The Beauty of the Catalan Variety
What is the most beautiful town in Catalonia? This is a question that often comes up in conversations between friends and always generates a variety of answers. Some people consider Cadaqués, the coastal jewel of the Costa Brava, with its brightly colored fishermen’s houses and cobbled streets, to be the most splendid town. Others prefer mountainous landscapes and think that places like Siurana, National Geographic’s latest recommendation, are more suitable for a family getaway. Regardless of everyone’s tastes, every corner of the Catalan territory has a unique charm.
Besalú: An Enchanting Destiny
This month, the prestigious international magazine has chosen Besalú as the recommended destination. This small town located in the Garrotxa region has captivated attention for its architectural and landscape richness. Its beauty is so extraordinary that some describe it as a town that seems straight out of a fairy tale. Besalú has been the scene of several television productions, such as Game of Thrones, which have used its streets and bridges as a backdrop, just as it has happened in the streets of Girona’s old quarter.
A Bridge to History
The most outstanding element of Besalú is its entrance bridge, which has withstood the passage of time and undergone several transformations, including those carried out by Pons Sorolla to repair the damage caused during the Civil War. This bridge, according to the magazine, opens the doors to history.
Historical and Architectural Wealth
Once inside the municipality, you can appreciate the historical vestiges of Besalú, which contributed to its designation as a National Historic Site in 1966. National Geographic particularly highlights the ‘Jewish street’, considered one of the best preserved in Europe, as well as other Romanesque jewels such as the Church of Sant Vicenç, the Monastery of Sant Pere, the Old Church-Hospital of Sant Julià and the House of Cornellà. Cobbled streets, porches and arches reveal other attractions of this historic town.
Gastronomic Delights
National Geographic not only highlights architecture, but also highlights the importance of tasting local products. A trip to Besalú is not complete without trying the honey from La Garrotxa, the sausages and the wide variety of cheeses from the area, accompanied by a glass of Ratafia de Besalú.