Sights of Tarragona, Spain. What to see in Tarragona. Sights of Tarragona: how to get into the spirit of history in a modern city in ➀ day Entertainment in Tarragona Spain

Tarragona is the main city on the Costa Dorada. There are cities in the world whose greatness and glory remain in the distant past, and today they are only enjoying the “dividends” of their legendary past, thanks to which they turned into a tourist Mecca. This is exactly the fate that befell Tarragona. In the era of Ancient Rome, Tarragona was the capital of one of the largest Roman provinces - Tarragona Spain. Today, it is a quiet, calm, resort town located on the Costa Dorada. Today only ancient ruins, picturesquely inscribed in the modern face of the city, remind us of the glorious past of Tarragona.

Geography

Tarragona is located in the northeastern part of the Iberian Peninsula in the autonomous region of Catalonia. The city is located on the left bank of the small river Francoli (Riu Francoli) on low hills, which provided excellent protective characteristics in ancient times, and now they allow you to enjoy beautiful views. Its location on the sea coast created all the conditions for organizing trade - now Tarragona is one of the largest Spanish ports with a large turnover of goods, despite the rather small population - just under 150 thousand people. But several times more tourists come every year. The seaside location ensured that the city stretched along the coast with numerous beaches. The Mediterranean Sea can be seen from almost anywhere in Tarragona, and the golden sands can be quickly reached from anywhere in the city. After a small reconstruction, the city was divided into two parts by Rambla Nova, on one side of which there is the old part with architectural monuments, on the other - the newer and more modern one. All districts of Tarragona developed historically and passed into the modern administrative structure almost unchanged. In relation to the prime meridian, the city is in the time zone UTC+1 in winter, and UTC+2 in summer.

Climate

The weather in Tarragona pleases tourists and local residents with excellent conditions for recreation. The climate is Mediterranean with minimal continental influence, warm and pleasant. There are practically no really cold months; even in winter the temperature rarely drops below +10-12°C, which allows you to travel around Catalonia comfortably. Spring and autumn are rather weakly defined, as the weather changes barely noticeably. The only difference is a slightly higher amount of precipitation. As a rule, it rains in winter, early spring and late autumn. Then there may be storms and small hurricanes - the influence of the nearby sea affects. Summer in Tarragona lasts from May to September, when the weather is persistently hot with temperatures ranging from +22°C to +31°C. But the heat is not felt much, since the sea air masses cool the air a little and you will not feel discomfort. As throughout Spain, it is customary to take a siesta here during the hottest hours of the day - this is from 13:00 to 17:00, when it is better to hide in the shade. Those who want to visit the sights and beautiful surroundings can travel to Tarragona at any time of the year. Sea lovers from all over Europe come during the season from late May to early September - the sea is warm, the weather is gentle - sunbathing on the city's beaches, and walking at night is a pleasure.

Story

The first settlement on the site of Tarragona dates back to the end of the 5th century BC, when local Iberian tribes settled here. In 218 BC. Roman troops occupied the site and established an outpost here for further expansion. By 27 BC. Tarraco, the oldest Roman settlement on the Iberian Peninsula, grew greatly and became the starting point for conquests. The city was the capital of one of the provinces and one of the largest settlements, with imperial palaces, an amphitheater, a circus for chariot competitions, shopping districts, an aqueduct, baths and other buildings. All surviving Roman buildings and quarters have been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. After the collapse of the empire, until 1117, Tarragona was under the rule of the Moorish Caliphate, and then temporarily became the capital of the Kingdom of Aragon. Tarragona has always had an important commercial importance, since the port was founded by the Romans and united the city with the entire Mediterranean. After the unification of Spain, the city retained its status as the capital of the region, before it was transferred to Barcelona, ​​as well as the title of the main port in the northeast.

In the Middle Ages, the Cathedral was founded, one of the largest at that time. It was erected on the site of the first Christian church, which was in Tarragona, and which the Romans burned down while persecuting believers. Along with Spain, Tarragona also flourished, remaining an important cultural and commercial center. The Industrial Revolution affected the city, where various manufactories and factories appeared, transport and tourism developed. It was thanks to the long beaches and pleasant climate that Tarragona became a kind of center of the Costa Dorada (Golden Coast), where the aristocracy and middle class from all over Europe gathered. In modern times, Tarragona occupies an important place in tourism and culture, is an important commercial and industrial port of Spain, a mandatory stop for cruise ships, a center for water sports, and a city with a rich heritage and history. All this attracts millions of tourists, both lovers of antiquity, beachgoers, party-goers, and families with children.

Sights of Tarragona

• The city of Tarragona in Spain attracts many tourists due to its unique attractions. One of the main attractions of Tarragona are the walls of the ancient Roman city of Tarraco. Ancient examples of Roman architecture have survived to the present day, and are an architectural masterpiece included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. The Roman walls are available for viewing by every visitor. It is worth taking the time to walk along the “Archaeological Route”, and guests will discover a unique architectural splendor. The majestic walls have been preserved in excellent condition, although their length has decreased by almost 2.5 thousand meters.

