villavecchia.Go down to the C-25 and then turn off to Santa Coloma de Farners, an importantspa centre (see Route 9), and from there, take the C-63 to Vidreres and thenthe C-35 to Llagostera. From Llagostera go along the GI-674 to Caldes deMalavella.

CALDES DE MALAVELLA9

In La Selva county, famous for its mineral waters, Caldes de Malavellais without doubt the town with the largest and richest Modernistheritage. At the turn of the 20th century, many spas were built toexploit the natural hot water springs of the area and the townbecame a popular watering place. Catalan bourgeois families builtsummer houses in the locality, with some in the fashionableModernist style of the time. Others incorporated Noucentistaelements in the design of their arches, decorative tiles, wroughtiron windows and balconies, stained glass, furniture and so on.The rich Modernist heritage includes about twenty differentbuildings, such as Vichy Catalan Spa, designed by Gaietà Buïgas;Prats Spa designed by Eusebi Bona; Casa de les Punxes; CasaRosa (or Casa Estapé) and Casa Mas i Ros, home of sardana musiccomposer Francesc Mas i Ros.

From Caldes de Malavella we take the N-II or the AP-7 for about 50 kilometresand head towards Figueres.

FIGUERES10

The most important city north of Girona, Figueres has a widecultural programme as well as several museums. Visitors arerecommended to take the time for a leisurely visit, and to see morethan just the Dalí Museum, the main attraction of the town (seeRoutes 3 and 9).At the end of the 19th century, prosperity of the city encouragedseveral powerful families to undertake construction of theModernist- style houses which today remain as an interestinglegacy of the period: Casa Puig Soler, birthplace of Salvador Dalí;Casa Mas-Roger (second residence of Dalí); Casa Salleras, CasaRoda, and so on. Other buildings in different styles include SalaEdison (the first cinema in the province of Girona); El Jardí Cinema-Theatre; Casino Menestral and the former municipal slaughterhouse.The architects who designed these buildings were Josep Azemar,Josep Martí, Sebastià Pi, Josep Bori and Llorenç Ros.

From Figueres, we can take the C-260 to Cadaqués (see Route 3), passing Castellód'Empúries and Roses on the way. Cadaqués has close links with Salvador Dalíand the art world, and is well worth a visit for the beauty of the town and themany little coves along the coast. There are some Modernist houses here too andseveral vaults in the local cemetery adorned with sculptures by Josep Llimona.Go back to Figueres and take the N-260 leading to Besalú, one of the most charmingtowns in Girona (see Routes 1, 4 and 10), and from there on to Olot.

CASTELLÓ D'EMPÚRIES6

This medieval town was the seat of the counts of Empúries. There are manyinteresting places to see here: the Gothic Llotja de Mar and Casa Gran buildings,old convents, remains of the town ramparts and old bridge. However, the realtreasure of Castelló d'Empúries is the huge 13th-century Gothic church ofSanta Maria, known as the “Empordà cathedral”. The bell tower is Romanesque.

MEDIEVAL TOWNS AND VILLAGES IN GARROTXA COUNTY8

PERALADA7

This town was originally the seat of the counts of Peralada. Itlater came under the viscounts of Rocabertí, who built the castlethat we see today. Restored in the 19th century, it now houses acasino and in the summer months is host to the most importantinternational music festival in Catalonia. Peralada town has alarge historic centre that invites leisurely inspection. The mostoutstanding sights are the beautiful 12th-13th-century Romanesqueconvent of Sant Domènec, with its capitals showing biblicalscenes; the 14th-century carmelite convent , with its Gothicchurch and cloister, and historic archives; the large librarycontaining over 70.000 volumes, and the castle museum.

Go back to Figueres and take the N-260 to Besalú, an important medieval town(see Route 1 and, above all, Route 4) which is well worth a leisurely visit and isalso a good starting point for the medieval towns and villages in Garrotxa county.

Here are four more villages, all situated close to each other in a smallarea. Ullastret is typically medieval with its high ramparts, ten 13th-14th-century defence towers, Gothic-style covered market place and theRomanesque church of Sant Pere. Nearby Palau-sator is another medievalvillage laid out around the former La Torre palace, featuring a large pre-Romanesque tower, remains of ramparts and defence towers. Back onthe GI-651, at Sant Julià de Boada there is a small 10th-century pre-Romanesque church and on the other side of the road there is Sant Feliude Boada with a fortified Gothic church. We are now very close to Pals.

ULLASTRET - PALAU-SATOR - SANT JULIÀ DEBOADA AND SANT FELIU DE BOADA

4

Pals municipal district is very large and stretches from one of the mostoutstanding medieval towns in Catalonia to a very long beach a couple ofkilometres distant. The old town, “El Pedró”, is visible from afar on its hilltoplocation. A lookout point at the top commands excellent views over thesurrounding wetlands, where rice is still cultivated. Pals is classified as aHistorical-Artistic Site and offers interesting windows, arches, wells, etc.,from periods ranging from Romanesque to the 18th century. The mostoutstanding sights include Ca la Pruna, a 15th-16th-century fortified housestanding at the entrance to the old town, with several exhibition spaces;the Gothic church of Sant Pere; the clock-tower, sole remaining feature ofthe old castle and something of a local landmark; the well conservedramparts and six defence towers. Stroll around the streets of Pals at yourleisure and admire the architecture and craft shops.

Take the C-31 to the market town of Torroella de Montgrí, with its remains of medieval rampartsand defence towers. Main points of interest include the Santa Caterina Gate, Les Bruixes Tower,porticoed houses on the square, a former Royal Palace and the Gothic church of Sant Genís. Thereis a big international music festival held here every summer. Take the C-31 towards Verges and justafter leaving Torroella we find the medieval village of Ullà with its 18th-century church. Shortly afterUllà there is the GI-632 turnoff to Bellcaire d'Empordà with its 13th-century castle and Romanesquechurch of Sant Joan (Saint John). Further on the same road is Albons, with a Romanesque churchdedicated to Sant Cugat. From Albons, go back onto the C-31 and head towards Figueres, and fromthere take the C-260 to Castelló d'Empúries.

PALS5

Go back towards Figueres, skirting the town in order to take the C-252 to Peralada.


Just before Besalú take the GIV-5234 up to Beuda, a village ofRomanesque origin where castles, manor houses, and monasteriescome together in perfect harmony with their surroundings. Ofexceptional interest are the 11th-century Romanesque church ofSant Domènec de Palera and the 12th-century church of SantFeliu de Beuda, with a valuable baptismal font. The route nowtakes us down to Banyoles (see Routes 1 and 7) and along theGI-524 to Santa Pau, in the heart of the Natural Park of theGarrotxa Volcanic Area. This medieval town grew up around the13th-14th-century castle and characteristically porticoed MainSquare, amidst spectacular natural surroundings (see Route 7).

Drive on to Olot and first take the C-152 and then the GIP 5272 to Hostalets d'en Bas in the centre of the Valld'en Bas. The town is famous for Carrer Teixeda, the street with the wooden balconies, classified as a NationalHistorical-Artistic Monument. There is also an interesting Romanesque bridge (See Route 7). Turn back andtake the road to Sant Feliu de Pallerols, Les Planes d'Hostoles and on to Amer, where there is the porticoedMain Square, the second largest of its kind in Catalonia. Each arch is different, as are the buildings aroundthe square, from various periods and styles. The pavement is made from flagstones coming from differenttowns in Catalonia. Also recommended is a visit to the Benedictine monastery of Santa Maria, dating fromthe year 949 and active until 1835, where we can still see the church, the remains of the old cloister and theabbot's house (today a medical dispensary). The former train station is now the Tourist Office and a stageon the cycle track that links Olot to Girona and Sant Feliu de Guíxols. Take the road to Anglès, with one ofthe most outstanding Gothic quarters in Catalonia. Carrer Major and Carrer d'Avall are the most interestingstreets in Anglès. There are magnificent farmhouses dotted around the municipal district: 16th-century fortifiedCan Biel and Can Planes; 15th century Cuc farmhouse-mill; 12th-century Bellveí or Perarnau farm. There arealso several hermitages in the area. From Anglès we go back to Girona and end the route.

15

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Although the history of Ripoll largely revolves around that of itsRomanesque monastery and its medieval town centre (see Routes1 and 5), there are also a good number of Modernist houses inthe locality: Can Bonada, Sant Miquel de la Roqueta, Can Codina,Casa Dou and Casa Alòs.

The Modernist route can be continued by taking the N-152 until Ribes deFreser, from where the mountain Collada de Toses road leads to La Cerdanyacounty and its capital city, Puigcerdà. Visitors solely interested in Modernismewould be wise to consider the difficulty of this stretch of the route, foralthough Puigcerdà has many cultural attractions (see Routes 1 and 6) andis situated in a spectacular valley, only a few of the Modernist houses aroundthe lake are really worth the effort.

RIPOLL13

Olot is the capital of the Garrotxa which, with its volcanic landscape,is one of the most distinctive counties in the province of Girona.The Natural Park of the Garrotxa Volcanic Area is a huge protectedarea of great natural beauty, comprising 11 towns and villagesand 26 natural reserves, with over 40 volcanoes. Numerous hikingtrails crisscross the Park. The county has been the inspiration ofpoets and painters: Joan Maragall dedicated a poem to the well-known Fageda d'en Jordà beech wood, and the celebrated OlotSchool of Landscape Painters produced some of the great namesof 19th- and 20th-century Catalan painting, such as Josep Bergai Boix and brothers Marià and Joaquim Vayreda.Olot is situated in the middle of the Natural Park and has muchto offer the visitor. The city boasts a long artistic tradition ofpainting, sculpture and religious imagery; the Montsacopa volcano,the Moixina wetlands and the Botanical Gardens provide interestfor nature-lovers; gastronomy and commerce complete theattractions.Various Modernist and Noucentista constructions grace the city,such as Casa Solà-Morales (restored by Domènech i Montaner),Casa Gaietà-Vila and Casa Gassiot among others; ecclesiasticalbuildings such as the church of Sant Esteve, the church of Marede Déu del Tura and the Renaissance-style cloisters in the carmelitaconvent; museums include the Garrotxa County Museum, situatedin the neoclassical Hospice, with paintings by members of theOlot School of Landscape Painters, the Volcano Museum and the18th-century Casa Trincheria manor house, open to the public.

From Olot, take the N-260 until reaching the C-38. Go towards Camprodon,which we will visit first before continuing the route to Ripoll and Puigcerdà.

CAMPRODON12

The industrial development of Ripoll together with the rise ofCamprodon as a tourist destination, largely due to one Dr Robertwho recommended the valley to his patients, together promotedthe construction of a number of Modernist houses in the area.Bourgeois families from Barcelona built houses in Camprodon(see Routes 1 and 12), mainly on Passeig de Maristany, of whichCan Oliveda, Can Torrent, El Casal, Can Winkle, Can Conde, CanCabot, Can Mas de Xeixàs, Can Guasch and Can Maristany arethe most outstanding.Camprodon also has a museum dedicated to the musician IsaacAlbéniz. The town is a superb starting point for excursions aroundthe valley of the same name.

OLOT11

The city of Girona has many medieval features, described in detailin Route 4.

Leave Girona from the north exit, and take the C-66 towards La Bisbald'Empordà. At Bordils turn off along the GIV-6701, passing the charming,peaceful village of Sant Martí Vell featuring a church dating from 1433 witha curious late Gothic spire; Madremanya, another delightful monumental site;Monells and Cruïlles. Back on the nearby C-66, we come to La Bisbal and Corçà.

MEDIEVAL TOWNSand VILLAGESFactsheet

CULTURAL HERITAGEThe age-old history of Girona is well represented inthe rich cultural and architectural heritage of themedieval towns and villages in the area.

ROUTE CHARACTERISTICSCircular route running from south to north.




The medieval period was of enormous importance in the Gironaarea, with history forged by the great monasteries and the smallindependent earldoms of Empúries, Peralada, Besalú and Girona,as witnessed by the wealth of walled towns, castles, Romanesqueand Gothic churches, palaces and other architectural treasures.This route goes through historical towns and villages, where theold world charm has either been preserved intact or combinesharmoniously with the present day. Look out for local craftworkand medieval fairs and markets. It should be noted that this routelinks up especially well with Route 9 (Castles and Ramparts) andRoute 1 (The Great Romanesque Route).

This is a typically medieval fortified village, with defence wallsenclosing irregular streets that converge onto the Main Square.The village grew up around the castle, with its elegant Gothicfaçade, and a magnificent donjon, one of the best of its kind inCatalonia. The Romanesque church of Sant Esteve is situatedoutside the walls.

Turn back along the same road and drive on to Ullastret, well known for thenearby Iberian settlement (see Route 11).

PERATALLADA3

GIRONA1

La Bisbal, capital of Baix Empordà county and large pottery centre,boasts a castle in the centre of the town (see Route 9), porticoedhouses, Main Square and old Jewish quarter. Together with thethree surrounding villages of Monells, Cruïlles and Corçà, this isan attractive route featuring stone houses, archivolts, ornamenteddoors and windows. Bars and restaurants are also in plentifulsupply. Monells and Cruïlles are both 2 km from La Bisbal, thesame distance that separates Monells and Corçà. The porticoedsquare is the main point of interest in Monells. However, by far themost interesting feature of the three villages is the 11th-12th-centuryRomanesque donjon in Cruïlles, with a height of 22.5 metres, acircumference of 24 metres and walls 2.39 metres thick. Cruïllesmonumental site includes the chapels of Esperança and Sant Joande Salelles. The 9th-century Benedictine monastery of SantMiquel, in Salelles district, conserves a Romanesque basilica anda fragment of the original cloister.

