Guide to Gerona

Gerona (Girona) is a medieval town situated in a mountainous region within close proximity of Barcelona, the Mediterranean coastline and the French border. It is a good starting point for exploring the surrounding attractions. The city is divided by the River Onyar with the more modern area to the south and the old area to the south. The buildings of the town have survived for hundreds of years, influenced by Jewish, Arab and Christian inhabitants and their styles of architecture; the styles have combined into a vivid reminder of the chequered past of the city. Part of the appeal of Gerona is the old area of the city that has retained its intriguing atmosphere down through the years. Captured by the Moors in the 8th century, under the control of Barcelona in the 9th century and changing controls over the years has meant an extraordinary range of buildings, fortifications and religious constructions in the town.

Thanks to the river, many of the cobbled narrow streets are more like steep step ways- great for getting fit but they may pose a difficulty for anyone with mobility difficulties. At the top of one of the sets of steps is the Cathedral of Gerona, a magnificently imposing sight that can be seen from most of areas of the town. A stroll around the old town, with sights and sounds of local people going about their business makes a change from the hectic crowded coastal towns. Many visitors rush from the town out to the coastal area but it is well worth staying here to explore what is on offer. One of the best viewing points in Gerona is the Gironella Tower- from the top there is a great view over the surrounding area and, on a good day, the Pyrenees can be seen. The pedestrian truss bridge that spans the Onyar River was designed by Gustave Eiffel and completed in just one year, 1876- 1877. Gustav Eiffel was an acclaimed engineer who designed The Eiffel Tower for the Paris World Fair and the support structure for the Statue of Liberty on Liberty Island, New York.

The Placa de la Independencia is a good start for a walk along the river for a view of the brilliantly colourful buildings along Onyar's banks. Sant Pere de Galligants Monasteryis located on the northern side of the old town; in use since founded in the year 988,� a church on the grounds is beautifully decorated with carvings and decorations. The monastery is different to others due to its location- few monasteries were built within the limits of cities or towns and Sant Pere de Galligants is one of the few examples remaining. The Archaeological Museum is within the grounds of the monastery and displays remnants from the regions prehistoric past. The Rambla area of the town is typically Spanish- narrow streets bustling with traders, fine boutiques and fine restaurants; this is the place for some retail therapy after a long day of sightseeing.�

The village town of Cadaque is famous as the birthplace of exuberant painter and creator Salvador Dali and is the most easterly point of Spain. Less then 80 km from Gerona, Cadaque has retained the charm of a typical Mediterranean fishing village. It is surrounded by the Cap de Creus National Park- a perfect location for a peaceful break away from the crowds.

Please check with the local tourist office for updates and information:
Girona tourist office,
Rambla de la Libertat, 1
+34 (972) 226 575
www.ajuntament.gi/turisme