• Another attraction of Tarragona is the Cathedral of Saint Thecla. Construction of the cathedral began in 1171, on the site where the shrine of the Roman god Jupiter once stood. The cathedral underwent the sacrament of consecration in 1331. The Cathedral of St. Thecla is an example of architecture that combines Romanesque and Gothic cultures. The entrance is through a gallery and a cool, shady garden. Immediately behind the gallery, in the eastern part of the cathedral, is the diocese museum, which is famous for its many valuable exhibits. There is a staircase leading to the cathedral near the central façade; its walls are decorated with elements of carved bas-relief depicting episodes of the Last Judgment. The cathedral is richly decorated with carvings and stained glass windows.
• The Centenario fountain is considered the pearl of the city - this landmark of Tarragona was built in 1954. The architectural object combines several directions of different styles - Catalan Baroque, Art Nouveau and movements in Greek sculpture. These styles were combined by the sculptor Josep Viladomat, who was an evolutionist who brought many masterpiece projects into reality.
• Rambla is traditional for Spanish cities, a wide boulevard descending to the sea. There are two of them in Tarragona - Old and New, and they run parallel. The old Rambla on the coast ends with an observation deck - the "Balcony of the Mediterranean".
• It is curious that the modern road that runs along the sea is the former Roman Via Augusta. In ancient times, there was a paved ramp leading from Cadiz to Rome. At the beginning of the street stands a marble statue of Emperor Augustus, which the Italian Benito Mussolini gave to Francis Franco.
• Once a year, the modern Catalan city of Tarragona turns into the ancient Roman Tarraco. Fans of historical reconstructions from all over the world come here and put on shows. It is within the old part of the city that the holiday takes place. Such shows are great for bringing ancient ruins to life. Participants restore Roman robes with special care. Each of them knows perfectly well what the soldiers were wearing and how to wear this or that ammunition. The price of such a hobby is quite high - an average cost legionnaire costume will cost the same price as a good car.

Events and festivals

The Spaniards love to relax and have fun, and the Catalans especially. Tarragona has such a rich historical past that the city boasts a large number of different fairs and festivals dedicated to different holidays, such as Christian, national or ancient Roman. Therefore, at any time, whenever you visit the city, there is a chance to get to the next celebration. The largest and most famous are:

• end of February - beginning of March (dates change every year) - the famous Carnival in honor of the end of winter. Several days of processions, celebrations, fairs with the ritual burning of effigy;
• early April - International Jazz Music Festival - a whole week in all cafes, bars and pubs they play only this music, both famous performers and little-known groups;
• Easter, the main holiday of Christians, is celebrated magnificently, starting on Good Friday and ending on Easter Sunday;
• April 23 - Feast of St. George - a celebration of love and affection, when locals give each other roses and books;
• May is the month of antiquity and ancient Roman history. During this period, the famous Tarraco Viva festival takes place and the city returns to its roots. For several weeks, Tarragona is filled with legionnaires, gladiators and other costumed groups. There are famous theatrical fights, street concerts, a festival of food prepared according to ancient Roman recipes;
• the night of June 24th is the “devil's ball” in honor of Saint John. There are numerous fairs and street performances. A distinctive feature of the holiday is living pyramids, when people build real tall castles, standing on top of each other. Male and female acrobats participate equally in these performances;

• June 26 - traditional parade Magi De Les Timbales - at the head of the procession rides a horseman-drummer, announcing the beginning of the holiday;
• early July - an international class fireworks festival takes place on the beaches of Tarragona. All night the sky over the city is illuminated with unusual fireworks;
• August 16-19 - a fun carnival with funny costumes - there are giants and dwarfs, tadpoles, scary and funny unusual characters;
• September 15-24 is the largest local holiday of Saint Thecla, the patroness of the city. This is not one holiday, but several fiestas, each of which is attractive in its own right. At this time, you can see almost everything that Tarragona is famous for - Roman residents, medieval knights, dragon fights, parades, processions, carnivals, theatrical and musical performances. And, of course, treats throughout the city;
• December - Christmas markets and carnivals lasting until the 31st.

Restaurants and cafes

What to eat in the sea city? Of course, seafood in various forms and executions - history itself has created the peculiarities of local cuisine. Naturally, in such a developed tourist place there are restaurants and cafes of different world trends - you can buy pizza, Thai and Chinese dishes, French and Scandinavian delights. But it’s better to try what Tarragona has been famous for since the times of the Roman Empire - many recipes have been preserved almost unchanged. The city even has a festival dedicated to food - what a reason to try:

• Romesco sauce (Salsa Romesco) - with hot pepper and roasted nuts. Goes great with seafood and is part of a traditional treat;
• cassola (cassola) - casserole with seafood and various sauces;
• fideus rossejats - paella-like, fried noodles with fish pieces;
• calciotada - green sweet onions baked over fire.

Naturally, you can try fish and seafood almost everywhere in Tarragona, in all its variety of types and types - in street and family cafes, restaurants, and on small street stalls. The richest area for freshly caught fish is the fishing quarter of El Serallo. An equally popular gastronomic place is the Camp de Mart garden area.

Shopping

Even though Tarragona is a fairly small city, the high volume of tourists has meant that the city has plenty of shopping options. The shopping centers have boutiques of world brands, as well as stores of local brands of clothing, shoes and accessories. The proximity of the Costa Dorada provides a very large selection of shopping places that are popular with locals and tourists. From Tarragona you should definitely bring as a souvenir:

• white wines of the Tarragona plain, red wines of Priorat (they write on the label - denominacion de origen: Tarragona / Priorat);
• jamon, brandy, pastries and sweets;
• souvenirs made of porcelain and ceramics - like classic cups, plates, magnets, key rings with different images; and small copies of local attractions - an aqueduct, an amphitheater, a cathedral and others;
• terracotta figurines for which Tarragona is so famous;
• lace fans of various styles and colors;
• castanets, clothes and shoes for flamenco;
• figurines of Torro bulls, gladiators, dancers - everything that reveals the deep historical roots of the city.

You can buy souvenirs and local original products in numerous small shops and stalls located on the main street, near attractions, and on the beaches. Large stores and shopping centers also have souvenir departments. At the same time, the cost is practically the same, since in a small city everything is located near the center.

How to get to Tarragona?