From La Bisbal, take the C-66 towards Palafrugell, turning off shortly ontothe GI-644 towards Peratallada.

MONELLS - CRUÏLLES - LA BISBAL -CORÇÀ2

Routedescription

Corçà

Monells

Peratallada

Sant Julià iSant Feliu de Boada

Ullastret

Pals


Peralada

FigueresBeuda

Besalú

Banyoles


Hostaletsd’en Bas

Girona

Cruïlles

Amer

Anglès

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The route starts at Blanes where there are two outstanding placesof interest. In a historical context, the return of wealthy “Indiano”families from the Americas propitiated the construction of severalbuildings containing Modernist elements, of which the mostnotable are Casa del Poble, an important cultural and politicalcentre until the outbreak of the Spanish Civil War, and CasaTordera with its bow window and window decorations. OtherModernist houses include Can Alemany, Casa de l'Estrella andCan Panxo Gordo.Do not leave the town without a visit to Marimurta BotanicalGardens, designed by Josep Goday for botanist Karl Faust in 1928and situated between Sant Francesc and Sa Forcanera coves.Today it is one of the most important gardens in Europe withover 6,000 vegetal species from all over the world. Pinya de RosaBotanical Gardens are located in another beautifully landscapedcorner of Blanes.

Lloret de Mar, one of the main tourist centres in Girona, is a townwith over one thousand years of history, as testified by the Iberiansettlement at Puig Castellet (see Route 11). Several architects ofthe Modernist period (Enric Monserdà, Bonaventura Conill and

The GREATMODERNIST ROUTEFactsheet

CULTURAL HERITAGEModernisme was a major artistic and culturalmovement that flourished at the beginning of the20th century. In Catalonia, Modernisme wasparticularly important in the field of architecture.

ROUTE CHARACTERISTICSTransverse route over the whole province, runningfrom south to north and from east to west.

MAIN ROUTEApproximately 380 kilometres

STARTING POINTWe start in Blanes, but given the overall length of theroute, the starting point can be at any of the followingcities: Girona, Figueres, Olot, Ripoll or Puigcerdà.


Modernisme (corresponding to Art Nouveau in France and Belgium,Jugendstil in Germany, Sezession in Austria, Modern Style in Englandand Stile Liberty in Italy) was a very important movement inCatalonia in painting and also in the decorative and graphic arts.However, Catalan Modernisme flourished above all in architecture,under famous names such as Antoni Gaudí, Lluís Domènech iMontaner, Josep Puig i Cadafalch and Rafael Masó.There are many outstanding Modernist buildings in the provinceof Girona, both in the cities and in summer resorts where theCatalan bourgeoisie constructed holiday houses in the style ofthe time.

LLORET DE MAR2

BLANES1

Routedescription



PalafrugellLa Bisbal d’Empordà

Caldes de Malavella

Olot

Camprodon

Ripoll

S’Agaró

Girona

Figueres

Blanes

TOSSA DE MAR. ROMAN VILLA AT ELS AMETLLERS6

This large Roman villa, dating from 1st century B.C. to 6th centuryA.D., is situated in the town of Tossa itself, opposite the formerSant Miquel Hospital, now Casa de Cultura. A large farmingestablishment where crops were grown and vineyards tended,it is the only one of its kind existing today along the coast. Thevilla is divided into two parts: the pars urbana dwelling area withnoble rooms, and the pars rustica area used for more practicalfarming purposes. The presence of thermal baths and a waterre-use system (unusual in this type of villa) are a nice exampleof the combination of practical farming with the luxury andcomfort of urban living. The municipal museum displays findingsfrom Els Ametllers villa, sculptures in Carrara marble and theextraordinary “Vitalis” mosaic.

Take the GI-682 to Lloret de Mar, turning off into a housing estate before the town. Just 500metres into the estate we find a necropolis with a stout prism-shaped Roman sepulchraltower called “Torre dels Avellaners”. The 4-metre high tower has a cylindrical receptaclewhere the ashes of the dead were deposited. Continuing on for about 2 km through the samehousing estate, there is an Iberian settlement at the top of the hill.

LLORET DE MAR. IBERIAN SETTLEMENTS AT PUIG CASTELLET AND MONTBARBAT7

Puig Castellet, Montbarbat and Turó Rodó sites in Lloret de Mar allbear witness to the presence of Iberian culture in the area: PuigCastellet is situated in a place with magnificent views over the coastalplain without actually being visible from the sea. The walled settlement,inhabited between 250 and 120 B.C., consists of 11 rectangular spaceswith one, two or three rooms a work area in each. In the central partthere is evidence of another construction that was used by thecommunity. The Montbarbat settlement, with an area of about 5,700m2, was inhabited between the 4th and the 2nd centuries B.C. Accessis from Nostra Senyora del Vilar sanctuary.

From Lloret take the C-63 and then the N-II until the GI-673 turnoff to Caldes de Malavella.

BANYOLES. PREHISTORIC CAVE PARK9

ROMAN ROAD AT CAPSACOSTA10

Ancient Roman engineering skills can be admired on the stretchof the old Empordà - Ripollès communications route that runsfrom Sant Pau de Segúries to La Vall de Bianya: two lines ofsquare or rectangular stone blocks flanking a causeway filledwith local stone.

Take the N-260 back towards Olot and then onto the A-26 to Sant Jaumede Llierca. Turn off towards Tortellà and the Llierca bridge. The bestknown archaeological site in the valley is the cave at Serrat del Pont.Cark park in the Llierca bridge. Take the A-26 back to Besalú (see Routes1, 4, 8 and 10) and from there back to Figueres.


8 CALDES DE MALAVELLA. ROMAN THERMAL BATHS AT PUIG DE ST. GRAU

The thermal baths, dating from the 1st century A.D., are classifiedas a Historical Monument of National Interest. Formerly AquisVoconis, later Aquae Calidae, this was a mandatory stop for travellersalong the Via Augusta, and is now considered of great historicalvalue. Today we can still see a large pool, high walls, the remainsof some outbuildings, and the nearly intact mechanism.

Go onto the AP-7 or the N-II, passing Girona and Sarrià de Ter until you reachSant Julià de Ramis. An Iberian settlement dating from the 5th-1st centuries B.C. iscurrently under excavation and thought to be one of the most important in thearea. There is a signposted path for visitors to walk around the site. Now takethe C-66 to Banyoles (see Route 7).

Situated near Banyoles, La Draga is a significant Palaeolithic andNeolithic lakeside site where archaeologists have found manyutensils, chiefly agricultural tools, in a perfect state of conservationdue to partial submersion in water. Just after Banyoles, there isthe prehistoric park in Serinyà where caves inhabited from thePalaeolithic right up to the Metal Age are open to the public,complete with audiovisual show and exhibition. Findings fromthe two sites are on display in the Archaeology Museum.

From Banyoles take the GI-524 to Santa Pau and Olot, crossing the NaturalPark of the Garrotxa Volcanic Area (see Routes 2, 7 and 8) and the VolcanoMuseum in Olot, a must for anybody interested in the subject. Take theC-26 to Sant Pau de Segúries.

VIC-OLOT HISTORIC HIGHWAY11

The 44-km historic road between Vic and Olot runs across thePlain of Vic, the Cabrerès area and the Plain of Olot. The formerhighway, almost completely signposted, conserves part of itsoriginal stone paving as well as some noteworthy constructionsalong the route. The central Les Marrades stretch is an impressivework of engineering built over very rough natural terrain.Experienced hikers can easily complete the whole highway inone day, but leisurely walkers may prefer to do it in two. Toaccess Les Marrades stretch of the highway directly, take the C-153 to Els Hostalets d'en Bas and continue on to Molí de l'Aubert.Park here and start the route, which climbs up slowly and steadilyfor 400 metres until reaching Hostal del Grau. Come down againthe same way, or else walk on to Falgars d'en Bas and take thesignposted track back down to Els Hostalets d’en Bas.

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The Vila Vella or Old Town in Tossa has one of the most importantmedieval ramparts in the whole of Catalonia, declared NationalHistorical-Artistic Monument in 1931 (see Routes 9 and 11). Overthe years, Tossa has left its mark on the art world and the townboasts several remarkable museums.The main Modernist building in the town is Casa Sans, designedby the architect Antoni de Falguera.

Follow the GI-682 until Sant Feliu de Guíxols.

TOSSA DE MAR3

This large tourist town and major Costa Brava fishing port hassome beautiful lookout points from which to admire the bay. Theold monastery (see Route 1) is a place of cultural reference. SantFeliu de Guíxols has some of the best Modernist heritage in theprovince of Girona. Notable buildings include Casino dels Noisand Casa Patxot designed by municipal architect General Guitarti Lostaló; the head office of “la Caixa” savings bank and Can Casa,both by Rafael Masó, and the Casas family vault by Puig i Cadafalch.The town cemetery is also worth a visit. Other Modernist elementscan be seen at Casa Estrada and Torre de les Punxes, in thedistrict of Sant Pol.

Follow the coast road past Sant Pol cove until you reach S'Agaró.

SANT FELIU DE GUÍXOLS4

S'AGARÓ5

We are now in one of the finest residential areas along the coast,where the Noucentista style can be seen on several houses ofgreat refinement and classical sobriety. The Hostal de la Gavinaand Senya Blanca were designed by Rafael Masó and FrancescFolguera respectively in S'Agaró estate.

Continue along the coast road, now C-253, and go through Platja d'Aro, SantAntoni de Calonge and Palamós. Modernist houses can also be seen on La Foscabeach, to the north of Palamós. Take the C-31 inland for a short distance toPalafrugell.

Puig i Cadafalch) designed interesting buildings in the town: theMare de Déu de Gràcia sanctuary, the church of Sant Romà, theSantíssim chapel, etc.In the cemetery overlooking the sea there are several Modernistvaults, such as that belonging to the Costa Macià family.We recommend a visit to the Santa Clotilde Gardens, designedby architect Nicolau Maria Rubió i Tudurí in 1919, at the heightof the Modernist period.

Drive along the twisting GI-682 past some of the most spectacular coves of theCosta Brava (stopping on the way at a lookout point to admire the view) untilyou reach Tossa de Mar.


LA BISBAL D'EMPORDÀ7

The Baix Empordà county capital is a town of great historicalimportance, centred around the castle (see Route 9). La Bisbalis a market town and a pottery centre (see Route 8), with someoutstanding Modernist buildings such as the Carreras-Dagashouse (now a small hotel in the centre of the town) and theformer El Mundial cinema. The Noucentista terrace of porticoedtown houses called Les Voltes is also of great architecturalinterest.

PALAFRUGELL6

Palafrugell is a large town with a lively weekly market, aninteresting cultural programme and an industrial history linkedto cork production (see Route 8). The writer Josep Pla was bornin Palafrugell and lived here for many years. A literary routetraces the places that gave inspiration for his works.Several Modernist houses can be seen in Palafrugell: Casa Almeda,Casa Miquel, the Casino, the La Económica Palafrugellensecooperative, the Cork Museum - Can Mario, etc.The nearby coves of Calella, Llafranc, Tamariu and Aigua Xelidaare among the most characteristic of the Costa Brava, along withothers situated to the north in the municipal district of Begur.Modernist houses were also built in these traditional summerholiday towns. Visitors will enjoy walking along the coastal pathsoverlooking coves of great natural beauty.

From Palafrugell take the C-66 to La Bisbal d'Empordà and from there continueon to Girona.

Routedescription


Darnius

Agullana

Roses

Sant Martíd’Empúries

Ullastret


Olot

Sant Paude Segúries

Girona

Figueres

We leave Figueres by the AP-7 or the N-II and head towards LaJonquera, taking the GI-602 to Espolla. Ask at the Albera NaturalPlace Information Centre about the megalithic routes in the area,with over 130 documented examples, mainly dolmens and menhirs.The Albera is also studded with Romanesque constructions (seeRoute 1) and castles like the one at Requesens (see Route 9).

Back on the main road, opposite the GI-602 turnoff, take the GI-502 to Darnius,near Boadella reservoir. A detour along the GI-500 brings us further up to Agullana.

BACK toOUR ROOTSFactsheet

CULTURAL HERITAGEThis route follows the main archaeological sites inthe Girona area, an exceptional heritage left to usby our most remote ancestors.

ROUTE CHARACTERISTICSCircular route running from south to north




The fertile lands of Girona have been inhabited since timeimmemorial, as witnessed by the many cultures and civilisationsthat have lived here throughout history, leaving behind themmegalithic monuments, prehistoric caves, Iberian settlements,Greco-Roman sites and much more. Our route visits somearchaeological sites to learn about these peoples and see thelandscape and customs that they bequeathed us, and culminatesin the classical ruins at Empúries, among the most important inSpain and situated in the very place where Greek and Romancivilisations entered the Iberian Peninsula.

At the well-known tourist market town of Roses, we will visit themonumental Citadel site (see Route 9), where we can see traces of theIberians, Greeks and Romans who settled here over the centuries: theHellenistic district dating from the 4th-3rd centuries B.C., a large Romanvilla, a medieval cemetery and a fortress from the Renaissance period.

Go back to Castelló d'Empúries and take the GIV-6216, driving through the marshes of the Aiguamolls de l'Empordà NaturalPark to the villages of Sant Pere Pescador and L'Armentera. Take a local road to Viladamat and from there the GI-623 to L'Escala.

