One of the things that we can do in Spain and that we cannot do in other countries of the world is to travel in time. Yes! You read correctly! Logically, we are not speaking literally, although almost. And there are many towns and cities that have been preserved as they were centuries ago, so walking through them can be an incredible experience. And in Catalonia you can find some of them.
Today we want to tell you about one of the best preserved medieval towns in Spain. We are referring to Besalú, considered one of the most beautiful towns in Catalonia. And it is that this National Historical-Artistic Ensemble will allow you to travel to the Middle Ages. Do you want to discover this beautiful place further? Well, you just have to join us!
Meeting between cultures
It is not surprising that Besalú has been a Historic-Artistic Site since 1966, since here you can find numerous monuments of the Medieval Villa. In fact, it is practically impossible to find a town with so much heritage per square meter. Belonging to the region of GarrotxaThis population is located at 150 meters of altitude and has an extension of 4.81 square kilometers. Thanks to its geographical location, the population settled here in remote times and has always been a meeting place between different cultures, which has favored the enrichment of the town's heritage.
Important historical monuments
The original name of this town was Bisuldunum, which made reference to the fact that it was a fortress located between two rivers: the Capellades to the north and the Fluviá to the south. As soon as you cross the stone bridge that leads to the historic center, one of the main attractions of the place, you will fully enter the Middle Ages, since you can walk through stone streets and see important historical monuments, such as the churches of Sant Pere, Sant Vicenç or Santa María, which combine Gothic elements with other Romanesque ones; the Palace of the Royal Curia, which served to administer justice; or the Cornellá Romanesque house. Of course, we cannot forget the important heritage that has been preserved from the Jewish community, which lived in the town from the 11th to the mid-15th century. Among them, the Jewish baths stand out.
The bridge
As we have just mentioned, the bridge that leads to the historic center is one of the great attractions of Besalú. And it is that this original seven-arched construction from the XI-XII centuries, although it has suffered several reforms over the centuries, it is truly fascinating. At the end is the Portal del Pont (Portal del Puente), which is protected by a fortified tower.
medieval fair
Any time is good to visit Besalú, but if you want your time travel to be complete, we recommend that you do so during the Medieval Fair, which normally takes place on the last weekend of August or the first of September, like this year. . During these days, the center of the village is transformed into the old county offering all kinds of shows and typical products of the time. Best of all, the streets are filled with characters who play troubadours, musicians, jugglers, court figures ... Of course, there are no shortage of handicrafts, souvenirs and food stalls. In addition, you will be able to observe medieval fights with historical weapons. The only bad thing is that to enjoy this spectacular medieval fair you have to pay, although it is worth spending the 3 euros at the entrance.
Then we leave you with our Gallery, where you will find more beautiful photographs of the medieval town of Besalú. Do not miss it!
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