From Moscow, St. Petersburg and other large Russian cities, Tarragona can be quickly reached through Barcelona, ​​where European airlines, charters and low-cost airlines constantly fly. The central airport of the Catalan capital is less than 100 kilometers from the city. Trains and buses run regularly to Tarragona itself - in a short time you can comfortably get to the very center of the city. The second popular route is through Reus airport, where dozens of flights arrive to the Costa Dorada. Transport links are also good and allow you to get to Tarragona very quickly. By train - you can get to the Mediterranean post using high-speed lines from Madrid, Barcelona, ​​Alicante, Zaragoza. The train station is a 10-15 minute walk to the city center. The high-speed train network is integrated with French lines, and therefore allows you to reach your destination across Europe. There is also a bus station nearby, connecting the city with most Spanish and European cities. From Madrid, Barcelona, ​​Lisbon, Marseille you can get there by comfortable bus. Several important highways pass through Tarragona - getting there by car will be quite easy, since the highways are in good condition, and following the signs it is quite easy to get to one of the largest ports on the Mediterranean coast.

Transport

Tarragona's main public transport network consists of bus routes that circle the entire city, connecting it with other Catalan localities. An extensive system allows you to quickly get from one end of Tarragona to the other. Modern buses are equipped with the latest technology, and a city card allows you to save on fees if you stay at the famous resort for a long time. The second most popular type of urban transport is rail. Since Tarragona is a major trading hub, the local equivalent of the train allows you to quickly move around the city and its suburbs. Bicycles are available for rent almost everywhere, especially in park areas, near hotels and famous attractions. Getting around on a bike is possible everywhere, including pedestrian areas of the historical center. The city's challenging terrain and numerous recreational areas make getting around Tarragona a real pleasure. Taxis are the most ubiquitous transport on the Costa Dorada. The cost is not much different from resort suburbs, and you can call a taxi from any cafe, restaurant, or hotel. In practice, it is better to order a car by phone, since street taxi drivers usually increase the fare. Renting a car is one of the convenient ways to get around, as you will definitely want to visit popular resort suburbs. Traffic is not very busy, there are enough parking spaces. The only limitation is that Tarragona has many pedestrian areas where cars are not allowed. There are international and local rental agencies in the city.

Accommodation

A distinctive feature of the city on the Mediterranean coast is that there are all kinds of different places to stay - family and chain hotels, new hotels and centuries-old hotels, hostels, apartments and campsites on the shore. The latter are especially popular, since for your money you get a small bungalow on the seashore with access to the beach. The most popular remain Caledonia, Trillas Platja Tamarit and some others. Camping in Tarragona remains on par with other similar places scattered throughout the Costa Dorada - tourists are offered a comfortable place to stay, no different in service from hotels or rental apartments. The star rating of a hotel has a certain convention, since the volume of mandatory services is almost the same everywhere, but differs only in additional services and the location of the hotel in the city. Among the four-star hotels, the Hotel SB Ciutat de Tarragona, Tarraco Park Tarragona stands out; in the three-star network - Astari, Nuria; There are a lot of two-star hotels and hostels in the city and its surroundings, and they are all designed for budget tourists, and with approximately the same level of service. There are many apartments for rent in Tarragona that have a modern design and are located in different areas. The only condition that applies to hotels is that you need to book in advance, especially during festivals and national holidays.

Connection

Catalonia is very well covered by the network of mobile operators - both international and Spanish. The proximity of the resorts ensures high quality communications, normal roaming costs - if you are traveling around Spain, it is better to buy a card from a local operator, if not, even international communications will not greatly affect your score. Wireless Internet coverage covers the whole of Tarragona - not excluding areas declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wi-Fi is available in all catering establishments, shopping and entertainment centers, hotels, amusement parks, and on all city beaches. Access is free almost everywhere, but increasing the connection speed may cost an additional fee. Public transport everywhere has the Internet, which works quite well.

1. If you are in Tarragona in winter, you should definitely visit the famous Carnival. This bewitching, intriguing and magical action takes place in the city from February 14th to 21st.
2. Considering the fact that Tarragona is a port city, the local cuisine is full of fish dishes and abounds in seafood. The positive thing is that most of the ingredients for seafood dishes are caught directly on the day of preparation, which always guarantees the freshness of the products.
3. The city map “TarraGOna Card” will be very useful for tourists. This special card (for 24, 48 or 72 hours) will give you such privileges as: the opportunity to visit more than 20 museums and historical attractions for free, the right to free travel on any public transport (except taxis), as well as receive a discount of 10-20% in more than 50 restaurants, bars, shops, spa centers and taxis.

Tarragona on the map, panorama

Tarragona is the oldest city in the province of the same name in Southern Catalonia (Spain). The cultural and historical significance of the city combines the sights of the Roman Empire, included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites with medieval Gothic.

Tarragona was founded by the Romans during the Punic Wars with Carthage for world domination (3rd century - 2nd century BC). The small village in the bay was well suited for the establishment of fortifications (“Tarchon” translated from Phoenician as “fortress”).

The population of the provincial city is about 140 thousand. Tarragona has one of the largest ports in Spain and the beaches of the “golden” coast.

Top 10 most interesting attractions in Tarragona

Tarragona, whose sights reflect several historical eras, is interesting and diverse. The city, located on the shores of the Balearic Sea (Mediterranean), has several interesting must-see attractions.

1. Roman amphitheater.

Tarragona was the imperial residence. To entertain the emperors and their entourage, an amphitheater was erected on the seashore in the second century.

Public events were held in its arena:

• Gladiator fights;
• chariot racing;
• martial arts between people and predators;
• hunting wild animals;
• theatrical performances.

The execution of criminals was often disguised as single combat between people and predatory animals, especially before the adoption of Christianity (the first Christians were publicly executed). After the adoption of a new religion in the 4th century. On the territory of the amphitheater, in memory of the dead Christians, a temple was erected. The Roman amphitheater was discovered by archaeologists in the mid-20th century.

The attraction is recognized as the most famous in the country.

2. Fortress wall.

Creating fortifications in the bay in the 2nd century. BC e., the Romans erected a protective wall around their settlement, 4.5 m thick, 6 m high and 3500 m long. A fragment of the wall, about 1.1 km long, has survived to this day.