ROSES. THE CITADEL3FIGUERES - MEGALITHIC ALBERA1

Darnius and Agullana are the starting points for the Salines-Bassegoda zone. Near Agullana there are some menhirs, dolmensand a necropolis. Romanesque constructions and castles in thisarea include the sanctuary of Mare de Déu de les Salines, Cabreracastle, Albanyà village and the walled Sant Llorenç de la Muga.

Return to Figueres and take the C-260 to Castelló d'Empúries and Roses.

SALINES-BASSEGODA MEGALITHIC ROUTE2

L'Escala is a seafaring, tourist town well-known for its traditionalanchovy salting industry. A pleasant coastal path eventually bringsus to Sant Martí d'Empúries (1.8 km), a charming little medieval villagewith a few houses clustered around the 10th-century church. Thesetting is idyllic, surrounded by green spaces and with pine grovesflanking the beach. This same coast walk was remodelled before theBarcelona Olympic Games in 1992 and it was here that the Olympicflame arrived to Catalonia, brought ashore at the very same placewhere the ancient Greeks had landed 2500 years earlier. The pathleads past the former Greek port and up to the archaeological site.Empúries was founded in the year 550 B.C., the first Greek colony onthe Iberian Peninsula. Construction of the Roman city started aroundthe year 100 B.C. on a site somewhat higher up. The museum is notvery large but displays interesting findings from the excavations andhas educational panels explaining the importance of the site and itslinks with the Iberian settlement at Ullastret.

From L'Escala we go back along the GI-623 until reaching the C-31 to Verges and on to Parlavà, where we turn lefttowards Torroella de Montgrí. Half way along this road, turn off onto the GI-644 for the Ullastret Iberian settlement.

EMPÚRIES ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE4

Banyoles

Salines-Bassegoda

Alberamountain

range

ULLASTRET. IBERIAN SETTLEMENT5

A visit to this site and the adjoining Archaeology Museum is a good wayto learn about the ancient Iberian civilisation that settled here in the 7thcentury B.C. The street plan of the walled village can still be clearly seenand the museum gives information on Iberian funerary rituals, socialactivities and so on.

Go southwards along the GI-644 towards La Bisbal, turning off onto the C-66 to Palafrugell. Drive down past the seaside village ofLlafranc and on up to Sant Sebastià lighthouse, 178 metres above sea level and commanding fantastic views along the coast. Nearbyare some minor remains of the Iberian settlement at Sant Sebastià de la Guarda. Go back to Palafrugell and onto the main road towardsPalamós. After a few kilometres there is a road to the left leading to Platja del Castell, one of the few unspoiled spots along the CostaBrava. Ruins of another Iberian settlement can be seen along the coast walk.Go back along the coast road to Platja d'Aro and turn inland to Castell d'Aro (see Route 9), where at Pla de Palol we find the remainsof a Roman villa dating from the 1st century B.C.. Now take a picturesque local road through the Gavarres mountains to Romanyàde la Selva, and have a look at the Cova d'en Daina dolmen. Go back down to Tossa de Mar on the coast.

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of the integration of medieval religious architecture into thesurrounding environment. Visitors can admire the castles, manorhouses and monasteries in the hamlets of Segueró, Palera andLligordà. The church of Sant Domènec de Palera, consecrated in1085, is particularly noteworthy, as is that of Sant Feliu de Beuda,with a 12th-century baptismal font decorated with figures in relief.

MOLLÓ AND BEGET6

In Molló we find the 12th-century church of Santa Cecília, featuringa four-story square bell tower and a lateral portal.Beget is a tiny village with an intact medieval structure whichearned it the status of Monumental Historic Heritage. The mostnoteworthy construction in the hamlet is the 10th-century churchof Sant Cristòfol, one of the finest Romanesque chapels in thearea, with a slender, four-storied bell tower 22 metres high. TheChrist in Majesty of Beget is venerated here, a valuable 12th-century polychrome wood carving of a crowned Christ in a fulllength tunic, considered one of the best Romanesque sculpturesof its kind.

From Beget, the route takes you into the Garrotxa county. There are severaldifferent options:a) Go back down the C-38 for a short while until the C-26 and head towardsOlot, until the turn-off to Sant Joan les Fonts (with its Romanesque monastery)and Castellfollit de la Roca. Take the GIV-5221 up to Oix.b) Go back down the C-38 until Sant Pau de Segúries and take a dirt trackto Bac Valley, looking out for small Romanesque hermitages along the way.From there continue on to Oix.c) Take the dirt track from Beget leading directly to Oix.

ALTA GARROTXA COUNTY7

The Alta Garrotxa covers a large area of the Pre-Pyrenees, with arugged countryside of great natural beauty, protected as a Space ofNatural Interest. All this provides a huge range of options for hikersand nature-lovers alike, which can be combined with a visit to someof the many small Romanesque hermitages dotted all over the area.If you are driving, the best option is to take the C-38 (Sant Pau deSegúries - Molló) and the N-260 (La Vall de Bianya - Castellfollit de laRoca - Besalú - Figueres) and branch off along any of the secondaryroads leading up to the small, charming villages of Beget, Oix, Montagut,Sadernes, Tortellà, Sales de Llierca and Beuda.

Oix was the capital of the Alta Garrotxa until 1972, but relinquishedthe title in favour of Montagut due to depopulation of the town. Byvirtue of its castle, Oix boasts a past of considerable importancebetween the Moorish period and the 15th century. The remains of thecastle and the 12th-century parish church of Sant Llorenç are bothjewels of Romanesque art. The medieval bridge is also worthy of note.

Beuda is a village of Romanesque origin and a perfect example

BESALÚ8

In 1966 the magnificent town of Besalú was declared a NationalHistorical-Artistic Site on account of its architectural value and ofits history under the Counts of Besalú. The town maintained itsindependence until it came under the rule of the Counts of Barcelona.For many centuries Besalú was home to a Jewish community (seeRoute 4) and an example of the coexistence between Jewish andChristian cultures. The centre of the town is medieval with manydistinguishing features, as for example the Romanesque bridge, theRoyal Curia, the Hospital of Sant Julià, the Plaça de la Llibertat,several churches and other buildings which together make up thisextraordinary medieval site (see Route 10).

SECONDARY ROUTE I: From Besalú, we can make a detour from the main route and take theC-66 towards Banyoles and Porqueres where, right beside Banyoles Lake, the church of SantaMaria provides us with a magnificent example of Romanesque architecture. Several otherhermitages and churches are dotted over Pla de l'Estany county. From Porqueres we can goon up to Mieres and Santa Pau, good examples of medieval villages (see Route 7).We now come to the monumental city of Girona, where it is well worth taking the time to appreciatethe wide range of cultural and artistic attractions as well as the leisure and shopping facilities available.Romanesque constructions include the renowned Arab Baths; the mainly Gothic Cathedral whichnevertheless conserves Romanesque elements such as the former bell tower, also known as Charlemagne'sTower (dating from the 11th century, the five-story Lombard-style tower was retained as a buttressto support the later Gothic construction of the Cathedral); the church of Sant Nicolau and themagnificent monastery of Sant Pere de Galligants, now housing the city Archaeology Museum. In theCathedral museum we find the Creation Tapestry, the most important Romanesque textile existingin the world. Dating from the first half of the 12th century, the large tapestry (12 m2) shows an intricateiconographic pattern that reflects influences from many different sources. (See Routes 2, 4 and 10).From Girona take the GI-531 towards Llémena Valley, where we find the Romanesque churches of Sant Martí andSant Esteve de Llémena, set in a landscape that is surprisingly natural given its proximity to the city of Girona. Thisroad ends on reaching the C-63 at Les Planes d'Hostoles. Continue on towards Amer, site of the 10th-centuryBenedictine monastery of Santa Maria, of which only the Romanesque church and the former cloister remaintoday. The Main Square in Amer is the second largest porticoed square in Catalonia. Continue on down to Anglèsand then take the GI-542 into the heart of La Selva county, known for its springs and mineral waters. We reachOsor, with a 12th-century Benedictine priory in the Mare de Déu del Coll sanctuary, and continue on towardsSant Hilari Sacalm, the “town of the thousand springs” and starting point for numerous hiking trails and othermountain activities in the Guilleries Massif. Take the GI-550 down towards Arbúcies, also worth a visit, and thenthe GI-552 to Breda. Breda is one of the main pottery manufacturing towns in the province of Girona (see Route8). The most striking sight in the historic town centre is the slender 32-metre high bell tower, the only remainingfeature of the former Romanesque monastery of Sant Salvador. From Breda, we can go into the MontsenyNatural Park and up to Riells, where we find another Romanesque church and many superb hiking trails. Bredais very near the Barcelona-Girona-Figueres AP-7 motorway.

The GREATROMANESQUE ROUTE

At Ripoll take the N-152 to Campdevànol, from where either goto Gombrèn (see Route 5) or else follow the road on to Ribes deFreser, with its ruined castle and reconstructed church of SantaMaria which still retains three original Lombard Romanesqueapses. A rack-and-pinion railway runs a regular service up toNúria valley.From Ribes de Freser there are three recommended secondaryroutes:

a)Take the GIV-5263 to Bruguera and a forest track throughJou pass to Ogassa, from where the GIV-5211 brings us backto Sant Joan de les Abadesses. This is a route of greatnatural beauty.

b)Take the GIV-5262 to Pardines, a typical high Pyrenean villagewith an intact medieval structure and magnificent views.Nearby there is the Romanesque church of Santa Magdalenade Puigsac, with a panoramic view of Ribes valley.

c)Take the GIV-4011 for 6 km, winding 230 metres up to thevillage of Campelles (at an altitude of 1,145 metres), wherethere is a spa and a church of Romanesque origin. Nearby ElBaell hamlet is worth a trip to see the vistas and enjoy thepeace and quiet. It is a good starting point for hiking trails.

RIBES VALLEY (see Routes 1 and 5)3

CERDANYA (see Routes 1 and 6)5

Some of the main villages in Cerdanya (Llívia, Alp, Bellver deCerdanya) have already been mentioned in Routes 1 and 6. Wenow suggest continuing along the N-260 towards Bellver deCerdanya and La Seu d'Urgell, turning just after Ger. Drive alongthe GIV-4031 up to Meranges, a typical mountain village withhiking trails leading to Malniu lakes and to Guils-Fontanera cross-country ski resort.At Meranges there is also an interesting Clog Museum.

From Camprodon we can either go up to Molló and Beget, twocharming villages with a magnificent Romanesque heritage, orelse follow the course of the River Ter along the GIV-5264 toLlanars, Vilallonga de Ter and Setcases. Although not includedin Route 1, Setcases has a 12th-century Romanesque church witha baroque altar. The town is also one of the gastronomic centresof the Pyrenees.Continue on along the same picturesque road to Vallter andVallter 2000 ski resort. At this point we recommend taking theGR-11 hiking trail that winds up through mountain meadows andpastures to reach Ulldeter and the source of the River Ter.

Go back to Camprodon and down to Sant Joan de les Abadesses. Take thepicturesque GI-521 through the Sentigosa pass (1,064 metres) to Vallfogonade Ripollès. Take a leisurely look around the village and its woodedsurroundings. Points of interest include La Sala Castle, with a seven-storiedtower; the well-conserved medieval village centre, the old bridge and achurch that was originally Romanesque.Now take the N-260 to Ripoll.

CAMPRODON VALLEY (see Route 1)2

The rack-and-pinion railway line affords impressive views on itsway up to the spectacular Núria valley, situated at an altitude of2,000 metres above sea level and surrounded by 3,000-metrepeaks. It is the starting point for many hikes and excursions.There is a small, family-oriented ski resort in the valley. One ofthe main points of interest is the sanctuary, with its Romanesquewood carving of the Madonna of Núria.

Go back again to Ribes de Freser and take the N-152 through the Toses passto Puigcerdà, capital of Cerdanya. The road goes high up over the mountainsand tyre chains are often required in winter. The route passes the charmingvillages of Planoles, Dòrria and Toses (see Route 1) and turnoffs to La Molinaand Masella, major ski resorts in winter and mountain activity centres insummer, before reaching Puigcerdà.

NÚRIA VALLEY4


Take the GIV-5217 to the picturesque mountain village of Queralbs. The southportal of the 12th-century Romanesque church is one of the best examplesof Catalan Romanesque porches. Cars cannot drive beyond this point up toNúria sanctuary, to which access is only by hiking trails (difficult in winter)and by the rack-and-pinion railway, which also stops in Queralbs.

11

With a long history as the former seat of the Counts of Peralada,the town is now a major medieval monumental site that requires aleisurely visit (see Route 10). Romanesque art is represented by thecloister of the former 12th-13th-century convent of Sant Domènec,a place of great beauty with outstanding columns and capitals.

Continue along the C-252 until Garriguella, and then take the GIV-6032 toVilamaniscle. Halfway between Vilamaniscle and Rabós d'Empordà, there is atrack leading to the monastery of Sant Quirze de Colera.

