Custom Walk in Girona, Spain by hd_mcnally_ef4cd created on 2024-09-30
Guide Location: Spain » Girona
Guide Type: Custom Walk
# of Sights: 7
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.5 Km or 0.9 Miles
Share Key: EXACH
Guide Type: Custom Walk
# of Sights: 7
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.5 Km or 0.9 Miles
Share Key: EXACH
How It Works
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Retrieve This Walk in App
Step 1. Download the app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" on Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
Step 2. In the GPSmyCity app, download(or launch) the guide "Girona Map and Walking Tours".
Step 3. Tap the menu button located at upper right corner of the "Walks" screen and select "Retrieve custom walk". Enter the share key: EXACH
1) Plaza de la Catedral de Girona (Girona Cathedral Square)
Plaza de la Catedral de Girona (Girona Cathedral Square) is a very small, rectangular space. It follows a slight slope and does not present any sculptural or natural elements. The pavement consists of cobblestones.
All the buildings surrounding the square deserve a detailed study due to their quality or history. Primitively, the square of the Cathedral was another point on a long road that allowed the land transit of men from beyond the mountains to the interior of the peninsula (the Via Augusta in Roman times). In the fifth century a chapel, called Sant Genís, was located west of the staircase in front of the house where the Arc bar is today. The chapel was owned by the monastery of Sant Pere de Roda according to a bull of Pope Benedict VI. In 1604 it was demolished and its roof tiles used for the Seu work.
However, there was another chapel built in the Romanesque period. It was the temple of Santa Maria de les Puelles, mentioned in a document from the year 1083 and which was located on the other side of the square, inside the old Palau de Justícia de Girona or Casa Pastors, near the wall of the Ballesteries. In 1245 a brotherhood had been established in the chapel; in 1401 the existence of two altars is known, one dedicated to Santa Maria and the other to Sant Martí. Its demolition took place in 1724.
All the buildings surrounding the square deserve a detailed study due to their quality or history. Primitively, the square of the Cathedral was another point on a long road that allowed the land transit of men from beyond the mountains to the interior of the peninsula (the Via Augusta in Roman times). In the fifth century a chapel, called Sant Genís, was located west of the staircase in front of the house where the Arc bar is today. The chapel was owned by the monastery of Sant Pere de Roda according to a bull of Pope Benedict VI. In 1604 it was demolished and its roof tiles used for the Seu work.
However, there was another chapel built in the Romanesque period. It was the temple of Santa Maria de les Puelles, mentioned in a document from the year 1083 and which was located on the other side of the square, inside the old Palau de Justícia de Girona or Casa Pastors, near the wall of the Ballesteries. In 1245 a brotherhood had been established in the chapel; in 1401 the existence of two altars is known, one dedicated to Santa Maria and the other to Sant Martí. Its demolition took place in 1724.
Sight description based on Wikipedia.
2) Catedral de Girona (Girona Cathedral) (must see)
A massive grand staircase leads up to the entranceway of the Girona Cathedral, a spectacular cathedral with origins dating to the 11th century. This Roman Catholic church is an impressive structure situated at a high point of the city. The cathedral is also known as the Cathedral of Saint Mary of Girona.
Construction took place until the 18th century; the cathedral's design features a blend of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque architecture. Girona Cathedral is famous for its Gothic nave. With a width of 75 feet, it's the second widest church nave in the world. The interior boasts lovely stained glass windows, rose windows, and an ornate Gothic altarpiece, made of gilded silver and gemstones. There are also several side chapels.
The church's eye-catching bell tower rises prominently above the city's skyline. It boasts a clock and a belfry. Located on the north side is the cathedral's trapezoidal-shaped Romanesque cloister. Dating from the 12th century, it features a courtyard surrounded by beautiful colonnades with double-columned arches.
The cathedral treasury features a museum highlighted by the "Tapestry of Creation," an exceptional piece of needlework depicting biblical scenes. This art piece was handcrafted between the 11th and 12th centuries. There is also an illuminated manuscript from the 10th century called the "Gerona Beatus." One of the museum's oldest pieces is the gilded silver casket of Hisham II, dating from the 10th century.
The Girona Cathedral offers regular worship services that include daily Mass. This stone structure is a must-see historical landmark on your tour around the old town area of Girona.
Construction took place until the 18th century; the cathedral's design features a blend of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque architecture. Girona Cathedral is famous for its Gothic nave. With a width of 75 feet, it's the second widest church nave in the world. The interior boasts lovely stained glass windows, rose windows, and an ornate Gothic altarpiece, made of gilded silver and gemstones. There are also several side chapels.