The ancient wall belongs to the ancient Roman structures preserved in the territory of the former Roman Empire. During the Middle Ages, the wall was further strengthened on the sea side. To protect themselves from “pirate raids,” the residents of Tarragona increased the height of the coastal wall to 13 m.

3. Cathedral.

The Cathedral of St. Thekla was built in the 13th century. Construction lasted about 150 years. The building combines Romanesque and early Gothic styles. The “fortified” part of the building adds to the uniqueness of the structure. When construction began, the cathedral was built as a fortress, with towers and windows - loopholes.

The cathedral is located at the highest point, in the center of the old city. A wide stone staircase leads to the central entrance. City events and reconstructions of historical events are held on the cathedral square.

4. National Archaeological Museum.

Created in the mid-19th century. The museum is located in the center of the old town. The exhibits, presented in five halls on three floors, reflect the history, culture and life of the Roman Empire.

In separate rooms are collected finds of archaeologists during excavations in the city and its environs, dedicated to:

• Romanesque architecture (sculptural portraits of Roman emperors);
• navigation;
• works of art (ceramics, parts of ancient mosaics).
• household items;
• religion;
• crafts;
• agriculture.

Visitors are invited to watch a film about the history of Tarragona. In addition to the halls with exhibits, the museum complex includes the Paleo-Christian Museum, the necropolis, the Roman villas of Sentseyes and Els Munts and a library.

Temporary exhibitions are organized in the museum's halls throughout the year.

5. Monument to Castelleros.

“Living” pyramids are popular in Catalonia. “Castells” (“castell” castle) is a national Catalan game of creating castles - pyramids during festivals. Teams of castellers compete to build the largest and most complex castles. On the main street, Rambla Nova, there is a bronze sculpture of such a pyramid, depicting a tower with a dome.

It consists of 219 human figures perched on top of each other, made to the original size. The 11 m high landmark appeared in 1999 and is popular among guests and residents of the city.

6. Roman aqueduct “Devil's Bridge”.

"Devil's Bridge" is located 5 km from Tarragona in the park. The Romans built two aqueducts over the ravine (1st century BC) to supply the city with water. Only one bridge has survived to this day, its height is 27 m and its length is 217 m.

A legend is associated with the strength and durability of the aqueduct, according to which the devil contributed to the construction of the bridge in exchange for the soul of the city resident who would be the first to drink the water. The first resident to drink water was a donkey. Today you can walk along the narrow chute, along which the water accumulated in the ravine used to flow.

7. Rambla Nova street.

The central street of the city, 700 m long, is a “pedestrian zone”. It appeared in 1855. The street runs from the bus station to the observation deck on the sea coast. On the boulevard, planted with acacias, there are many architectural monuments, banks, pharmacies, shops, restaurants and cafes.

8. House-Museum of Kastelarnau.

An ancient palace built in the 15th century. was bought by the aristocrat Carlos de Castellarnau in the 60s of the 18th century. After his reconstruction, the palace received a new look in the Baroque style. The palace complex is a unique landmark of the city.

The interior patio of the palace has preserved Gothic and Renaissance elements. It is also notable for stained glass windows in the courtyards, antique furniture, household items, a library, and a wine cellar. According to legend, the ghost of Castellarnau’s crazy daughter lives in the palace, who wanders the halls at night, playing the piano.

9. El Medol Quarry.

The quarry is located in the Medol pit. Stone mining was carried out during the time of Emperor Augustus. In the center of the quarry there is a “Medol” column with a height of more than 16 m. It was the initial mark of the extraction of the “golden stone”. Stone was used in the construction of all buildings and structures in Tarragona. Today the old quarry is a monument.

10. Mediterranean Balcony.

The main street of the city, Rambla Nova, ends with a cliff near the sea (the height of the cliff is 23 m). It has an observation deck. A monument to Admiral Rouge de Luria (1889) was erected on the site. The balcony offers views of the sea, coastline and the Roman Amphitheatre.

The site is equipped with cast iron fencing. According to tourist legends, it is necessary to hold on to the fence in order for good luck to accompany you in all matters. On the site there is a cozy cafe and benches for vacationers.

Architectural sites and monuments of Tarragona

Tarragona, whose attractions differ in the period of their appearance, offers interesting objects for inspection that are not included in the list of the most popular.

Monument to Luis Companys

In 1934, there was an uprising in the city against the existing system and government. Louis Companys took an active part in the events of 1934 from the Republicans. The monument erected to the 123rd president is located on the Rambla of President Luis Campanis, which runs from the Plaza de la Imperial Tarraco.

St. Paul's Church

The founder and patron of the city, Saint Apostle Paul, is revered by the inhabitants of Tarragona and Catalonia. Construction of the temple began in 1947 and was completed in 1956. A memorial plaque informs about the grand opening of the church.

It is located at the intersection of "carrer de la Popular" and "avinguda (rambla) President Lluís Companys" a block from the city's central square "Plaça de la Imperial Tàrraco".

Villa San Rafael

The villa was built in 1912. After the death of the owner Rafael Puig i Valls and the change of several owners, it became the property of the state. The villa is not open to visitors. To protect against unauthorized entry, some of the villa's windows and doors are boarded up. Rafael Puig's house is located at Avinguda de Roma, Parc de la Ciutat.

Centenary Fountain

The fountain was created in 1954 to mark the centenary of everyone’s favorite street, the “New” Rambla. The sculptures on the fountain represent the four continents. The "new" Rambla appeared at the site of the destroyed old city wall.

Monument to the defenders of the city from the Napoleonic army

In 1811, Napoleon's army passed through Spain. After the conquest of the Tortosa fortress, the siege of Tarragona began. On June 28, 1811, after a bloody battle, Tarragona was conquered by the French. The Spaniards suffered heavy losses - about 5,000 dead, most of whom were civilians. The monument to those killed in the battle is located on the Rambla Nova.