From Besalú we follow the N-260 towards Figueres, stopping atNavata to see the former 12th-century church known as CanMiró, called after a nearby farmhouse. From Navata, the GIP-5239 leads up to the village of Lladó. The church of Sant Feliucan be visited by asking for the key at the Town Hall. The 12th-century monastery of Santa Maria de Lladó, originally anAugustinian canonry and nowadays still lived in by nuns, featuresa portal with highly ornamented archivolts.A track leads from Lladó to Cistella, which can also be reachedby turning off onto the GIP-5101 a little bit further along the N-260. The little church of Santa Maria de Cistella was firstdocumented in 978 and although now reconstructed, stillconserves a Romanesque façade.From Cistella go on up the GIP-5101 until the GI-510, and from thereon towards Albanyà, where we find the 14th-century neo-RomanesqueMare de Déu del Mont sanctuary, situated at a height of 1123 metres.Go back along the same road until Figueres (see Route 3). Takethe C-252 for one kilometre to reach Vilabertran, and from therecontinue on to Peralada.

MAIN ROUTE: THE BESALÚ - FIGUERES AXIS9

MONASTERY OF SANTA MARIA DE VILABERTRAN10

This magnificent Romanesque site was originally an Augustiniancanonry and contains three outstanding elements: the 11th-centurychurch with a central nave flanked by two aisles, the 12th-centuryLombard bell tower and the 12th-13th-century cloister. King JaumeII married Blanca d'Anjou here in the year 1295.A 14th-century cross, considered one of the jewels of Catalansilverwork, can be seen in one of the chapels. Schubertian concertsand other musical events are held every year in the monastery.

MONASTERY OF SANT QUIRZE DE COLERA12

The former Benedictine monastery, now in ruins, contains vestigesfrom different periods, such as the 10th-11th-century church andthe cloister. At a distance of 200 metres from the monastery thereis the 12th-13th-century church of Santa Maria de Colera.We are now very near the Albera Natural Place of National Interest,a mountain range studded with over 130 megalithic monuments(dolmens, menhirs. etc.). Itineraries can be found in any of the localtourist offices and at the information points in the Natural Place.

Go back along the GI-603 until you reach the N-260. Follow the main road to Llançàand take the coast road towards Colera and then on to Portbou, site of the PassagenMemorial dedicated to the European exiles of World War II and to German philosopherWalter Benjamin, who died here while fleeing from the Nazis. We can also findinformation here on other exiles' routes such as those taken by Republicans duringthe Spanish Civil War. Back again in Llançà, take the GI-612 towards El Port de laSelva, turning off at the signpost to the monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes.

MONASTERY OF SANT PERE DE RODES13

Sant Pere de Rodes monastery is situated in the Verdera mountainrange, overlooking the sea with magnificent views of the coastand Cap de Creus. The monastery dates from the year 878 andwas lived in by monks until 1789. Although the origins are uncertain,the building was largely constructed between the 10th and 12thcenturies, the highpoint of the age of Romanesque splendour. Thechurch is of a type unique to Catalan Romanesque architecture.The monastery, the church of Santa Helena and the remains ofVerdera castle and settlement constitute this magnificentmonumental site, with which we conclude The Great Romanesqueroute. In the monastery you will also find one of the Cap de CreusNatural Park tourist information offices (see Route 3).

SECONDARY ROUTE II: Go back to Figueres, then onto the N-II, turning off along C-31 until Torroellade Fluvià. From there take the GIV-6216 to see the 12th-13th-century priory of Sant Tomàs de Fluviàwith its notable paintings, and the Benedictine monastery of Sant Miquel de Fluvià dating from 1045.(Ask for the key at the shop opposite). Go back along the C-31 and follow the Verges - Torroellade Montgrí - Pals route (Routes 9 and 10). Just off the GI-651, on the way to Pals, we find themedieval villages of Sant Julià de Boada with its pre-Romanesque church, Palau-sator, Peratallada (seeRoute 10) and Canapost where the church of Sant Esteve has juxtaposed pre-Romanesque andRomanesque constructions. Take the C-66 through La Bisbal d'Empordà, a pottery and shoppingcentre (see Routes 8 and 9), and turn off to Cruïlles, another medieval village (see Route 10) withan old Benedictine monastery dating from the 12th century. Turn around and go back to La Bisbaland take the GI-660 over the Gavarres mountains and over to the Costa Brava (Palamós, Calongeand Platja d'Aro) dropping down to the seaside town of Sant Feliu de Guíxols, thus ending thissecondary route. In this town we find some outstanding Modernist houses (Route 2) and a monasteryconstructed in different architectural styles over Romanesque foundations. Sant Feliu de Guíxolsis host to the annual summer Porta Ferrada Music Festival.

PERALADA11


Leave Figueres and head north along the N-II until the GIP-5107turnoff to Sant Llorenç de la Muga, a walled village with aRomanesque church and an old bridge. Follow the road on to theend, where there are several hermitages, sanctuaries andmonasteries dotted around the municipal district of Albanyà.This is also a starting point for climbing the Puig de Bassegoda(1,374 m). Drive back to the N-II and head towards La Jonquerauntil the GI-502 turnoff to Darnius, starting point for a trip toBoadella reservoir. Drive on to Maçanet de Cabrenys, formerfortified town with a late Romanesque church, and starting pointfor excursions to various places such as the sanctuary of Marede Déu de les Salines, 12 km along a forest track.

Go back to Figueres and take the N-260 to Besalú (Routes 1, 4, 8 and 10),Castellfollit de la Roca and Olot, branching off on the way to visit the villagesof Beuda, Oix, Sant Joan les Fonts and Santa Pau. (See Routes 1, 7 and 10).From Olot, take the C-26 and then the C-38 to Sant Pau de Segúries andCamprodon.

Traditional ARCHITECTUREin the PYRENEESFactsheet

CULTURAL HERITAGEThis route explores small Pyrenean towns and villageswhere the traditional way of life is still kept alive,and other places that are more associated withwinter sports and mountain activities.



STARTING POINTFigueres. The route can also start in Ripoll orPuigcerdà.


The Girona Pyrenees stretch over a large area along the northof the province. Between the high peaks in Cerdanya and Cap deCreus Natural Park there are many places of interest: thespectacular valleys of Camprodon, Ribes, Núria and Cerdanya;villages where the architecture and activities traditionally linkedto the Pyrenean economy are still conserved; and other placesthat have found a new means of livelihood in ski resorts andmountain tourism. For maximum enjoyment, it is recommendedto alternate motoring with hiking trails, and to carry correctwalking equipment. This route is ideally combined with the GreatRomanesque Route (Route 1).

FIGUERES - SALINES-BASSEGODA1

Routedescription

Girona

FigueresCamprodon

Ripoll

Ribes de Freser


Puigcerdà Salines-Bassegoda


Albanyà

12

34

1

8 37

Pirineu de GironaG

i

Sculpture parks

Sant Quirze de Colera

The route starts in Puigcerdà, the capital of Cerdanya county and maincultural, trade and leisure centre of the area, a charming town whichis well worth a visit. Places of interest include the bell tower of thechurch of Santa Maria, the former convent of Sant Domènec, PlaçaCabrinetty, and some of the houses in the park and around the lake.This is also the starting point for Route 6, the Cerdanya stretchof the Road to Santiago that leads towards La Seu d'Urgell andpasses one Romanesque sanctuary and several Romanesquechurches along the way.However, this route starts in Puigcerdà and leads in the oppositedirection, towards Ripoll.

At Puigcerdà take the GIV-4035 until you get to Guils de Cerdanya where there is the12th-century church of Sant Esteve, with its magnificent portal and large wall belfrywith three openings.Go back to Puigcerdà and take the N-152 down towards Alp. In the town centre thereis the church of Sant Pere, of huge dimensions, with a central nave flanked by twoaisles, and a square bell tower. The church, however, has been considerably transformed.Go back to the N-152 onto the Toses pass, a typical mountain road where tyre chainsare often needed for winter motoring.

On the last stretch of this road we come to the large municipalityof Toses, comprising Fornells, Dòrria, Nevà and Toses villages,and the municipality of Planoles, with nearby Planès hamlet.These villages have great character and are a starting point forhiking trips and excursions around this beautiful landscape, whichis well worth a visit.Each village boasts its own Romanesque church: Sant Martí deFornells, Sant Víctor de Dòrria with its Romanesque paintings,Sant Cristòfol de Nevà, Sant Cristòfol de Toses also withRomanesque paintings, Sant Marcel de Planès and Sant Vicençde Planoles.These rural churches, often situated in isolated areas, are usually

The GREATROMANESQUE ROUTEFactsheet

CULTURAL HERITAGERomanesque art grew up around the greatmonasteries between the 10th and the 13th centuriesand spread all over the Catalan Pyrenees and thePre-Pyrenees. Today there is a rich Romanesquecultural heritage centred mainly on hermitages,churches and monasteries.

ROUTE CHARACTERISTICSTransverse route over the whole province, withdifferent stretches and alternative routes.

ROUTESMain route: 320 km approximately (depending onthe towns and villages visited on the way)Secondary route I: 135 kmSecondary route II: 85 km

STARTING POINTGiven the overall length and the different stretchesof the route, the starting point can be at any maincity: Puigcerdà, Ripoll, Girona or Figueres.


Throughout the Middle Ages, Romanesque art enjoyed an age ofsplendour all over the Catalan Pyrenees. Romanesque is anaustere form of art with Lombard and Byzantine influences, andperfectly in keeping with its natural surroundings. There are notonly a multitude of small rural churches scattered all over theGirona area, but also many large Romanesque monasteries thatplayed a vital role in the history of Catalonia. Among othermonasteries, Santa Maria de Ripoll, Sant Joan de les Abadessesand Sant Pere de Rodes make up an exceptional trilogy aroundwhich grew up towns of great historical importance.

TOSES2Puigcerdà

Toses

Ripoll


Camprodon

Molló and Beget

Alta Garrotxa

Peralada

Vilabertran

Figueres

Sant Pere de Rodes

Routedescription

PUIGCERDÀ1

Girona

Besalú

FESTIVALS DECLAREDOF NATIONAL INTEREST

Holy ThursdayGood FridayEaster MondayPentecost Saturday, Sunday and MondaySunday before Corpus Christi8 SeptemberDecember

DATEDance of DeathLiving Way of the CrossPlantada de l'Arbre del Maig and Ball del CornutHobby Horse danceFloral carpet festivalVirgin of TuraNativity plays and tableaux

ACTIVITYVergesSant Hilari SacalmCornellà del TerriSant Feliu de PallerolsArbúciesOlotGeneral

TOWN

SilsSalvador Claret Automobile CollectionCtra. N-II, km 698 · Tel. +34 972 853 036 · Fax +34 972 853 [email protected] · www.museuautomobilsclaret.com

Torroella de MontgríCan Quintana-Museum of the MediterraneanC/ d'Ullà, 27-31 · Tel. +34 972 755 180 · Fax +34 972 755 [email protected] · www.museudelamediterrania.catPalau Solterra Painting GalleryC/ de l'Església, 10 · Tel. +34 972 761 976 · Fax +34 972 760 [email protected] · www.fundacionvilacasas.cat

Tossa de MarMediterranean Lighthouse Interpretative CentrePl. del Far, s/n · Tel. +34 972 343 359www.tossademar.cat/esfardetossaCan Ganga Ethnography MuseumC/ del Codolar, 4 · Tel. +34 972 343 359www.tossademar.cat/cangangaTossa Municipal Museum (works by Chagall)Pl. de Roig i Soler, 1 (Vila Vella) · Tel. +34 972 340 709 · Fax +34 972 341 [email protected] · www.tossademar.cat/museu

UllastretArchaeology Museum of Catalonia - UllastretPuig de Sant Andreu, s/n · Tel. +34 972 179 058 [email protected] · www.mac.es

Santa Coloma de FarnersTrias Biscuit MuseumCtra. de Sils, 36 · Tel. +34 972 841 213 · Fax +34 972 842 [email protected] · www.triasbiscuits.com

Sant Hilari SacalmGuilleries MuseumPl. del Doctor Robert, s/n (edifici La Cooperativa) · Tel. +34 972 869 [email protected] · www.santhilari.cat

Santa Cristina d'Aro“House of Magic” Magic Museum - Xevi CollectionAv. de l'Església, 1 · Tel. +34 972 837 209 · Fax +34 972 837 [email protected] · www.xevi-ilusionista.com

DasDas Museum CollectionPg. de Rossend Arús, 3 - Ajuntament · Tel. +34 972 890 220 · Fax +34 972 890 [email protected] · www.ddgi.es/das

GombrènCount Arnau MuseumC/ del Carbasser, 3 · Tel. +34 972 730 300 · Fax +34 972 712 [email protected] · www.gombren.cat

LlíviaMunicipal MuseumC/ dels Forns, 10 · Tel. +34 972 896 [email protected] · www.llivia.com

MerangesClog MuseumPl. Major, 3 · Tel. +34 972 880 054 · Fax +34 972 880 054 ·[email protected]


Sant Joan de les Abadesses Monastery MuseumPl. de l'Abadia · Tel. +34 972 722 [email protected] · www.santjoandelesabadesses.com

TosesShepherd's MuseumCal Pastor - C/ del Camí del Pelós, 2 · Tel. +34 972 736 [email protected] · www.toses.cat

OlotCan Trincheria Manor House MuseumC/ de Sant Esteve, 29 · Tel. +34 972 271 [email protected] · www.olot.cat/culturaGarrotxa County MuseumC/ de l'Hospici, 8 · Tel. +34 972 271 166 · Fax +34 972 273 [email protected] · www.olot.cat/culturaMuseum of SaintsC/ de Joaquim Vayreda, 9 · Tel. +34 972 266 [email protected] · www.museusants.catVolcano MuseumCtra. de Santa Coloma, 43 · Tel. +34 972 266 762 · Fax +34 972 270 [email protected] · www.olot.cat/culturaOlot Parish MuseumCasa Rectoral · Tel. +34 972 260 474

RipollPalau ForgePg. de la Farga Catalana, 14-16 · Tel. +34 972 714 142 · Fax +34 972 702 [email protected] · www.ajripoll.comRipoll Ethnography MuseumPl. de l'Abat Oliba, s/n · Tel. +34 972 703 [email protected] · www.museuderipoll.org

Cassà de la SelvaParc Art (Contemporary Art Collection)Veïnat de Matamala · Tel. +34 972 463 [email protected] · www.parcart.net

PorqueresCan Ginebreda WoodCtra. de Mieres, km 25 · Tel. +34 972 582 [email protected] · www.canginebreda.com

Calella de PalafrugellCap Roig GardensParatge de Cap Roig, s/n · Tel. +34 972 614 [email protected] · www.obrasocial.lacaixa.es

9

closed to the public and visitors must ask for the key. It is advisableto seek information in the Tourist Office or in the local Town Hallif you wish to see the interior of the churches.We are now in Ribes Valley, where Romanesque churches arealso to be found in Campelles, Queralbs, Pardines and Fustanyàvillages. Our main route, however, brings us on towards Ripoll.