The church's eye-catching bell tower rises prominently above the city's skyline. It boasts a clock and a belfry. Located on the north side is the cathedral's trapezoidal-shaped Romanesque cloister. Dating from the 12th century, it features a courtyard surrounded by beautiful colonnades with double-columned arches.
The cathedral treasury features a museum highlighted by the "Tapestry of Creation," an exceptional piece of needlework depicting biblical scenes. This art piece was handcrafted between the 11th and 12th centuries. There is also an illuminated manuscript from the 10th century called the "Gerona Beatus." One of the museum's oldest pieces is the gilded silver casket of Hisham II, dating from the 10th century.
The Girona Cathedral offers regular worship services that include daily Mass. This stone structure is a must-see historical landmark on your tour around the old town area of Girona.
3) Banos Arabes (Arab Baths) (must see)
Not far from the Girona Cathedral, you'll find the Arab Baths. This public bathhouse is a remarkably preserved stone structure. Christians constructed the facility in 1194. Medieval Muslim baths and the baths of ancient Rome were the inspiration for the Arab Baths, though the architectural style is mostly Romanesque.
Visitors can explore the five rooms of the Arab Baths on a self-guided tour. The first room you enter, perhaps the grandest, is the apodyterium or dressing room. It was a place used for changing clothes and socializing. The cold room, known as the frigidarium, was enclosed by two double doors to keep the bath water cold. It was meant to be used at the end of a bathhouse visit.
Next, you'll find the warm room called the tepidarium. This room was a place that boasted more comfortable temperatures for relaxing, conversing, or enjoying a meal. The caldarium was the hottest room, similar to a hot sauna or steam room. In the adjoining furnace room, an ancient central heating system known as a hypocaust helped heat the caldarium and keep it steamed up!
The establishment functioned as a bath until its closure in the 15th century. Thenceforth, it had passed into private hands and been put to different uses. In 1617, a Capuchin convent used the building as a pantry, kitchen, and laundry. Throughout the 19th century, the term “Arab Baths” got firmly attached to the site.
More recently, the baths gained fame as The Baths of Braavos featured in the acclaimed Game of Thrones series. One of the prevalent themes in season six is the hunting of Arya Stark by the waif. You may remember the iconic chase scene through the city which culminates in a terrifying climax. At one point, while fleeing from the waif, Arya ends up entering the baths, trying to hide.
When in here, make sure to pay a visit to the rooftop as you will enjoy some truly incredible views from up there, including the stone-domed skylight.
Visitors can explore the five rooms of the Arab Baths on a self-guided tour. The first room you enter, perhaps the grandest, is the apodyterium or dressing room. It was a place used for changing clothes and socializing. The cold room, known as the frigidarium, was enclosed by two double doors to keep the bath water cold. It was meant to be used at the end of a bathhouse visit.
Next, you'll find the warm room called the tepidarium. This room was a place that boasted more comfortable temperatures for relaxing, conversing, or enjoying a meal. The caldarium was the hottest room, similar to a hot sauna or steam room. In the adjoining furnace room, an ancient central heating system known as a hypocaust helped heat the caldarium and keep it steamed up!
The establishment functioned as a bath until its closure in the 15th century. Thenceforth, it had passed into private hands and been put to different uses. In 1617, a Capuchin convent used the building as a pantry, kitchen, and laundry. Throughout the 19th century, the term “Arab Baths” got firmly attached to the site.
More recently, the baths gained fame as The Baths of Braavos featured in the acclaimed Game of Thrones series. One of the prevalent themes in season six is the hunting of Arya Stark by the waif. You may remember the iconic chase scene through the city which culminates in a terrifying climax. At one point, while fleeing from the waif, Arya ends up entering the baths, trying to hide.
When in here, make sure to pay a visit to the rooftop as you will enjoy some truly incredible views from up there, including the stone-domed skylight.
4) Passeig De La Muralla (Ancient City Walls) (must see)
The Ancient City Walls of Girona were built as a fortification to protect the city from invaders. The walls encircle the medieval old town of Girona. The original fortification was constructed by the Romans in 1 B.C. The Roman wall was later used as a foundation when the wall was rebuilt during the 14th century.
