Girona is one of the most charming cities in Catalonia, with a fascinating mix of medieval history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes.
Founded by the Romans in the 1st century BC under the name of Gerunda, it was an important strategic point on the Via Augusta.
Middle Ages: Under Visigothic and then Muslim rule (8th century), until Charlemagne reconquered it in 785. It became a key center of the County of Barcelona.
Jewish Quarter (Call): In the Middle Ages, Girona was home to a significant Jewish community, one of the most influential in Europe.
Wars and sieges: It suffered multiple attacks, including those by Napoleon (1809), which left their mark on its architecture.
Today, it is a university, cultural, and tourist city, famous for its heritage and for being the setting for Game of Thrones.
🏰 What to see in Girona: The essentials
1. Girona Cathedral
Style: Gothic (with a single nave, the second widest in the world after St. Peter's Basilica in Rome).
Staircase: An imposing 90-step Baroque staircase (appears in Game of Thrones as the Great Sept of Baelor).
Treasury: Houses the Creation Tapestry (11th century), a Romanesque masterpiece.
2. The Call (Jewish Quarter)
One of the best-preserved in Europe, with narrow and mysterious alleys.
Museum of Jewish History: Explains the life of the Sephardic community in the city.
3. The Houses of the Onyar River
Colorful houses hanging over the Onyar River, Girona's most photographed symbol.
Iconic bridges:
Iron Bridge (designed by Gustave Eiffel).
Stone Bridge.
4. Arab Baths (actually medieval)
Inspired by Roman and Arab baths, although they were built in the 12th century.
5. Girona Walls (Paseo de la Muralla)
A tour of the ancient Carolingian walls with spectacular views of the city.
6. Museum of Cinema
Exhibits a unique collection of cinematographic artifacts, from Chinese shadow puppets to Hollywood films.
7. Monastery of Sant Pere de Galligants
A beautiful example of Romanesque architecture, now home to the Museum of Archaeology.
Girona is a gastronomic paradise, with 11 Michelin stars in the province. Don't miss:
Xuixo: A typical cream-filled sweet.
"Fideuà de Girona" (similar to paella, but with noodles).
🚶♂️ What else to do in Girona?
✅ Stroll through Devesa Park (the largest in Catalonia).
✅ Visit the film museum (Tomàs Mallol collection).
✅ Excursion to Besalú or Figueres (to see the Dalí Museum).
📌 Is Girona worth visiting?
Absolutely! It's a compact city, full of history and charm, perfect for a 1 or 2-day getaway. Plus, it's only a 40-minute train ride from Barcelona.
Visit Girona and stay in our luxury homes on the Costa Brava. THE SUN PLACES will show you the best things to do in Girona's capital.