Follow the N-152 until Ribes de Freser and from there continue on until Ripoll.

Ripoll is a county capital with a rich historical heritage, closelylinked to the Benedictine monastery of Santa Maria, one of thebest examples of Catalan Romanesque art and of great importancein the history of Catalonia.In more recent times, the local ironworks developed a lightfirearm industry in the area. Nowadays Ripoll is an importanttrading and commercial centre, as well as being a starting pointfor excursions to the Pyrenean valleys. In the town itself we canfind remains of the old ramparts and of one of the former citygates and several houses of interest. Visitors will gain an insightinto the tangible and intangible heritage of local society at RipollEthnography Museum, with its outstanding collections on themesrelated to herding, farming, trades, religious beliefs and practices,the Catalan forge and the wrought iron industry, as well as thelight firearms traditionally manufactured in the area.Monastery of Santa Maria. The monastery was founded in the 9thcentury by Count Guifré el Pelós. The importance of the monasterylibrary and the Counts' pantheon made it one of the main culturalcentres of medieval Europe until the year 1162. Several noble foundersof the Catalan dynasty are buried here, including the selfsame CountGuifré el Pelós. For this reason, Ripoll was the capital of so-called OldCatalonia, true cradle of Catalan identity. The monastery portal issculpted in stone and depicts scenes from the lives of King David andKing Solomon, Moses and the prophets, and is considered one of themajor works of European Romanesque art. The two-storied cloisteris extraordinarily beautiful and is enhanced by richly ornamentedcapitals. Since construction of the monastery continued until the 16thcentury, only the north gallery is purely Romanesque. The LombardRomanesque church features noteworthy wall decoration. Thescriptorium is well worth a visit, where a permanent interactiveexhibition illustrates the lives of medieval copyists and allows visitorsto practise the arts of the scribes, such as calligraphy and illumination,and to experiment with authentic materials as used in the Middle Ages.Take the C-26 for 10 km until you reach Sant Joan de les Abadesses, followingthe course of the River Ter.

RIPOLL. MONASTERY OF SANTA MARIA3

Like Ripoll, the history of Sant Joan de les Abadesses is closelylinked to that of the monastery around which the town grew up.A stroll around the town centre is highly recommended to see arare example of medieval town planning and interesting sightssuch as the Old Bridge; the 15th- century Abbot's Palace, with itsRomanesque-style Tosca Hall; the remains of the ramparts andthe porticoed Plaça Major (Main Square) surrounded by baroquebuildings. A large market is held on the square every week.The monastery of Sant Joan (Saint John) was also founded byCount Guifré el Pelós, who placed his daughter Emma as abbessof the Benedictine community. The monastery houses the SacredMystery group of sculptures composed of seven life-sized figures,considered a unique example of the 13th-century transition periodfrom Romanesque to Gothic-style sculpture.Also worthy of note are the cloister and other Gothic-styleelements of the monastery such as the Santa Maria la Blancaand Sant Agustí altarpieces.The monastery museum displays Romanesque and sacred artworks as well as a collection of scale models of Romanesqueconstructions in the Ripollès county.

First continue along the C-26 and then take the C-38, leaving Ribes Valley behind as you enterCamprodon Valley, another place of great natural beauty and a starting point for hiking trails,excursions and winter sports. A separate Romanesque route through this valley passes Setcases,Tregurà, Vilallonga, Abella and La Roca. Our main route, however, leads on to Camprodon.

SANT JOAN DE LES ABADESSES.MONASTERY OF SANT JOAN

4

CAMPRODON5

The town of Camprodon is a major tourism centre with interestingconstructions such as the emblematic Romanesque-style New Bridge,the Gothic church of Santa Maria and the remains of the ramparts,as well as several Modernist houses and the well-known PasseigMaristany of the same style.Monastery of Sant Pere. Although not as important as the above,the monastery features a bell tower with an unusual octagonal baseand an exceptionally wide nave.

Although the main route continues along the C-38 towards Molló, it is worthwhilemaking a short detour along the GIV-5264 to Llanars to see the 12th-century churchof Sant Esteve, a magnificent example of Romanesque architecture, completelysurrounded by village houses.Go back to Camprodon and take the C-38 towards Molló. Then continue downthe same road until the GIV-5223 that will bring you to the hamlet of Beget.


MUSEUMS

36

G

i

GironaArab BathsC/ de Ferran el Catòlic, s/n · Tel. +34 972 190 797 · [email protected] · www.banysarabs.catCasa MasóC/de les Ballesteries, 29 · Tel. +34 972 413 [email protected] · www.rafaelmaso.orgArchaeology Museum of Catalonia - GironaPl. de Santa Llúcia · Tel. +34 972 202 632 · Fax +34 972 210 [email protected] · www.mac.esGirona Art Museum (Md'A)Pda. de la Catedral, 12 · Tel. +34 972 203 834 · Fax +34 972 227 [email protected] · www.museuart.comMuseum of Jewish History - Bonastruc Ça PortaC/ de la Força, 8 · Tel. +34 972 216 761 · Fax +34 972 214 [email protected] · www.girona.cat/callGirona City History MuseumC/ de la Força, 27 · Tel. +34 972 222 229 · Fax +34 972 206 989

La JonqueraM.U.M.E., Exile Memorial MuseumC/ Major, 43-47 · Tel. +34 972 556 533 · Fax +34 972 556 [email protected] · www.museuexili.cat

La Bisbal d'EmpordàTerracotta MuseumC/ del Sis d'Octubre de 1869, 99 · Tel. +34 972 642 067 · Fax +34 972 646 [email protected]

[email protected] · www.girona.cat/museuciutatCinema MuseumC/ de la Séquia, 1 · Tel. +34 972 412 777 · Fax +34 972 413 [email protected] · www.museudelcinema.orgGirona Cathedral Treasury MuseumPl. de la Catedral, s/n · Tel. +34 972 427 189 · Fax +34 972 215 [email protected] · www.catedraldegirona.org

Costa Brava

Palau-satorRural MuseumC/ d’Extramurs, 1 · Tel. +34 972 634 125 · Fax +34 972 635 [email protected] · www.maspou.com

PeraladaPeralada Castle MuseumPl. del Carme, s/n · Tel. +34 972 538 [email protected] · www.museucastellperalada.com

SaltWater MuseumC/ de Sant Antoni, 1 - Edifici Factoria Cultural Coma CrosTel. +34 972 402 148 · Fax +34 972 402 148 · [email protected] · www.viladesalt.cat

Sant Feliu de GuíxolsCity History MuseumPl. del Monestir, s/n · Tel. +34 972 821 575 · Fax +34 972 821 [email protected] · www.guixols.cat/museuHistory of Toys MuseumRbla. Vidal, 48-50 · Tel. +34 972 822 249 · Fax +34 972 322 [email protected] · www.museudelajoguina.catLifeguard MuseumPda. de Guíxols, s/n (turó del Fortim) · Tel. +34 972 820 167 · Fax +34 972 821 [email protected] · www.guixols.cat

ArbúciesLa Gabella-Montseny Ethnology MuseumC/ Major, 6 · Tel. +34 972 860 908 · Fax +34 972 860 [email protected] · www.museuetnologicmontseny.org

BesalúBesalú Miniature and Micro-miniature MuseumPl. del Prat de Sant Pere, 15 · Tel. +34 972 591 [email protected] · www.museuminiaturesbesalu.com

CadaquésSalvador Dalí House-MuseumPortlligat · Tel. +34 972 251 015 · Fax +34 972 251 [email protected] · www.salvador-dali.org/museus/portlligat/esCadaqués Municipal MuseumC/ de Narcís Monturiol, 15 · Tel. +34 972 258 [email protected] · www.cadaques.org

CapmanyTap MuseumC/ de la Roca, 3 · Tel. +34 972 549 012 · Fax +34 972 549 [email protected] · www.grupoliveda.comCastelló d'Empúries

Curia-PrisonPl. de Jaume I, s/n · Tel. +34 972 156 233 · Fax +34 972 158 [email protected] · www.castello.catFarinera Eco-museumC/ de Sant Francesc, 5-7 · Tel. +34 972 250 512 · Fax +34 972 158 [email protected] · www.castello.catCastelló d'Empúries Parish MuseumPl. de Mossèn Cinto Verdaguer, s/n · Tel. +34 972 158 [email protected] · www.catedraldecastello.com

FigueresEmpordà MuseumRambla, 2 · Tel. +34 972 502 305 · Fax +34 972 510 [email protected] · www.museuemporda.orgEmpordà Technical MuseumC/ dels Fossos, 12 · Tel. +34 972 508 820 · Fax +34 972 510 765 · [email protected] · www.mte.catToy Museum of CataloniaC/ de Sant Pere, 1 (Hotel París) · Tel. +34 972 504 585 · Fax +34 972 676 [email protected] · www.mjc.catDalí Theatre-MuseumPl. de Gala-Salvador Dalí, 5 · Tel. +34 972 677 500 · Fax 972 501 [email protected] · www.salvador-dali.org

Castell-Platja d'AroDoll MuseumC/ de Lluís Companys, 1 · Tel. +34 972 817 179 · Fax +34 972 825 [email protected] · www.platjadaro.com

L'EscalaMotorbike Museum - Vicenç Folgado CollectionClosa d'en Llop, 9-11 · Tel. +34 972 774 302 · [email protected] Museum of Catalonia - EmpúriesApt. de correus 21 · C/ de Puig i Cadafalch, s/n · Tel. +34 972 770 208Fax +34 972 775 975 · [email protected] · www.mac.catAnchovy and Salt MuseumAv. de Francesc Macià, 1 · Tel. +34 972 776 815 · Fax +34 972 773 [email protected] · www.anxova-sal.cat

LlagosteraEmili Vilà i Gorgoll House-MuseumC/ de Sant Pere, 25-27 · Tel. +34 972 830 253 · www.museuvila.com

LlançàJ. Martínez Lozano Museum of Water Paintings · Casa de CulturaPl. Major · Tel. +34 972 121 470 · Fax +34 607 462 600 · [email protected] · www.mda.cat

PalafrugellCork MuseumC/ de Pi i Margall, 26-28 · Tel. +34 972 307 825 · Fax +34 972 302 [email protected] · www.museudelsuro.catJosep Pla FoundationC/ Nou, 51 · Tel. +34 972 305 [email protected] · www.fundaciojoseppla.catPalamósFishing MuseumMoll Pesquer, s/n · Tel. +34 972 600 424 · Fax +34 972 316 [email protected] · www.museudelapesca.org

PalsMaritime Archaeology Museum - Ca la PrunaC/ de la Creu, 7 (Casa de Cultura) · Tel. +34 972 636 833 · Fax +34 972 636 [email protected] · www.pals.es

RosesCitadel MuseumAv. de Rhode, s/n · Tel. +34 972 151 466 · Fax +34 972 458 [email protected] · www.patrimonideroses.cat

Lloret de MarMuseum of the Sea - Can GarrigaPg. de Camprodon i Arrieta, 1-2 · Tel +34 972 364 [email protected] · www.lloretdemar.org

Breda

Josep Aragay MuseumC/ Nou, 2 · Tel. +34 972 870 220 · [email protected] · www.museuaragay.org

Cervià de TerRaset Modern Art MuseumC/ de Raset de Baix, 29 · Tel. +34 972 496 [email protected] · www.museo-raset.org

La Pera (Púbol)Gala Dalí Castle House-MuseumPl. de Gala Dalí · [email protected] · www.salvador-dali.org/museus/pubol

BanyolesArchaeology MuseumPl. de la Font, 11 · Tel. +34 972 572 361 · Fax +34 972 575 [email protected] · www.museusdebanyoles.catDarder MuseumPl. dels Estudis, 2 · Tel. +34 972 574 467 · Fax +34 972 571 [email protected] · www.museusdebanyoles.cat

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After the Romanesque period, other artistic expressionsalso left their mark on the region over the years, notablyGothic art which developed everywhere and especially inGirona city, where we find many examples of civil andecclesiastical architecture. Girona Cathedral boasts thewidest Gothic nave in Europe, the construction of whichgave rise to a long and curious debate between thearchitects of the time and the Cathedral authorities.Gothic art is also present in Castelló d'Empúries wherethe imposing parish church of Santa Maria is popularlyknown as “Empordà cathedral”.

