The city of GIRONA is just an 80 minute bus or train ride from the city of Barcelona. It is fortified with an ancient wall standing aloof like a fortress on a hill way above the Onyar River.

History of Girona

Girona has been embattled in many wars over the centuries, as it was usually the ‘prize possession’ of its conquerors since it was a Roman fortress at the time of Via Augusta, taking on an ancient name, Gerunda. Through its Roman influence, it has retained the uniqueness of its first inhabitants.

Then the Moors came and conquered; Girona took on the Arabic influence for more than 200 years, which is depicted clearly in its labyrinth of alleyways at the city centre. Next, the Jews settled for about 600 years bringing with them the distinct Hebrew lifestyle. Still, Girona continued to be embroiled in battles, as many as 21, even in the 18th century until it was called ‘Immortal’ in the 19th century, surviving through these attacks, especially through the 7-month French assault in 1809.

These events, no doubt, left a deep impression on this city in some way or another since the various architectural styles have influenced the city’s form, ranging from Romanesque classic through today’s modern structures. These add value as well as beauty to this city today, making it an attractive city to visit set in a medieval atmosphere with the impressive river Onyar flowing close by.

Getting around the City

The River Onyar separates the ancient part of Girona on its east while the modern section lies on its west; but it is the old part that attracts the visitors as there are historical moments to appreciate on this side of the river. Nevertheless, it is barely a 30-minute walk from one side to the other for easy exploration of the whole area.

It is very convenient to get to Girona as trains depart at regular time intervals from Santa Estacio. One may try the bus rides which are fewer by comparison, as the journey time remains the same. There are taxis plying the train station for the visitors’ convenience.

Incidentally, there is an airport at Girona which is located 13km south from the heart of the city and caters to chartered flights from Costa Brava. You will need to get a taxi into town as there is no bus plying the airport route.

The tourist center at the train center opens during the summer with a main office at the east side of the ancient part of town. It provides maps of Girona, bus times, accommodation listings and train timetables and is serviced by local staff who speaks English.

A holiday where you can enjoy the comfort of your own villa may be a great option vakantiehuizen mallorca, villa estartit and vakantiehuizen pals Club Villamar select for you in all regions popular vacation and here you can also read my Bookmarks Benton Harbor and read my Blogs Benton Harbor.

To add a comment please login by clicking here