If you are thinking of taking a different and unusual trip, you are in the right place. Today we recommend a guided tour of Girona and its arab baths, which will be everything you need to free yourself from the stress and tensions of the routine. This Catalan city has numerous attractions that never go unnoticed by tourists and locals.
Girona, in the northeast of Catalonia, is a small medieval city that attracts visitors with its picturesque houses, its romantic old town and its imposing Cathedral. An ideal excursion to enjoy during a family vacation, a romantic getaway or with friends and, why not, even by yourself!
One of his most important interests is the opportunity to visit the famous Arab baths of Girona. The experience is unique and worth it from start to finish. If you want to know more about this topic, be sure to read this article.
How much do you know about Girona?
Before telling you why it is worth visiting Girona, let’s answer another common question:
Where is Girona?
Girona is only an hour and a half by car from Barcelona towards the north of Catalonia. Also, you can easily travel from Barcelona to Girona by train or bus.
What is its history?
The Romans founded the city in 218 BC. C. Initially, it was given the name Gerunda. Later, it became an important city of the Roman Empire during its heyday as the capital of Hispania Citerior. This was the province that includes present-day Catalonia. It also served as the center for Jewish life at the time, with a population of 7,000 Jews.
Why is it worth taking a tour of Girona?
Really, a tour of Girona is a magnificent opportunity to change scenery. If you are planning to take a vacation, don’t miss out on this wonderful destination. Right now we will tell you some reasons why you should visit Girona.
Girona is a magnificent city with a rich history, beautiful architecture and a vibrant food scene. Most likely, you know little or nothing about Girona. However, it is one of the most interesting cities in the world.
Its rich history can be seen in every corner of this Catalan city. Particularly in the Medieval Quarter, with its narrow streets and its rich culture. In fact, this place alone is worth a day trip.
However, there are many other reasons why you should consider making Girona your base to explore Catalonia rather than other cities. One of the tourist attractions that you cannot miss are the Arab baths of Girona, among many others.
Additionally, Girona is considered cheaper and quieter than Barcelona. And, while tourists flock to its historic attractions, the crowds are manageable. It is a good destination for solo trips, but it is still perfect for a getaway as a couple or in a group.
What makes the Arab baths of Girona so interesting?
At the foot of the Cathedral, a small dome leans out over a stone building. It is the lantern of the Arab baths of Girona. The same one that identifies the silhouette of this little jewel.
The building captivates by the simplicity of its forms and, once inside, by the beauty of the game between light and darkness. The building is Romanesque in style, but is modeled after Roman baths, Arab baths, and Jewish mikvehs.
All this stems from a tradition that was recovered during the 11th century, with the development of urban centers and the need to improve hygiene. The interesting construction is divided into several rooms that allow you to go from the areas with colder water to those with hotter water.
The visitor enters through a small vestibule that goes up to the apodyterium or dressing room. This is, without a doubt, the most emblematic space of the baths, with a central pool with 8 sides and 8 columns topped with beautiful decorated chapiters.
Until the fourteenth century, the building maintained its activity as public baths. In the 20th century, the Arab baths were restored to their original appearance.
A bit of history about the Arab baths of Girona
The Arab Baths of Girona are a 12th-century Romanesque creation built for King Alfonso I. Located just around the corner from Girona Cathedral, the baths are a unusual and historical tourist attraction.
The first mention of public baths in Girona dates back to 1194. The complex was partially destroyed in 1285 during the siege by the troops of Felipe III the Bold of France. They were rebuilt between 1294 and 1296 and later incorporated into the convent built on the site in the 17th century.
In the 19th century they were the object of interest and study by the first travelers, who, documenting the baths through drawings and engravings, made them known to the whole world. They were bought and then restored. They were finally reopened to the public in 1932.
Arab baths in Girona today
Right now, visitors can access the Girona Arab Baths with its impressive stonework, majestic columns, rectangular structure, frigidarium, apodyterium and octagonal pool. Admission is free for children under 8 years of age and only costs 3 euros for other customers.
Concerts are occasionally held in the baths due to the wonderful acoustics and atmospheric setting.
Conclusions
Truth be told, most people choose to visit Girona on a day trip from Barcelona. However, the incredible variety of things to do in and around Girona means that you can easily spend several days exploring all that the region has to offer. Indeed, Girona is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway. Even more so when you have the opportunity to visit the wonderful Arab baths of Girona and live an unparalleled experience. What are you waiting for?