Other artistic styles also came and went, but it was notuntil the late 19th and early 20th century with theModernist movement that Girona again played animportant role in architecture and the decorative arts, inthe context of a long pictorial tradition starting with theOlot School of Landscape Painting and culminating withthe surrealism of Salvador Dalí.

Contemporary art finds an expression in Parc Art at Cassàde la Selva, where nature and contemporary sculpturegraciously complement each other.

ART

• There are places along each of the routes offering many options for accommodation. Visitorswill not have problems over finding somewhere to stay, though it is a good idea in the highseason to do some planning and make reservations in the places that are most popular withtourists.

• The number of kilometres is indicated for each route, but not the time it takes: it is up to individualvisitors to plan their own routes in line with their interests and with how much time they wantto spend in any particular place, visiting a museum or walking around a town or village. Ourintention was not so much to mark out a cultural rally as to let everyone enjoy the region, itsfood, its landscapes, its shopping facilities, the activities on offer in each place, or just strollingaround... in short, adopting the Mediterranean way of making the most of one's time and enjoyinglife.

• One should also bear in mind the options provided by traditional culture at high points in theyear's calendar (Christmas, Easter, town and village festivals, medieval-style events etc.) andby the local cuisine (there are many events focusing on local produce throughout the year). Allthese resources can make visiting a place all the more attractive.

• There are lots of music festivals around the region in summer. Ending a day by going to a concertin places of notable historical or architectural interest is also highly recommendable.

• In all these matters, we particularly recommend enquiring in local and regional tourist officesas well as in Turisme de Catalunya to find out what options are on offer in each place, completewith all the cultural and leisure options available. Naturally, there are many more besides theones we suggest, and more varied ones too.

• Visitors wishing to find out more regarding the culture of the areas to be visited will also findfurther information in those tourist offices.

738

Salvador Dalí (1904-1989) was a major artist of the surrealist

movement which took painting, literature, cinema and other

arts by storm during the first half of the 20th century.

Dalí's strong personality made him a key figure in contemporary

culture. He is also a magnificent example of a universal genius

who remained firmly attached to his native Empordà, to the

Costa Brava landscape at Cap de Creus and to the traditions of

Catalonia.

Dalí was born in Figueres and studied in the Madrid School of

Fine Arts, where he came into contact with up-and-coming

intellectuals and personalities of the period, notably film-maker

Luis Buñuel and poet Federico García Lorca. His passion for art

led him to discover cubism, futurism, metaphysical painting,

the world of cinema and photography and to explore all the

possibilities afforded to his creativity.

After exhibiting his work in Barcelona and Madrid in 1925 and

1926 respectively, Dalí left for Paris to meet Picasso and it was

there that he encountered the surrealist movement.

Dalí later persuaded some of his Madrid and Paris friends, in

particular the poet Paul Eluard and his wife Gala, to spend the

summer with him in solitary, out-of-the-way Cadaqués, the

birthplace of his father.

From that moment on, Dalí and Gala entered into a curious

symbiotic partnership to which they both remained faithful

until their death.

Later on, by this stage at odds with the surrealist movement,

Dalí went to the United States in 1940 where he continued to

develop his creative genius, achieving considerable success

and influence in the world of fashion and publicity as well as

in costume and set design for the ballet.

At the height of his fame but always mindful of his roots, Dalí

bought up a row of fishermen's houses at Portlligat cove near

Cadaqués, and transformed them into a residence and workshop,

thereby providing himself with the means to alternate periods

on the Costa Brava with interludes in the world art centres of

Paris and New York.

Towards the end of his life, he decided to return for good to his

native Empordà and presented Gala with a castle, thus fulfilling

a one-time promise to make her “queen of the castle”. This was

Púbol Castle, situated near La Pera village not far from La

Bisbal d'Empordà, where Gala set up residence and, according

to local legend, only allowed Dalí access on receipt of her written

permission.

In 1974, one of Dalí's dreams came true with the opening of the

Dalí Theatre-Museum in Figueres where a wide range of works

from all his various artistic periods is on show to the public.

The museum was personally conceived and designed by the

painter and is in itself another work of art. Today it is one of

the most popular museums in Spain and essential for

understanding the evolution of 20th-century art.

After the deaths, first of Gala and then of Dalí, the Gala-Salvador

Dalí Foundation was set up to manage the three emblematic

spaces of the artist's life: the Dalí Theatre-Museum in Figueres,

the Gala Dalí Castle House-Museum in Púbol and the Salvador

Dalí House-Museum in Portlligat, thereby constituting the so-

called Dalí Triangle that enables visitors to discover the human

and artistic personality of the painter while enjoying the

surroundings of his native land.

This is indeed the best way to understand why the Costa Brava

landscapes were a permanent source of inspiration for Dalí,

whose attachment to his native Empordà and its traditions

enshrined it forever in universal artistic imagery.

GENERAL Recommendations

The twelve cultural-interest routes we suggest in this guide are to be taken as just a starting pointfor exploring the vast cultural legacy of the various counties of Girona, but not as a comprehensivecompendium to the area's resources. Accordingly, these points should be borne in mind:

• These routes are for car-drivers. There is the odd stretch on forest tracks, though of the kindthat can be used by ordinary saloon cars without difficulty. Even so, other options are alwaysgiven so that you can stay on proper roads if you so wish.For you to make the most of the routes and the areas they go through, parallel or supplementaryoptions are often given for cycling and hiking routes.

• Generally speaking, the road network in Girona is very good and should pose no problems, eventhough some routes involve all kinds of roads, including a few local ones.Some roads up in the Pyrenees may have ice or snow in winter, and visitors should be ready forthat.

• The guide gives directions in sufficient detail for completing the route without difficulty, buteven so it must be remembered that this guide is not a road book. You are recommended totake an up-to-date road map with you.

• The routes were designed on a theme basis, but one should nonetheless be aware that the placesalong the way are often of interest from many different points of view. That is why the informationon the route is supplemented at the end by guidance on other routes, ones that can be regardedas associated with the one marked out.

• Some of the routes are very long. The idea is to mark out a primary core route so that theoptions and the region can be explored over the course of several days.

• The routes were arranged by highlighting the chief sights and places along the way so thateveryone can make adjustments in line with their interests: doing the routes from start to finish,or selecting just a few stretches, or starting the route from whichever point along it happensto be nearest, or taking the initiative oneself on the basis of one's own interests and priorities,or combining the routes with other activities, and so on.

4

ALT EMPORDÀ

GIRONÈS

BAIXEMPORDÀ

SELVA

GARROTXA

CERDANYA

RIPOLLÈS

PLA DE L’ESTANY

41

Costa BravaG

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A major Romanesque heritage

The Jewish world

In the Middle Ages, the territory now known as Catalonia wasdivided into earldoms, with Empúries, Besalú, Torroella andPeralada attaining a certain degree of importance. The feudallords wielded great power over the land and entered intopowerful alliances with the Church and, for this reason, promotedthe establishment of the religious orders and monasteries whichproliferate all over Catalonia. Many of these constructions wereRomanesque, which explains the astonishing development ofthe style all over the territory, especially in the Pyrenees, wheregreat monasteries, churches and little hermitages were thusbuilt, with Lombard Romanesque a main feature.The extraordinary Romanesque heritage went hand in handwith historical events. In 12th-century Ripoll, Count Guifré elPelós ordered the construction of Santa Maria monastery,whose splendid stone-sculpted portal is considered to be amasterpiece of European Romanesque. Thought to be the firstking of the Catalan dynasty, Count Guifré had a decisive influence

One of the most crucial periods in the history of medievalGirona, cradle of cultures, coincided with the time of maximumsplendour of the Jewish community that lived in the city betweenthe 9th and the 15th centuries.The arrival of the first Jews to Catalonia could be linked to theDiaspora following the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalemin the year 70 A.D. but little is really known about the origins.However, Jewish presence in Girona is documented from the9th century, whereas no similar evidence exists for other citiesin Catalonia until the 12th or 13th centuries.There was thus a Jewish community living in Girona for oversix hundred years, during which they played an important rolein the social and economic development of the city, with agolden age situated between the 12th and the first half of the14th century. Some Jews were well-to-do, with access to businessand state finances, and often lent advice to the monarchs, inreturn for special protected status.At that time, the cabbalist movement was developing inLanguedoc and Provence under the auspices of a religiouscircle of intellectuals led by Isaac de Narbonne. The Cabbala isan ancient esoteric, mystical philosophy originating on MountSinai which purports to understand and analyse the world thatlies beyond our rational knowledge. Disciples of the Narbonnescholar brought the movement to Girona where it flourisheddue to great philosophical figures such as Ezra and Azriel.

Whether exploring the Costa Brava or the Pirineu deGirona, we cannot go very far without coming acrossevidence of the long history of the area.The sunny Mediterranean climate, the geographic situationand the richness of land, rivers and sea have combinedto create a territory that has been inhabited since earliesttimes and coveted by each of the different peoples thatpassed through the Iberian Peninsula, as witnessed bythe many traces left by our ancestors over the centuries.The earliest of these remains are found at the prehistoriccaves in Serinyà near Banyoles, and at the megalithicmonuments in the Albera, Rodes and Gavarres mountainranges.

Remains of the old Iberian civilisation, which lent its nameto the peninsula now occupied by Spain and Portugal,can still be seen in numerous settlements strategicallylocated on hilltops, such as Puig Castellet (Lloret de Mar),Castell (Palamós) and Ullastret among others, affordinga unique opportunity to learn about the organisation ofthese early societies.

The ancient Greeks crossed the Mediterranean Sea andsettled in a place called Empúries, the beauty of which isstill a source of wonder. The first Greek colony on thePeninsula was founded here and it was to the same portthat the Olympic flame arrived in Catalonia for the 1992Barcelona Games. The Greeks bequeathed us their culture,and the Romans wisely followed in their footsteps. TheRomans also traced the original Via Augustacommunications route that crosses our territory fromnorth to south along today's AP-7 motorway. Romanremains can be found at the Capsacosta causeway in thePyrenees, the Ametllers villa at Tossa de Mar and the hotbaths at Caldes de Malavella.

HISTORY

MEDIEVALGIRONA

Costa Brava Pirineu de Girona

County Information Offices

Alp:Av. Tossa d’Alp, 6Tel. and Fax +34 972 890 385www.alpturisme.catE-mail: [email protected]

Besalú:Pl. Llibertat, 1Tel. +34 972 591 240 · Fax +34 972 591 150www.besalu.cat · E-mail: [email protected]

Camprodon:Pl. d’Espanya, 1Tel. +34 972 740 010 · Fax +34 972 130 324www.camprodon.catE-mail: [email protected]

La Vall d’en Bas (els Hostalets d’en Bas):C/ Teixeda, 12Tel. +34 972 692 177 · Fax +34 972 690 326www.vallbas.catE-mail: [email protected]

La Vall de Camprodon (Camprodon):Ctra. C-38, km 9,6Tel. +34 972 740 936 · Fax +34 972 130 359www.valldecamprodon.orgE-mail: [email protected]

La Vall de NúriaVall de Núria Mountain ResortTel. +34 972 732 020www.valldenuria.catE-mail: [email protected]

La Vall de Ribes (Ribes de Freser)Pl. de l’Ajuntament, 3, baixosTel. +34 972 727 728www.vallderibes.cat · E-mail: [email protected]

Les Planes d'Hostoles:Pg. de l'Estació, 2Tel. +34 972 448 026 · Fax +34 972 448 593www.lesplanes.cat · E-mail: [email protected]

Les Preses:Antiga Estació, s/nTel. +34 972 692 023 · Fax +34 972 692 020www.lespreses.cat · E-mail: [email protected]

Llívia:C/ dels Forns, 10 · Tel. and fax +34 972 896 313www.llivia.org · E-mail: [email protected]

Olot:C/ de l’Hospici, 8Tel. +34 972 260 141 · Fax +34 972 271 900www.turismeolot.cat · E-mail: [email protected]

Centre d’informació Casal dels VolcansAv. Santa Coloma, s/nTel. +34 972 268 112 · Fax +34 972 270 455www.gencat.cat/parcs/garrotxaE-mail: [email protected]

Puigcerdà:C/ Querol, 1Tel. +34 972 880 542 · Fax +34 972 141 522www.puigcerda.cat · E-mail: [email protected]

Ripoll:Pl. Abat Oliba, s/nTel. and fax +34 972 702 351www.ripoll.cat/turismeE-mail: [email protected]

Sant Feliu de Pallerols:Ctra. d’Olot, 43 (Antiga Estació)Tel. +34 972 444 474 · Fax +34 972 444 422www.santfeliudepallerols.catE-mail: [email protected]

Sant Joan de les Abadesses:Pl. de l’Abadia, 9Tel. +34 972 720 599 · Fax +34 972 720 650www.santjoandelesabadesses.catE-mail: [email protected]

Sant Joan les Fonts:C/ Juvinyà, s/nTel. +34 972 290 507· Fax +34 972 291 289www.santjoanlesfonts.catE-mail: [email protected]

Santa Pau:Can Vayreda, Pl. Major, 1Tel. and fax +34 972 680 349www.santapau.comE-mail: [email protected]

Setcases:C/ del Rec, 5Tel. +34 972 136 089 · Fax +34 972 136 037www.setcases.catE-mail: [email protected]

Vallter 2000Pla de Morens, s/nTel. +34 972 139 057www.vallter2000.comE-mail: [email protected]

Vallfogona de Ripollès:C/ Puig Estela, 9Tel. +34 972 701 909 · Fax +34 972 700 512www.ddgi.es/vallfogona · E-mail: [email protected]

Centre de visitants del Gironès:Av. de França, 221 · 17840 Sarrià de TerTel. +34 972 011 669www.turismegirones.catE-mail: [email protected]

Alt Empordà County Council:C/ Nou, 48 · 17600 FigueresTel. +34 972 514 431 · Fax. +34 972 505 681www.empordaturisme.comE-mail: [email protected]

La Selva County Council:Pg. de Sant Salvador, 25-2717430 Santa Coloma de FarnersTel. +34 972 841 702 · Fax +34 972 840 804www.selvaturisme.catE-mail: [email protected]

Baix Empordà County Council:C/ dels Tarongers, 12 ·17100 La Bisbal d’EmpordàTel. +34 972 642 310www.visitemporda.comE-mail: [email protected]

Pla de l’Estany County Council:C/ Catalunya, 48 · 17820 BanyolesTel. +34 972 573 550 - Fax +34 972 575 012www.plaestany.cat/turismeE-mail: [email protected]

Ripollès Desenvolupament:Polígono Industrial dels PintorsC/ Joan Miró, 2-4 · 17500 RipollTel. +34 972 704 499 · Fax +34 972 704 530www.elripolles.comE-mail: [email protected]

Cerdanya County Tourism Board:N-152 and N-260 Intersection17520 PuigcerdàTel. +34 972 140 665 · Fax +34 972 140 592www.cerdanya.orgE-mail: [email protected]

Turisme Garrotxa:Av. Onze de Setembre, 22, 2a planta17800 OlotTel. +34 972 271 600 · Fax +34 972 271 666www.turismegarrotxa.comE-mail: [email protected]

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Another adept of the Cabbala and other sciences was the great Gironamaster Moses ben Nahman or Nahmanides, also known by the Catalanname Bonastruc ça Porta.