For centuries, this fortification protected the city against numerous sieges (Girona has undergone 25 sieges during its lengthy history). In the 19th century, the western side of the defensive walls was torn down to allow for city expansion. The eastern side was abandoned and later reconstructed, with missing segments of the walls restored.
Walking the old city walls of Girona is a must-do on your exploration around the city. From the top of the walls, you can see gorgeous panoramic views of the city, the terracotta rooftops — and, in the distance, the Pyrenees Mountains and the surrounding countryside.
There are several access points available that offer entry or exit for your walk atop the wall. Built into this fortification are various window openings and narrow arrow slits to peek through. A climb up one of the watch towers along the way offers even more of a bird's-eye view!
To walk the route along the entire wall can take an hour or two, but it is well worth the time as the views of Girona from above are breathtaking. Be sure to look for some of the Girona city landmarks from this high-up vantage point — you can't miss the magnificent bell tower of the Girona Cathedral that rises above the city skyline!
For centuries, this fortification protected the city against numerous sieges (Girona has undergone 25 sieges during its lengthy history). In the 19th century, the western side of the defensive walls was torn down to allow for city expansion. The eastern side was abandoned and later reconstructed, with missing segments of the walls restored.
Walking the old city walls of Girona is a must-do on your exploration around the city. From the top of the walls, you can see gorgeous panoramic views of the city, the terracotta rooftops — and, in the distance, the Pyrenees Mountains and the surrounding countryside.
There are several access points available that offer entry or exit for your walk atop the wall. Built into this fortification are various window openings and narrow arrow slits to peek through. A climb up one of the watch towers along the way offers even more of a bird's-eye view!
To walk the route along the entire wall can take an hour or two, but it is well worth the time as the views of Girona from above are breathtaking. Be sure to look for some of the Girona city landmarks from this high-up vantage point — you can't miss the magnificent bell tower of the Girona Cathedral that rises above the city skyline!
5) Torre Gironella (Gironella Tower)
Torre Gironella (Gironella Tower) is an old fortress in the city of Gerona. It is a building in the city of Girona, declared a Cultural Asset of National Interest.
It is a group of ruins of a tower located in the eastern part of Girona. Mix of different eras: Roman bases, medieval walls and later reinforcements and extensions. Noteworthy are the clearly visible remains of a Roman square tower, which sinks under the embankment. In the same way, the barrel vault that rests on the Roman tower stands out. The access patio remains, with stone stairs. In the courtyard is the door of Juana Enríquez.
The Torre Gironella is the highest point of the Roman wall of the Old Quarter of Girona, and it was believed for a long time that the first inhabited nucleus of the city had been found there. It was possibly an Iberian settlement, due to the remains of Iberian pottery found in the Telegraph Tower. The Romanesque remains date from approximately the 3rd century, as well as the remains of what could be an aqueduct. The Telegraph Tower is also of Roman origin. Traditionally, this tower is believed to have been built by the legendary Geryon.
There is evidence of its existence since the year 994. Around the year 1000, Count Ramon Borrell III built the tower to the east and created the Castle of Gironella, including the Roman towers within the enclosure. 3 In the year 1190 it is already named in the official chronicles with the consideration of a castle. In the year 1404, the tower collapsed on its own. In 1411, Francisco Borrassà was commissioned to rebuild the tower, but with a smaller size. Due to the events of the Catalan Civil War of 1462, Doña Juana Enríquez reinforced the castle again. In the year 1814 the Napoleonic forces blew it up.
It is a group of ruins of a tower located in the eastern part of Girona. Mix of different eras: Roman bases, medieval walls and later reinforcements and extensions. Noteworthy are the clearly visible remains of a Roman square tower, which sinks under the embankment. In the same way, the barrel vault that rests on the Roman tower stands out. The access patio remains, with stone stairs. In the courtyard is the door of Juana Enríquez.
The Torre Gironella is the highest point of the Roman wall of the Old Quarter of Girona, and it was believed for a long time that the first inhabited nucleus of the city had been found there. It was possibly an Iberian settlement, due to the remains of Iberian pottery found in the Telegraph Tower. The Romanesque remains date from approximately the 3rd century, as well as the remains of what could be an aqueduct. The Telegraph Tower is also of Roman origin. Traditionally, this tower is believed to have been built by the legendary Geryon.