Historical monuments of Tarragona

Tarragona, whose attractions are concentrated in the old part of the city (Part Alta), offers preserved objects of the Roman Empire accessible to visitors for inspection.

Forum

The colony's forum was built in the 1st century. BC e. as the center of political and cultural life of the Romans.
Today, all that remains of the Forum are ruins: part of the street, the remains of Roman columns and an ancient basilica.

Roman circus

The circus arena accommodated about 12 thousand spectators. The complex is one of the well-preserved objects. You can explore the spectator stands and underground corridors.

Portal del Roser Gate

None of those who decide to explore the Forum will be able to pass by the gate. A gate is an arch in the wall, which is entered in order to access the galleries of the Forum.

Tarragona, whose attractions are varied, offers museums to visit.

Modern Art Museum

The museum has been operating since 1976. It is located in three buildings from the 18th century.

The bulk of the collected exhibits are works by contemporary Catalan artists:

• Salvador Martorell;
• Louis Saumels;
• Ramona Carrete;
• Josep Sancho.

In addition to paintings, graphics and sculptures, the works of the winners of artistic competitions - avant-garde artists and photographers - are presented here. Museum address: Carrer de Santa Anna, 8 (St. Anna Street, 8).

Paleocristiana Museum and Necropolis (Paleocristiana Museo y Necrópolis)

In Tarragona in the 20s of the last century, during archaeological excavations, the burial site of the first Christians was discovered. The necropolis was used by city residents from the 3rd century. to 7th century n. e.

The territory of the paleonecropolis was closed to visitors for more than 20 years. Currently it contains more than 2000 burials and is available for viewing. In the museum, next to the necropolis, you can look at ancient sarcophagi, amphorae, vessels and monuments discovered during excavations. The museum is located at Avenida Ramón y Cajal, 84.

Temples and Cathedrals of Tarragona

Religious sites of Tarragona form a separate group of attractions. The Cathedral is included in the list of the most visited sites, located on Pla de la Seu. Church of St. Paul's is hidden in the streets away from the historical center (carrer de la Popular).

St. Peter's Church

The main church of the city opened in the 16th century. It hosted the christening of the architect Antonio Gaudi, a famous architect of the last century.
The façade is made in the Renaissance style. In its lower part there is a portal, in the center of which there is a statue of St. Petra. The church can be found on St. Square. Petra (Plaça Sant Pere), 1.

Church of St. Francis

It was built in the 18th century. The church is made in a neoclassical style and is located at Rambla Vella, 57. In the modest church, only a gallery remains from the former monastery of St. Francis. As a result of reconstruction carried out in 1911, the facade of the church was decorated with a rose window.

Monastery of the Discalced Carmelites

The monastery is located away from the "New Rambla", on the street "Carrer de l'Assalt". The neo-Gothic four-story building was built in 1886 and is recognized as one of the striking examples of Spanish Art Nouveau.

Parks and gardens of Tarragona

You can take a break from walking and busy excursions in the city parks:

Embankment and port

The seaport is located near the historical part of the city and is divided into independent zones:

• shopping area;
• fisheries;
• civil port.

The port handles more than 2,000 cargo ships each year for the transport of grain, coal, timber and petrochemical products. Tarragona's seafront features a long viewing platform known as the famous "Mediterranean Balcony".

Modern objects interesting to visit

Despite the ancient history of the city, it has modern objects that are interesting to visit.

1. “Wind” metal tower.

“Tower of the Winds” appeared in 2006. The art structure was designed by sculptor Antoni Mas Castelltort. The metal tower, 30 m high, is designed in the form of a “perforated” prism, supported by a parabolic arch. Backlighting simulates dynamic visual images. The attraction is located on Catalan Square.

2. Gaudi - center.

The cultural center opened in 2007. The center houses an exhibition gallery of the works of the architect Gaudi. All buildings and structures he designed can be viewed using interactive technologies. You can get acquainted with the life and work of the master by watching a film in 3D.

Excursion routes

Popular individual and group excursions around the “old” city in Russian.

Applications for excursions are submitted to the administration of any hotel. Groups of people who want to take a guided walk around the city also form on the square near the Cathedral.

Top 5 places suitable for holidays with children

Tarragona is a city for family holidays. It has all the conditions for cultural, educational and entertainment recreation, including for children.

1. Exposition of the National Historical Museum.

The excursion will be useful for school-age children. Children under 8 years old have free admission. Their attention will be attracted by antique toys: a rattle made of bronze or a doll with ivory joints. The museum will tell you about ancient games similar to “hide and seek” or “tic-tac-toe”.

2. PortAventura World amusement park.

The park is divided into thematic zones: India, China, Bali, Wild West, Mesoamerica. The park has a lot of greenery, swimming pools, a souvenir shop, and a cafe. Park location: Vita-seca, Salou.

3. Jungle Trek amusement park.

The rope park offers 6 routes for children of different ages. On each route, the child is accompanied by an experienced instructor. The park is located at: Av. Blauet, 49.

4. Beach holiday on the “golden” sand.

The length of Tarragona beach is 15 km. Clean, calm water with a gently sloping bottom suitable for families with children.

5. Aqualeon water park.

Water park and safari - the park is located 40 km from Tarragona. In addition to water attractions, you can watch a show with exotic animals, dine in a restaurant and organize a photo shoot. You can order a bus to the water park from the hotel.

Self-guided walking route

For those who like to take a leisurely walk, we can offer several independent walking routes.

1. Walk along Rambla Nova.

From the city bus station the street will lead to the old part of the city, where you can explore all the ancient sights of the city. "Rambla Nova" opens onto the circular square "Imperial Tarraco", from which wide avenues diverge in a radial pattern.

2. “Archaeological” route.

There is a walking route along the old fortress wall past famous towers:

The route passes by the statue of Emperor Augustus. You can create a route yourself, armed with a city guide.