The building containing the last Jewish synagogue in Girona nowbears the name Bonastruc ça Porta in honour of his memory.

The Jewish community initially lived beside the Cathedral in the highpart of the city, but by 1160 there is evidence of a Jewish quarter orCall (a Catalan word deriving from the Latin callis meaning “street”).However, it was not until conflicts between Christians and Jews startedin the second half of the 15th century that the quarter actually becamea ghetto. A municipal decree in 1448 gave the Jews six days to moveout of their normal place of residence and into the Call.

Previously, the Jews had been attacked on several occasions, withthe most bloodthirsty riots taking place on Saint Laurence's night in1391. Under pretence of protection, the city authorities locked theJews up in Gironella Tower on that occasion for 17 weeks, duringwhich period their houses were looted.The conflicts continued and the Call gradually diminished until itfinally disappeared when the Jews were expelled from Spain in 1492.

The labyrinthine structure of the narrow streets and the abundanceof stone construction helped the quarter to withstand the ravages of

on the shaping of so-called Old Catalonia, and thus on the history ofCatalonia.

Guifré el Pelós also founded the monastery of Sant Joan de lesAbadesses near Ripoll, where we can admire the Sacred Mystery groupof sculptures composed of seven life-sized figures, considered a uniqueexample of Romanesque sculpture of the age.

There is still a third 12th-century monastery in the area, that of SantPere de Camprodon which, although not as important as the others,features a bell tower with an interesting octagonal base and a curiouslywide nave.

Leaving Ripollès for Alt Empordà county, we find other majormonasteries, of which the most outstanding is undoubtedly the 10th-century Sant Pere de Rodes, spectacularly situated overlooking Capde Creus with a splendid view of the sea below.

The great monasteries spearheaded the construction of other churchesand hermitages, especially along the pilgrims' road to Santiago deCompostela. Ripollès county alone boasts a total of 98 Romanesquemonuments, one of the major clusters of the style in the whole ofEurope.

In Girona city, Romanesque art also left a valuable heritage, as canstill be seen in the bell tower of the original cathedral, subsequentlyused as a buttress for the later Gothic building. In the CathedralMuseum we find the most important Romanesque textile in existence:the Creation Tapestry, embroidered in an intricate iconographic patternreflecting influences from many sources, a treasure in itself that iswell worth a trip to see.

Romanesque art is also found on the coast, at the old monastery ofSant Feliu de Guíxols, and slightly inland, as for example at themonasteries of Breda and Banyoles.

time. The Call became just another district inhabited by Christian orconvert families and life went on until the present day. Few majorchanges were made over the centuries, with the result that today'sCall is one of the best conserved Jewish quarters in Western Europe.

For this reason, Girona belongs to the Spanish Network of JewishCities, a non-profit-making public association set up to protect thearchitectural, historic, artistic and cultural aspects of the Jewishheritage in Spain.Today's network comprises the towns and cities of Ávila, Barcelona,Besalú, Cáceres, Calahorra, Castelló d’Empúries, Córdoba, Estella,Girona, Hervás, Jaén, León, Lucena, Monforte de Lemos, Oviedo,Palma de Mallorca, Plasencia, Ribadavia, Segovia, Seville, Tarazona,Toledo, Tortosa and Tudela.

A trip to Besalú, one of the best conserved medieval historic-artisticsites in Catalonia, is an ideal way to complement the Call in Girona.The famous mikvah or Jewish ritual purification bathhouse, uniquein Europe, dates from the 12th century and is the main attraction ofthe Jewish heritage in Besalú.

At Castelló d'Empúries there is another medieval Jewish quarterwhich once held one of the highest populations in the whole Gironaarea, and where the structure of the “New Synagogue” can still beobserved.

TOURISTINFORMATIONOFFICES

Arbúcies:C/ Major, 6Tel. +34 972 162 477 · Fax +34 972 860 983www.arbucies.cat/turismeE-mail: [email protected]

Banyoles:Pg. Darder – Pesquera, 10Tel. +34 972 583 470 · Fax. +34 972 574 917www.banyoles.cat/turismeE-mail: [email protected]

Begur:Av. Onze de Setembre, 5Tel. +34 972 624 520 · Fax +34 972 624 578www.visitbegur.comE-mail: [email protected]

Blanes:Pg. de Catalunya, 2Tel. +34 972 330 348 · Fax +34 972 334 686www.visitblanes.netE-mail: [email protected]

Pl. Catalunya, s/nTel. +34 972 330 348www.visitblanes.netE-mail: [email protected]

Breda:C/ Santa Victòria, 1Tel. +34 972 871 530www.breda.catE-mail: [email protected]

Cadaqués:C/ des Cotxe, 2ATel. +34 972 258 315www.visitcadaques.orgE-mail: [email protected]

Caldes de Malavella:C/ Vall-llobera, s/nTel. +34 972 480 103www.caldesdemalavella.cat/turismeE-mail: [email protected]

Calella de Palafrugell:C/ de les Voltes, 4Tel. +34 972 614 475www.visitpalafrugell.catE-mail: [email protected]

Calonge:Pl. Major, s/nTel. +34 972 609 445ww.calonge-santantoni.comE-mail: [email protected]

Castelló d’Empúries:Pl. Jaume I, s/nTel. +34 972 156 233www.castello.catE-mail: [email protected]

Colera:C/ Labrun, 34Tel. +34 972 389 050 · Fax +34 972 389 283www.colera.catE-mail: [email protected]

El Port de la Selva:C/ Illa, 13Tel. +34 972 387 122 · Fax +34 972 387 413www.elportdelaselva.catE-mail: [email protected]

EmpuriabravaPompeu Fabra, s/n (Centre Cívic)Tel. +34 972 450 802 · Fax +34 972 450 600www.empuriabrava.catE-mail: [email protected]

Figueres:Pl. del Sol, s/nTel. +34 972 503 155 · Fax +34 972 673 166www.figueres.catE-mail: [email protected]

Girona:Av.Joan Maragall, 1Tel. +34 872 975 975www.gencat.cat/generalitatgironaE-mail: [email protected]

Punt de BenvingudaC/ Berenguer Carnicer, 3-5Tel. +34 972 21 1 678 · Fax +34 972 221 135www.puntdebenvinguda.comE-mail: [email protected]

Rambla de la Llibertat, 1Tel. +34 972 226 575www.girona.cat/turismeE-mail: [email protected]

Hostalric:C/ Raval, 45Tel. +34 972 864 565 · Fax +34 902 196 446www.hostalric.cat · E-mail: [email protected]

L’Escala:Pl. de les Escoles, 1Tel. +34 972 770 603 · Fax +34 972 773 385www.visitlescala.com ·E-mail: [email protected]

L’Estartit:Pg. Marítim, s/nTel. +34 972 751 910www.visitestartit.com · E-mail: [email protected]

La Bisbal d’Empordà:Edifici Torre Maria - C. de l’Aigüeta, 17Tel. +34 972 645 500www.visitlabisbal.catE-mail: [email protected]

Castell Palau - Pl. del Castell, s/nTel. +34 972 645 166www.visitlabisbal.catE-mail: [email protected]

Llafranc:Pg. de Cípsela, s/nTel. +34 972 305 008 · Fax +34 972 611 261www.visitpalafrugell.catE-mail: [email protected]

Llagostera:Pg. Romeu s/n · Estació del carriletTel. +34 972 832 322 · Fax +34 972 805 468www.llagostera.cat · E-mail: [email protected]

Llançà:C/ Camprodon, 16-18Tel. +34 972 380 855 · Fax +34 972 121 931www.llanca.cat · E-mail: [email protected]

Lloret de Mar:Av. de les Alegries, 3Tel. +34 972 365 788 · Fax +34 972 367 750www.lloretdemar.orgE-mail: [email protected]

Pg. Camprodon i Arrieta, 1-2 (Museu del Mar)Tel. +34 972 364 735 · Fax +34 972 360 540www.lloretdemar.org · E-mail: [email protected]

Maçanet de Cabrenys:Aparcament del Pont, s/nTel. +34 972 544 297 · Fax +34 972 544 108www.massanet.org · E-mail: [email protected]

Mont-ras:Pl. de l’Ajuntament, 1Tel. +34 972 301 974 · Fax +34 972 301 956www.mont-ras.cat · E-mail: [email protected]

Palafrugell:C/ Carrilet, 2Tel. +34 972 300 228 · Fax +34 972 611 261www.visitpalafrugell.catE-mail: [email protected]

Palamós:Pg. del Mar, s/nTel. +34 972 600 550www.visitpalamos.catE-mail: [email protected]

Pals:Pl. Major, 7Tel. +34 972 637 380 · Fax +34 972 637 326www.pals.cat · E-mail: [email protected]

C/ Aniceta Figueres, 6Tel. +34 972 667 857 · Fax +34 972 637 818www.pals.cat · E-mail: [email protected]

Peralada:Pl. Peixateria, 6Tel. +34 972 538 840 · Fax +34 972 538 327www.peralada.org · E-mail: [email protected]

Peratallada (Forallac):C/ Unió, 3Tel. +34 972 645 522 · Fax +34 972 645 524www.forallac.cat · E-mail: [email protected]

Platja d’Aro:C/del Mn. Cinto Verdaguer, 4Tel. +34 972 817 179 · Fax +34 972 825 657www.platjadaro.comE-mail: [email protected]

Portbou:Pg. Lluís CompanysTel. +34 972 125 161 · Fax +34 972 125 123www.portbou.catE-mail: [email protected]

Roses:Av. de Rhode, 77-79Tel. +34 972 257 331 · Fax +34 972 151 150www.roses.cat · E-mail: [email protected]

Sant Antoni de Calonge:Av. Catalunya, 26Tel. +34 972 661 714 · Fax +34 972 661 080ww.calonge-santantoni.comE-mail: [email protected]

Sant Feliu de Guíxols:Pl. Del Mar, 8 - 12Tel. +34 972 820 051 · Fax +34 972 820 119www.guixols.catE-mail: [email protected]

Sant Hilari Sacalm:Pl. del Doctor Robert, s/nTel. +34 972 869 686 · Fax +34 972 869 677www.santhilari.catE-mail: [email protected]

Sant Llorenç de la Muga:C/ Esglesia, 2Tel. and fax +34 972 569 140www.santllorençdelamuga.catE-mail: [email protected]

Sant Pere Pescador:Ctra. De la Platja , s/nTel. +34 972 520 535 · Fax +34 972 550 323www.santpere.catE-mail: [email protected]

Santa Cristina d’Aro:C/ Pl. Catalunya, 1Tel. +34 972 837 010www.santacristina.netE-mail: [email protected]

Tamariu:C/ de la Riera, s/nTel. +34 972 620 193 · Fax +34 972 611 261www.visitpalafrugell.catE-mail: [email protected]

Torroella de Montgrí:Museu de la MediterràniaCan Quintana. C/ d’Ullà, 31Tel. +34 972 755 180 · Fax +34 972 755 182www.museudelamediterrania.catE-mail: [email protected]

Tossa de Mar:Av. Pelegrí, 25, Ed. La NauTel. +34 972 340 108 · Fax +34 972 340 712www.infotossa.comE-mail: [email protected]

Verges:C/ de la Placeta, 1Tel. +34 972 780 974http://webspobles.ddgi.cat/sites/vergesE-mail: [email protected]

Vilobí d’Onyar:Girona-Costa Brava AirportTel. +34 972 942 955E-mail: [email protected]

