Introduction
Girona is arguably Catalonia's prettiest city and a major attraction for travellers. Set on the confluence of four rivers, the Ter, Onyar, Güell and Galligants, the ancient city's striking pastel coloured houses, arched stone bridges and narrow cobbled streets make a trip to Girona a memorable one.
Girona has experienced an interesting history of sieges and wars ever since the Franks took the city from the Muslims in 797. Its attraction was perhaps Girona's grand wealth, which resulted in the many Gothic and Romanesque buildings dotted about the city today. Indeed, Girona is still one of Spain's most prosperous provinces and numerous small galleries, boutique shops and designer clothes shops that line the city's cool, cobbled streets reflect this affluence.
Sant Feliu Collegiate Church, Cathedral of Saint Mary, Girona
Girona is a wonderful city for walking in, with a whole host of heritage sites easily seen even on a day trip - although it's well worth spending longer here if you can. The city's cathedral is a grand building that looks right across the city. Inside is the world's widest gothic nave, stretching 22 metres across, while another city highlight is just down the road from here - the Banys Arabs, public baths that first opened in the 12th Century. Of Girona's numerous museums, the Museu d'Art, which displays a fine collection of Romanesque, Gothic and modern artworks is perhaps the most impressive.
Passageway, Pals, Girona