Besalú is a small town in Catalonia, whose area is less than five square kilometers, and the population does not exceed 2, 5 thousand people. Despite its small size, this city enjoys great popularity among tourists from all over the world.
First of all, this picturesque town is a national monument of Spain, which means that interest in it "automatically" increases. Secondly, there is a huge number of interesting cultural and historical sights for such areas. Thirdly, Besalú can be called without exaggeration a real city museum in the open air.
Along with medieval monuments, on the streets there are modern shops, souvenir shops, points of sale of traditional handicraft products and restaurants that fit very harmoniously into the general urban landscape . The city managed to preserve its original appearance. And if you are in Catalonia, then definitely allocate time for an excursion to Besalú. You will not regret your choice.
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How to get there
By plane to Barcelona, then by train or bus. The nearest train stations are in Gerona and Figueres, from where you can get by buses TEISA
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A bit of history
The first settlements here were founded by the Romans. The fortress built later was located on one of the important roads at that time, connecting the empire with the conquered territories of the Iberian peninsula. The active development of the city began in the late 8th century, when important victories over the Arabs were achieved and the principality of Besalou was founded.
The first mention of the castle of Besalú dates back to the 10th century. The structure rises above the hill, where the remains of St. Mary have been buried since the early Middle Ages. The city was surrounded by a massive wall in the middle of the 15th century
Entertainment, excursions and attractions Besalu
Besalu, without exaggeration, can be compared with a "live" and large-scale decoration to a historical documentary or feature film. An old stone bridge of the 12th century, a picturesque castle, strong walls with a thousand-year history - all this and much more makes tourists discover from the surprise and admiration of the mouth.
It may seem that for many centuries in the town have not built anything new, so it looks authentic. Walking along narrow alleys and streets, visiting shops and restaurants, the smell of an ancient city - all this will give you great pleasure.
Historical center
The most popular tourist destination. There is a large number of objects of Romanesque architecture. "Complex" includes massive structures, a stone bridge and other monuments of various historical eras. As a rule, interesting and exciting excursions start at the Historical Center
Roman Bridge
Besalu's "visiting" card, through which you enter the city, was built in the 11th century, but was rebuilt several times. Its modern appearance and design date back to the 14th century. A large and fascinating structure. Until now, there has been a descending grille that once protected the city from enemies.
St. Peter's Church
Located on the main square of the city. Originally was part of the monastery built in the beginning of the 11th century. Here, a hospital was created for the knights who took part in the Crusades. The church is built in Romanesque style. The facade is decorated with carved stone ornaments. The project was designed so that in the light of time a lot of sunlight penetrated into the rooms, which looks very impressive.
House Liaudes (or Cornell's house)
The structure was erected in the 12th century and was originally owned by the Cornell family. They had the right to the house until the 15th century, when the building was handed over to the family of Liaudes. The guidebooks can be referred to as the house of Liaudes, and as the house of Cornell.
Besalu Castle
Small settlements were formed around the castle, which later were merged into one city. The castle was built in the 10th century
Ruins of the old synagogue and medieval baths
Once upon a time the Jewish quarter was located in the city, which today is reminiscent of the ruins of the old synagogue. Another legacy of the community is baths for ritual bathing, built in the 12th century. The square building is made in Romanesque style. This is a truly unique facility, especially since Besalú is the only city on the Iberian peninsula where ritual baths are preserved
Museum of Miniatures
There are five halls in the museum that display hundreds of miniature exhibits, including copies of world-famous objects . One of the most famous exhibits is a copy of the Eiffel Tower. In order to view some of the items exhibited, you will need a microscope!
Museum of Cheeses and Smoked Meat
Tourists are invited to try local cheeses and sausages. You can drink them with the local liqueur Ratafia. Photo Besalu (4)