There is evidence of its existence since the year 994. Around the year 1000, Count Ramon Borrell III built the tower to the east and created the Castle of Gironella, including the Roman towers within the enclosure. 3 In the year 1190 it is already named in the official chronicles with the consideration of a castle. In the year 1404, the tower collapsed on its own. In 1411, Francisco Borrassà was commissioned to rebuild the tower, but with a smaller size. Due to the events of the Catalan Civil War of 1462, Doña Juana Enríquez reinforced the castle again. In the year 1814 the Napoleonic forces blew it up.
Sight description based on Wikipedia.
6) Ascent of San Domenec - Braavos Market
La Pujada de Sant Domènec (the Ascent of San Domenec) is a very interesting piece of stonework in the heart of Girona's charming historic district of Barri Vell. The ancient neighborhood was built in the 14th-17th centuries and is home to several attractions including the Renaissance-style Palace of Calemany, the Agullana Palace, and the neoclassical-baroque church of Sant Martí Sacosta which dominates the area from the top of the stairs.
This stepped street is a bit steep, so it's probably not to be attempted by those with a heart condition. However, if you feel fit enough, you should be able to brave it without pain.
One of the favorite tourist locations in Girona, also loved by the locals, is the Le Bistrot restaurant with a terrace, found right beneath the arched span in the middle of the steps. Another lovely spot here, that is usually passed unnoticed, is the Taller de Encolados Ensesa. This shop is well worth checking out too, especially in May, during Girona's “Temps de Flors” annual floral festival.
In recent years, this photogenic passage made several appearances in movies, the first of which was “Perfume: The Story of a Murderer” made in 2016. Most notably, however, the Ascent of San Domènec was one of the filming locations for the sixth season of Game of Thrones. There, you can see it when Arya Stark stumbles and rolls down the flight of stairs, overturning several baskets of oranges in the eighth episode.
This stepped street is a bit steep, so it's probably not to be attempted by those with a heart condition. However, if you feel fit enough, you should be able to brave it without pain.
One of the favorite tourist locations in Girona, also loved by the locals, is the Le Bistrot restaurant with a terrace, found right beneath the arched span in the middle of the steps. Another lovely spot here, that is usually passed unnoticed, is the Taller de Encolados Ensesa. This shop is well worth checking out too, especially in May, during Girona's “Temps de Flors” annual floral festival.
In recent years, this photogenic passage made several appearances in movies, the first of which was “Perfume: The Story of a Murderer” made in 2016. Most notably, however, the Ascent of San Domènec was one of the filming locations for the sixth season of Game of Thrones. There, you can see it when Arya Stark stumbles and rolls down the flight of stairs, overturning several baskets of oranges in the eighth episode.
7) Jewish Quarter and Jewish History Museum (must see)
The Jewish Quarter of Girona is a magnificent maze of cobbled alleyways lined with medieval stone buildings. Along the narrow streets, ancient stone stairways, and arched passageways, you'll find dozens of small shops, restaurants, coffee houses, and inviting courtyards situated amid the historic structures.
This neighborhood dates from the 12th century and is known as one of Europe's most well-preserved Jewish quarters. At one time, Jews in medieval Girona were actually forbidden from living outside El Call. The area was home to the Jewish community of Girona until 1492 when those that refused to convert to Catholicism were expelled from Spain.
The Museum of Jewish History (Museu d'Història dels Jueus) is housed in a renovated building that was once a medieval synagogue. In the museum's beautiful courtyard is a large Star of David. The museum features 11 exhibition spaces showcasing the history, religion, and culture of the Jewish community of medieval Catalonia and the city of Girona.
The Jewish History Museum features artifacts and displays relating to the origins, family life, and occupations of the Jewish community in Girona. Don't miss the three-dimensional model of the Jewish Quarter. The museum also offers temporary exhibits and a specialty shop with books, gifts, and souvenirs.
This neighborhood dates from the 12th century and is known as one of Europe's most well-preserved Jewish quarters. At one time, Jews in medieval Girona were actually forbidden from living outside El Call. The area was home to the Jewish community of Girona until 1492 when those that refused to convert to Catholicism were expelled from Spain.
The Museum of Jewish History (Museu d'Història dels Jueus) is housed in a renovated building that was once a medieval synagogue. In the museum's beautiful courtyard is a large Star of David. The museum features 11 exhibition spaces showcasing the history, religion, and culture of the Jewish community of medieval Catalonia and the city of Girona.
The Jewish History Museum features artifacts and displays relating to the origins, family life, and occupations of the Jewish community in Girona. Don't miss the three-dimensional model of the Jewish Quarter. The museum also offers temporary exhibits and a specialty shop with books, gifts, and souvenirs.