1. On April 23, residents of Tarragona and all of Catalonia celebrate St. George's Day. On this day, people give each other roses or books.
2. Residents of Tarragona speak not only Spanish, but also Catalan (the language of the ancient Romans).
3. In Tarragona, the most expensive real estate on the Costa Dorada.
4. Traditional Tarragona dishes are prepared from fish. Restaurants and cafes use only “live” catch to prepare dishes.

Tarragona is a sunny, hospitable city whose sights will appeal to every guest who comes here for at least a day.

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Video about Tarragona

Everything you need to know about the city of Tarragona:

If you're holidaying on the Spanish coast of Casta Darado, don't miss the chance to see the charming ancient city of Tarragona.

Tarragona is famous for its historical past, because the city was founded in the 1st century AD. Many people know that Tarragona was the capital of the Roman province in Spain for a long time, but even before this event a lot of interesting things happened.

Even before our era, the territory of rocky Tarragona was conquered by the Iberians and Carthaginians, because everyone was attracted by the convenient location of the land, on a rocky hill above the sea.

Tarakon became the first land conquered by the Romans in Spain when Scipio went against Hannibal. The choice was very successful, because the land is located on a hill with a convenient view of the sea. Initially, the Romans fortified an area of ​​conquered land with a fortress in order to continue their conquest of the peninsula. As they developed Spanish territories, the Romans rebuilt the city of Tarragona to further strengthen their dominance, and thus the capital of the Roman province of Iberia appeared. Meanwhile, Tarragona was an imperial resort until it became the capital under Augustus. Tarragona became a secular and fashionable Roman city, with up to 250 thousand inhabitants.

For lovers of Roman ruins, the city is interesting for its fairly well-preserved amphitheater, circus, aqueduct, powerful Roman walls, and the remains of Roman forums. But what gives the city its special charm is the eclectic combination of classical Roman forms with colorful Catalan buildings and streets built after the 15th century.

Tarragona is divided into 2 parts:

The upper city or, in other words, the ancient city located on the upper tier, surrounded by a wall.

The lower town is characterized by a modern way of life and the Catalan style of architecture.

Most likely, you will get to Tarragona by bus, so it is more convenient to get to the final stop - the bus station. Exit the bus station and go right about 200 meters to a square with a fountain and a large inscription Tarragona.

We cross several traffic lights and find ourselves on the central street Rambla Nova with cafes, shops and restaurants.

Rambla Nova is a provincial competitor to the famous street in Barcelona, ​​only its size is several times smaller. In general, most cities in Catalonia have their own Ramblas, because that’s what the main streets of the city were called, on the site of a dried up river.

Pay attention to the unusual monument. We puzzled over what it was for a long time, until a guide on one of their excursions told us that this is the favorite pastime of the Catalans. People are divided into teams and build towers of people, and the living tower is always closed by a child who raises his hand as a sign of readiness.

If you get to Tarragona at lunchtime, you can sit on a bench on the Rambla and watch the Catalans walking, sleeping, and reading. Why at lunchtime? Because in the evening you will hardly be able to find a free seat.

The street ends at the embankment, the so-called Mediterranean balcony. Unfortunately, Tarragona is now a major port, so the view is a little spoiled by the hardware. Although, can one doubt the beauty of the Mediterranean Sea?

We move left along the sea and see the ancient Roman forum. By the way, here is the beginning of the second Rambla of Tarragona - Rambla Velha, which opens the curtain on the Roman past.

The ancient Romans used the amphitheater not only to watch theatrical performances, but also for other important events in the city. For example, it was here that the first two Christians were publicly burned so that the rest of the population would be discouraged from accepting religion. Subsequently, the Catholic Church canonized these unfortunate people as saints.

In our opinion, the most beautiful view of the amphitheater opens from the “Mediterranean balcony”. This amphitheater is part of the State Archaeological Museum, to which we headed. Moving up and to the right from the theater, we see a breathtaking landscape.

In the foreground we see the building of the Archeology Museum, and behind it a majestic ancient defensive wall. This wall was built not only by the Roman conquerors, but also by the British, after the capture of Tarragona. Perhaps that is why the fortification has survived to this day.

Don’t be lazy, go to the wall behind the archaeological museum. Here you can see a unique picture of Catalan houses built literally on the wall. It vaguely reminded me of pictures of medieval Paris, when houses stood on bridges. It is known that the museum is currently buying houses from private individuals, destroying them and conducting excavations at the site.

We went deep into the old city in search of the Tarragona Cathedral.

The streets of Tarragona's old town have a certain charm and are different from the typical European towns built by the Romans. Probably, it’s all about the Catalan temperament, which helped to dilute the classic Roman clear lines and add color to the homes.

You can use the fortress wall as a landmark around the city, because all the streets still end up against it.

The main attraction of the old city is reached by Major Street, which crosses the entire city and leads to Fon Square.

Of course, this is the Cathedral of the 12th-14th centuries, to which a wide staircase leads.

The architecture of the cathedral combines two styles: Romanesque and Gothic. Note the purely Gothic portal on the front facade, which is framed by Romanesque sculptures with a cross and a rose window. According to Spanish tradition, the scale of the cathedral amazes tourists who consider Notre Dame Cathedral to be large. Here, indeed, the cathedral is large and majestic.

Currently (summer 2012) reconstruction work is being carried out at the Cathedral, which does not interfere with visiting it. Inside, the Cathedral has lost almost all the ancient paintings on the walls.

The only place where they can be seen is in the part of the side chapel with altars.

There is a museum next to the cathedral, which we did not go to.

The old town of Tarragona is a gift for inquisitive tourists, because every house gives a storm of impressions, and you can click the camera shutter endlessly.

And of course, what would a city in sunny Spain be without an orange alley? Juicy, ripe, but high-weighing oranges did not survive the hands of a resourceful tourist, as evidenced by the peels thrown under the trees. As they say, every family has its black sheep.

