Besalú is a small town in Catalonia, the area of which 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. However, there is nothing to be surprised.
Firstly, 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.
Along with medieval monuments, on the streets are modern shops, souvenir shops, points of sales of traditional handicraft products and restaurants, which are very harmoniously fit in the general urban landscape. The city managed to keep 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 here
By plane to Barcelona, then by train or bus. The nearest train stations are in Gerona and Figueres, from which you can reach 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
Besalú, without exaggeration, can be compared with the "living" and large-scale decoration to the historical documentary or feature film. The old stone bridge of the 12th century, the 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 place for tourists. 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 begin in the Historical Center.
The Roman Bridge
"Visit" card Besal, through which you get into 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 is a descending grille that once protected the city from enemies.
Church of St. Peter
It is 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 is designed so that in the light of day 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 originally belonged to 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 designated both as the house of Liaudes, and as the house of Cornell.
Besalou Castle
Around the castle, small settlements were formed, which were then merged into one city. The castle was built in the 10th century.
Ruins of an old synagogue and medieval baths
Once in the city was located the Jewish quarter, 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 have survived.
Museum of Miniatures
There are five halls in the museum, in which hundreds of miniature exhibits are presented, among which there are 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 Products
Tourists are invited to try cheese and sausages of local production. Drink them with the local liqueur Ratafia. Photo Besalu (4)