F R A N C E

Vic

BARCELONA

Olot

Banyoles

GIRONA

Figueres

la Bisbal

Puigcerdà

Santa Colomade Farners

Ripoll

Portbou

la Jonquera

P I R I N E U D E G I R O N A

Pantà deSusqueda

Pantà deBoadella

Estany de Banyoles

el Segre

el Freser

el Ter

el Ter

l’Onyar

la Muga

el Fluvià

el Ter

Cala de les Rates

Platja de Garbet

Platja de Grifeu

Platja de les TonyinesPlatja del Port de la Selva

Platja del Pas

El Golfet

Platja del Port

Platja Gran

Platja de S’Alqueria

Badia de Cadaqués

Cala Jóncols

Platja de l’AlmadravaPlatja de

Canyelles

Platja de la Punta

Platja de Roses

Platja d’Empuriabrava

Platja del Moll GrecPlatja de les Muscleres

Platja de Riells

Cala Montgó

Cala FarriolaGolf de la Monedera

Cala Pedrosa

Platja de Pals

Platja de Sa Tuna

Platja de Sa Riera

Platja d’Aiguablava

Platja de Tamariu

Cala Pedrosa

Platja de l’Escala

Platja Gran

Platja del RacóCala d’Illa Roja

Platja d’Aiguafreda

Platja FondaCales de Fornells

Cala de Aigua Xelida

Cala de Gens

Platja de Port Bo

Platja de la Fosca

Cala MargaridaPlatja Gran

Platja de Torre Valentina

Cala Sa Cova

Platja des Monestri

Cala Cristus-ses Torretes

Cala Sa Conca

Cala RoviraPlatja Gran

Platja de Sant Pol

Platja de Sant Feliu de Guíxols

Platja del Senyor RamonCala Salionç

Platja de Canyeretes

Cala Giverola

Cala BonaPlatja de la Mar Menuda

Platja GranCala Llorell

Platja de Canyelles

Platja de Sa BoadellaPlatja de Fenals

Platja de Lloret de Mar

Platja de Sant FrancescPlatja de Blanes

Platja de S’Abanell

Platja de Santa Cristina

Platja de LlafrancPlatja del Canadell

Platja de Sant Antoni

Cala Canyelles

Cap de Creus

Cap de Begur

Golf de Roses

la Vallde Bianya

la Vall d’en Bas

Túnel del Cadí

Túnel de Collabós

France

Little Train RoutePalamós - Vall-llòbrega - Mont-ras - Palafrugell

Girona-St. Feliu de GuíxolsNarrow-Gauge Railway Route

Historic Highway and Cattle TrackCampdevànol-Sant Llorenç de Campdevànol

Olot-Girona NarrowGauge Railway Route

Ripoll-St.Joan de les Abadesses - Ogassa - Olot Iron and Coal Route

A L B E R A M A S S I F

CA D Í - M O I X E R ÓN AT U R A L PA R K

GARROTXA VOLCANICAREA NATURAL PARK

AIGUAMOLLSDE L’EMPORDÀ

NATURAL PARK

Montgrí, Medes Islands and Baix Ter Nature Park

MONTSENY NATURAL PARK

C A P D E C R E U SN AT U R A L PA R K

L E S G A V A R R E SGirona-Costa Brava Airport

Albanyà

Agullana

Biure

Boadellad’Empordà

Cabanes

Cadaqués

Cantallops

Capmany

Cistella

Colera

Darnius

Espolla

Garriguella

la Selvade Mar

la Vajol

Llançà

Maçanet deCabrenys

MasaracMollet dePeralada

Pedreti Marzà

Peralada

Roses

Sant ClimentSescebes


el Port de la Selva

Portbou

Rabós

Terrades

Vilabertran

Vilajuïga

Vilamaniscle

Palau-saverdera

Pont deMolins

Pau

Llers

la Jonquera

Avinyonet de Puigventós

Cabanelles

el Fard’Empordà

Lladó

RiumorsVilamalla

VilanantVilafant

EmpuriabravaBeuda

Maià deMontcal

Sales deLlierca Santa Llogaia

d’Àlguema

Bàscara

Borrassà


Garrigàs

l’Escala

NavataOrdis

Palau deSanta Eulàlia

Pontós

Sant Miquelde Fluvià

Sant Mori

Sant PerePescador

Saus

Siurana

Torroella de Fluvià

Ventalló

Viladamat

Vilamacolum

Vilaür

Vila-sacra

l’Armentera

GarrigolesVilopriu

Crespià

Esponellà

Vilademuls

Fontcoberta

Camallera

BesalúSant Ferriol

Tortellà

Argelaguer

Montagut

Sant Jaume de Llierca

Castellfollitde la Rocal’Hostalnou

de Bianya

Serinyà


PorqueresMieres

Santa Paules Preses

Sant Feliude Pallerols

Sant Aniol de Finestres

les Planesd’Hostoles

Sant Martíde Llémena

Canet d’Adri

Sant Joanles Fonts

Albons

Bellcaired’Empordà

Viladasens

Colomersla Tallada d’Empordà

Ullà

Sant JordiDesvallsCervià

de Ter

Foixà

Sant Joande Mollet

BordilsFlaçà

la Pera

Sant MartíVell

Juià

Madremanya

Camós Cornellà del TerriPalol deRevardit

Sarriàde Ter

CelràSant Juliàde Ramis

l’EstartitMedinyà


Serra de DaróGualta

Rupià

Parlavà Fontanilles

Palau-satorUllastretCorçà

Vulpellac

Peratallada

PalsBegur

RegencósTorrent

CruïllesSant Sadurníde l’Heura

MonellsSant Gregori

la Cellera de Ter Bonmatí Bescanó

Salt

Fornellsde la Selva Llambilles

AnglèsQuart

OsorVilablareix

Palafrugell

Mont-ras

Palamós

Vall-llòbrega

Calonge

Llagostera


Castell d’AroPlatja d’Aro

Cassà de la Selva

Caldes deMalavella

Riudellots de la Selva

Campllong

Sant Andreu Salou

Vidreres

Tossa de Mar

Lloret de Mar

Blanes

Maçanet de la Selva

Sils

Hostalric

Massanes

Riudarenes

Breda

Sant Feliude Buixalleu

Sant Hilari Sacalm

Riells

Brunyola

Vilobí d’Onyar

Aiguaviva

Santa Cristinad’Aro

Sant MartíSacalm

Arbúcies

Espinelves

Viladrau

Ogassa Sant Paude Segúries

Vallfogonade Ripollès

Riudaura

Sant Privat d’en Bas

Vidrà

Sant Joan deles Abadesses

Setcases

Molló

Vilallonga de TerLlanars

CamprodonPardines

Campdevànol

Ribes de Freser

Queralbs

Planoles

Campelles

Gombrèn

Toses

les Llosses

Alp el Vilar d’Urtx

Bolvir

Guils deCerdanya

Lles

Bellver deCerdanya

Prullans

Martinet

All

Meranges

Montellà

Sansor

PratsUrúsRiu de

Cerdanya

Ger

Fortià

Ultramort

Amer

Llívia

Das

Jafre

Verges

Palafolls

Tordera

Isòvol

Sant Perede Rodes

Sant Martí d’Empúries

Portlligat

Montjoi

Sant Quirzede Colera

Tapis

VilacolumSant Tomàs

de FluviàErmedàs

Romanyàd’Empordà

Sadernes

Espinavessa

OrfesArenysd’Empordà

Grifeu

Mare de Déudel Mont

Púbol

Sa Tuna

Fornells

Aiguablava

Tamariu

Llafranc

Riells

Sobrestany

Fonolleres

Llabià

Sant Julià de Boada

CanapostSant Feliude Boada

Esclanyà

Ermedàs

Fonteta

Sa Riera

Calella dePalafrugell

la Fosca

Sant Antoni de Calonge

s’Agaró

Sant Pol

Canyet

Salionç

Santa Cristina

Sant Dalmai

Castanyet

Llofriu

Sant Grau

Sant Miquel de Cladells

Romanyà de la SelvaFranciac

Can Salvà

Viabrea

Salitja

Granollersde Rocacorba

Begudà

Sant Miqueldel Corb

Puigpardines

Joanetes

els Hostaletsd’en Bas

la Salut

Sant Martí Vellel Torn

Falgons

Bas

Sant Estevede Llémena

Galliners

Vilavenut

VilamaríSant Estevede Guialbes

OlivesPujarnol

Pujals delsPagesos

Pujals delsCavallers

Orriols

La Pinya

Collada deBracons

Oix

Beget

Núria

la Molina

Masella

Vallter 2000

Vilallobent

QueixansUrtx

Dòrria

Nevà

PlanèsVentolà

el Baell Bruguera

Montgrony

Abella

Tregurà de Baix

Tregurà de Dalt

Espinavell

Rocabruna

Fontanalsde Cerdanya

Arànser

ViliellaCoborriu de la Llosa Talltendre

Eller

Ordèn Cortàs

MússerTravesseres

Olopte

Gréixer

Girul

Estana

Bèixec

Villec

NasOlià Pi

Santa Eugènia Talló

CoborriuBeders

PedraBor

Baltarga Tartera

Saga

Solius

FIGUERES

LA BISBALD’EMPORDÀ

OLOT

BANYOLES

RIPOLL

PUIGCERDÀ

SANTA COLOMADE FARNERS

GIRONA

C-66

C-31

C-25

to Vic - Manresa - Lleida

C-31

2

France

AP-7

AP-7

8

6

7

9

AP-7

10

to Barcelona

to Barcelona

5

4

A-19

3

A-2

A-26

A-2

GIV-6542

C-31GIV-6548

C-65

C-35

A-2

C-66

E-15

E-15

C-63

C-63

C-260

C-253

to Barcelona

C-252

C-16

E-9C-38

N-153a

C-17

E-15

C-26

C-26

FranceN-154

N-260

N-260a

to Vic - Barcelona

N-260 N-260

C-37

N-260

N-260

France

N-141

C-252

8

3 3

7

14

13

13

17

18

23

4

1

19

22

2315 20

16

23

1

12

11 65

2

2

10

910

21

1- Music Festivals of Torroella de Montgrí and Peralada

2- Coves of Begur and Palafrugell and Sant Sebastià Lighthouse

3- La Molina-Masella

4- Lake of Banyoles

5- Medieval Towns of Pals and Peratal lada

6- Iberian Settlement of Ul lastret

7- Camprodon Valley

8- Valley and Sanctuary of Núria

9- Vi la Vella or Old Town of Tossa de Mar

10- Botanical Gardens of La Selva Coast (Santa Cloti lde,

Pinya de Rosa and Marimurtra)

11- Old Town of Girona

12- Pottery of La Bisbal

13- Alta Garrotxa (Oix and Beget)

14- Garrotxa Volcanic Area Natural Park

15- Cap de Creus Natural Park

16- Sant Pere de Rodes

17- Santa Pau

18- Besalú

19- Ruins of Empúries

20- Cadaqués

21- Montgrí , Medes Islands and Baix Ter Natural Park

22- Marshes of the Aiguamolls de l ’Empordà Natural Park

23- Dalí Triangle (Museums of Figueres, Portl l igat and Púbol)

24- Romanesque (throughout the region)

25- Cuisine «Surf and Turf» (throughout the region)

Main attractions

Graphic projectCentre d’Imatge i Comunicació

Updated content and modifications:Minimilks

Jordi Ribot

Banyoles Town Council

Iconna

EMAS 2011 Eco-Management & Audit SchemeCalonge: Cala Cristus - Ses Torretes, Platja des Monestri, Platja de Sant Antoni and Platja de Torre ValentinaEl Port de la Selva: Club Nàutic Port de la SelvaL’Escala: Platja del Moll Grec, Platja de les Muscleres, Platja de Riells, La Platja, Cala del Port d’en Perris, Platja del Portitxol and Club Nàutic l’EscalaLlançà: Club Nàutic LlançàPalafrugell: Platja del Canadell, Platja de Llafranc and Platja del Port BoPalamós: Port Esportiu Marina PalamósRoses: Platja de l’Almadrava, Cala del Bonifaci, Cala Calís, Cala Calitjàs, Cala Canadell, Platja de Canyelles Petites, Cala Jóncols, Cala Montjoi, Cala Murtra, Platja Nova, Platja dels Palangrers / Segon Moll, Cala Pelosa, Platja de la Punta, Platja del Rastrell, Cala Rostella, Platja del Salatar, Platja de Santa Margarida and Roses portSant Feliu de Guíxols: Cala Ametller, Platja de Can Dell, Platja dels Canyerets, Cala Jonca, Cala de Maset, Cala del Peix, Platja de Sant Pol, Sa Caleta, Platja de Port Salvi, Platja de Sant Feliu, Cala Urgell, Cala del Vigatà and Club Nàutic Sant Feliu de GuíxolsTorroella de Montgrí: Platja Gran of L’Estartit and Club Nàutic Estartit

ICTE “Q” certificate of tourism quality 2012 Begur: Platja d’Aiguablava, Platja del Racó and Platja de sa RieraCalonge: Platja de Sant Antoni Castell-Platja d’Aro: Platja Gran of Platja d’Aro and Platja de sa ConcaCastelló d’Empúries: Platja d’EmpuriabravaTorroella de Montgrí: Platja Gran of L’EstartitCerdanya: La Molina ski and mountain resortGarrotxa: Garrotxa Volcanic Area Natural ParkRipollès: Vall de Núria ski resort

Beaches of the highest quality 2012Accolade awarded by the European Union in recognition of the quality of water and services that beaches offer their users.

Harbour with blue flag

Cruise port

G

i Costa BravaPirineu de Girona

ENGLISH

Cultural routes

www.pirineugirona.orgwww.costabrava.org

Tel. +34 972 208 401 · Fax +34 972 221 [email protected]

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Cultural Routes

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