If you are interested in Roman ruins, then go to the necropolis, where the Museum of the Ancient Roman Necropolis operates. The museum exhibits sarcophagi, mosaics, and photographs of ancient Tarragona. Two forums have been preserved nearby: a ritual one and a local one, where local residents liked to meet.

Half a day will be enough to visit Tarragona if you are not going to spend hours looking at the exhibitions of the city’s museums. Personally, we preferred the beach to the museums in the first half of the day, and in the afternoon we went to Tarragona.

From Salou and Lapineda you can get to Tarragona by bus number 4, and back take the same bus or number 5 (only for Salou!).

Our expensive (in the truest sense of the word) tour operators offer an organized excursion to Tarragona and Reus for the whole day for 30 euros. We strongly do not recommend taking a tour, because Reus and Tarragona are literally 20 minutes away from Salou and Lapinedo by bus, costing about 3 euros. Believe me, running around in a crowd, constantly looking at your watch, is a dubious pleasure.

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Sights of Tarragona. The most important and interesting sights of Tarragona - photos and videos, descriptions and reviews, location, websites.

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Cathedral of Tarragona

Tarragona, Placa Pla de la Seu

The beautiful Cathedral of Tarragona stands on a hill, on the site of the historical center of the ancient acropolis. Construction began in 1171, but the consecration of the temple took place only in 1331. The cathedral stands on the remains of an earlier Roman building, which began to be erected at the very beginning of the century. e.

• The sights of ancient Tarragona cannot be called amazing or especially numerous. This city is distinguished more by its general atmosphere than by specific tourist sites. However, some places in Tarragona and the surrounding area simply must be explored.

  In general, the cultural and historical heritage of Tarragona can be divided into three groups: ancient (Roman), Gothic and modern. The ancient Roman ruins include several ruins, such as the Tower of Scipios, about 6 km from the city along the coastal road, the Roman walls and citadel, the necropolis, the Palace of Augustus (also called the Palace of Pilate), the Arch of Sura (or Bara), and the Golden Way.

  It is worth examining a model of the Roman Tarraco - the city as it was in the 2nd century. The model is made on a scale of 1:500. Also noteworthy is the Roman amphitheater, on the basis of which a Visigothic basilica was subsequently built, and then a church in the Romanesque style. Today you can see the theater from above, go down and wander around it, and also look into the small museum attached to it. And on the square of the Provincial Forum (1st century) there is an old Romanesque tower, which was built in the 14th century. converted into a royal residence. The Roman circus is also located here, where horse races and chariot competitions were held.

  There is also something to see in the vicinity of Tarragona. First of all, there is the famous Roman Ferreres Aqueduct; it is located not so far from the city.

  The Christian religion also could not help but affect the architectural appearance of the city. First of all, the Tarragona Cathedral, built in the 12-14th centuries, attracts attention. at the highest point of the city. The cathedral is distinguished by a facade with a huge rose window, made in the Gothic style, and this view is considered a kind of calling card of Tarragona. Among other religious buildings of interest are the monastery of the Poor Clares near the city walls, the monastery of St. Teresa, the Capuchin parish church in the port, the former monastery of St. Francis and the Jesuit college, which was turned into barracks, but then the college church was returned to its former meaning, as well as the monastery Dominicans (now the City Hall) and restored in the 19th century. the archbishop's palace, which stands on the site of the ancient capitol.

  Walking around the city, you cannot ignore several interesting places and neighborhoods. These are, firstly, several ancient squares: Plaza de la Font, Plaza del Forum, Plaza del Rey. Secondly, a modern Mediterranean balcony, which provides a wonderful view point behind the Tarragona beach. Thirdly, the historic fishermen's quarter of El Seraglio, where the central fish market is located. The peak of trading activity is observed at the market in the evening, when fishermen sell what they caught during the day. In addition, there are plenty of nice seafood restaurants here. The Central Market on Rambla Nova deserves no less attention than the fish market; it occupies a remarkable Art Nouveau building, built in 1915. Finally, the Rambla Nova itself, the central boulevard in Tarragona, dates back a century and a half - but at the same time the most modern shops are concentrated on it.

  Neighborhood

  There is also something to see in the vicinity of Tarragona. First of all, there is the famous Roman Ferreres Aqueduct; it is located not so far from the city. The two-level bridge spans over 200m and is remarkably well preserved for a structure that was created without the use of mortar. The bridge is worth a visit in itself, and besides, it is located in a beautiful natural park.

  • Where to stay: In numerous hotels for every taste of the most beloved city of Spain by tourists - the beautiful Barcelona, ​​simply chock-full of all kinds of attractions. IN

List attractions is formed on the basis visitor reviews and sorted by rating, which is also formed based on visitor reviews. Thus, at the top of the list are the most interesting sights.

The small Catalan city of Tarragona has a population of just over 140 thousand people. By the standards of many travelers, this is a small city that boasts an incredible number of different historical and cultural attractions. It is considered one of the oldest in Spain, and according to historians. Its favorable location and proximity to the sea made it a major port, no smaller in size than the port of Cadiz. For a long time, Tarragona was the center of the kingdom of the same name, until it became part of modern Spain. It is famous for its impressive list of attractions, many of which are protected by UNESCO. In this article I will tell you what you can see on your own and where you should definitely go.

Cathedral of Tarragona

Previously, on the site of the shrine there was a temple of Jupiter, which was destroyed with the arrival of Christianity in Catalonia. Since it was believed that this place was surrounded by mysticism and secrets, it was decided to build a Catholic cathedral on the site of the basilica. It is decorated with unique decorative elements, stucco moldings and traditional Gothic gargoyles. In addition, here you can see an altar from the 15th century.

National Archaeological Museum

A unique museum composition entirely dedicated to objects found in Tarragona and its surroundings. Tourists will find many thematic exhibitions and compositions here, in particular, ancient coins, ceramics and household items, ancient weapons and sculptural compositions.

