Top Rated Attractions in Girona

Located in the historic town of Besalú, the Sant Pere de Besalú monastery is a well-known historical landmark. This old Benedictine monastery dates back to the late-10th century. Its architecture has been remarkably well-preserved. It features three naves, a semi-circular apse, a barrel vaulted ceiling, intricate stone carvings, sculptures and relief work on its interiors. On the building’s facade are several arched windows that are adorned with sculptures of animals like monkeys, snakes and lions.

Set on the scenic Fluvía River, Pont de Besalú is a Romanesque-style bridge. It features several arches that are set atop pillars and a hexagon-shaped tower. This old bridge dates back to the 11th century. Over the centuries, it has been through multiple renovations and restorations. This historic bridge was declared by the Government of Catalonia as an Asset of Cultural Interest and a Cultural Asset of National Interest. This bridge is an interesting place to visit for architecture lovers.

Set on the banks of El Fluvià River, Sinagoga Miqvé is an old bathhouse that was used by the Jewish settlement in the area. This medieval bathhouse was discovered by Esteve Arboix in the year 1964. This Romanesque-style underground bathhouse is made of stone. Filled with spring water, this bathhouse was used by Jews as part of their purification customs. Men and women were known to use this bathhouse. In addition to people, this bathhouse was also used to purify personal belongings.

Set atop a hill, Besalú County Castle was built in the 10th century. This old castle’s ruins is located close to the remains of the Church of Santa Maria in the village of Besalú. This castle is known to have suffered further damages during the French War which took place in the early-19th century. Some of the other buildings that can be found here in this historical complex are the Miqvé, Church of the Monastery of Sant Pere, Sant Julià, Casa Cornellà and many others.

Overlooking the town’s square, Iglesia de Sant Vicenç de Besalú dates back to the 10th century. This late-Romanesque style church features three naves, three apses, a courtyard, several rose windows and a vaulted ceiling that stands on pillars. This stone church’s facade features Gothic-style elements like the arched entrance which is supported by two columns. It also has an octagon-shaped bell tower. This old church is a great place to visit for architecture lovers in the area.

The beauty of the 19th-century Dalí Theatre-Museum lies partly in the fact that it was designed by Dali himself. Built on the ruins of the Spanish Civil War, this museum is an architectural jewel in the riverside town of Figueres, which also happens to be Dali's birthplace. The building is the very embodiment of Dali's bountiful imagination, and the red fortress like structure topped by giant egg sculptures and figurines, crowned by a geodesic dome, is surreal to say the least. Dali's showmanship shines through in the one-of-a-kind artworks showcased here like the Wind Palace Room, Mae West Room and the Palace of the Wind. The Dalí Joies jewelry collection, pieces designed by the Surrealist master himself, and created by master craftsmen, is truly exceptional and an homage to his talent. Dali himself is interred in the museum premises, an apt resting place for the iconic artist.