The museum first opened to visitors in the middle of the 19th century, which did not prevent it from gaining fame as the oldest museum in Catalonia.

Roman amphitheater

One of the most mysterious and spectacular places in Tarragona. The ancient amphitheater, built in the 2nd century, is located directly on the coast. The arena's capacity was up to 1 thousand people, and local residents came here for a long time to watch gladiator fights and theatrical performances.

After Christianity came to Tarragona, the amphitheater was abandoned and eventually destroyed. In its place a temple was erected, which has not survived to this day. During city improvement work in the mid-20th century, utility workers discovered the remains of an amphitheater. After a lengthy reconstruction and restoration, it reopened to numerous tourists.

Open air museum "Passeig Arqueolgic Muralles"

One of the most popular tourist destinations in Tarragona. It is a composition of ancient Roman buildings and structures surrounded by fortress walls. In addition to its historical value, Passeig Arqueolgic Muralles is extremely popular as a site with incredible views of the ancient city.

Devil's Bridge

This building still causes involuntary awe among tourists. It was built in the 1st century using unique methods without the use of cement or other solutions. Despite this, the building has been perfectly preserved, and is still one of the most popular places in Tarragona.

The bridge got its name thanks to the hoaxes of local residents, who stubbornly believe that Lucifer himself had a hand in the construction of this bridge.

Museum-necropolis

More than 2 thousand burials await tourists here. In addition to them, visitors will find an incredible collection of various funerary objects and sarcophagi, marble products and carved decorative crypts.

Local residents are sure that when entering the museum it is necessary to cross themselves, since there are a huge number of ghosts who strongly dislike unchurched visitors.

Colonial Forum of Tarraco

A historical monument of incredible energy and beauty, which is located near the pedestrian street Rambla Nova. It is a complex of ancient Roman buildings that once formed the center of Tarragona. Particularly popular are the beautifully preserved Roman baths and curia.

Ancient circus

One of the oldest buildings in Tarragona, which was built in the 1st century. Initially it was intended for horse racing and various entertainment events. This is one of the few buildings from ancient times that was not destroyed with the advent of Christianity. The new faith did not object to the entertainment that took place here, so the circus functioned until the 6th century.

Over time, the circus fell into disrepair and was noticeably damaged. Only individual fragments of stairs, walls and stands have survived to this day.

El Serallo area

The most interesting area of ​​Tarragona. Once upon a time there was a small fishing village, which over time transformed into a huge port. Now El Serallo is a popular tourist destination with an incredibly beautiful embankment, a huge number of modern yachts and boats.

The development here is typical of small Catalan villages, which gives the area a special atmosphere. In the evenings, the embankment is filled with tourists who come here for new experiences and local culinary delights in small family restaurants.

Museum of Local Lore

A unique residential building, the appearance of which successfully combines elements of Baroque, Renaissance and Gothic. After the mansion was purchased by aristocrat Carlos de Castellarnau, it was furnished with incredible pieces and furniture.

Visitors here will find frescoes and mosaic compositions, a collection of Chinese porcelain, decorative furniture and antique objects collected by the aristocrat during numerous trips. For lovers of mysticism there will be something to interest here. The legend says. That the ghost of the mad daughter of Carlos de Castellarnau can still be found in the mansion building.

Playa del Milagro beach

This beach area is the real highlight of Tarragona. Somewhat similar to Lloret de Mar on the coast. The wide sandy beach, stretching for 1 km, is located close to the historical center of the city and the UNESCO protected area. It's also incredibly easy and quick to get to the amphitheater from here.

Monument to the castellers

This unique monument is dedicated to the ancient traditions of Catalonia. During mass celebrations, residents build living pyramids, which is a reference to the ancient Muisharanga dance. Of course, nowadays such fun is a thing of the distant past, but the memory of the traditions and culture of the Catalans is alive in the monument “El Monument als castellers”.

It represents a group of people who stand on each other's shoulders. At the top of the pyramid is a small statue of a small child waving to the spectators.

Cos de Bou street

The street is located in the central part of the city and adjoins the famous Fish Market. It has gained popularity among tourists due to its unusual medieval atmosphere, wide pedestrian sidewalks paved with paving stones.

Previously, the street was used as an observation deck behind the bullfight. The lives of two musicians are closely connected with El Carrer del Cs del Bou street - José Maria Pla y Mateu and José Senti y Porta.

Tower of the Scipios

One of the oldest monuments in Tarragona. It is a funerary tower erected in the area of ​​an ancient Roman road. It is of particular value, as it is considered a unique architectural solution.

Church of St. John the Baptist

The church became famous as a refuge for the Capuchins and is one of the oldest Christian shrines in Catalonia. Bells ring here every day and have an interesting melodic sound.

Tourists will be interested in the collections of ancient icons, the church altar and incredible frescoes inside the building.

Rambla Nova

The most picturesque part of the city. Rambla Nova has wide pedestrian paths along which there are a huge number of cafes and restaurants, souvenir shops and libraries. In addition, street musicians, live sculptures and extraordinary theatrical performances await tourists at every turn.

The peculiarity of the street is considered to be unusual monuments in the Art Nouveau style, as well as a huge number of ancient buildings, which in the ensemble create a unique atmosphere of Catalan identity.

Roman aqueduct "Devil's Bridge"

A unique structure preserved from the times of Ancient Rome. Previously used as a way to deliver water to the city. The aqueduct received its name due to two factors. First, it is located above a deep gorge. The second was based on a legend that during the construction of a complex structure, the devil provided invaluable assistance, in return taking the soul of the first person to pass through the aqueduct.

Early Christian necropolis

Once on the site of the ancient tomb there was a Christian basilica dedicated to the martyrs who died in the Roman arenas. Over time, a cemetery began to grow around it, consisting, according to preliminary estimates, of 2 thousand burials.

The landmark was accidentally discovered only at the beginning of the 20th century, when it was planned to build a tobacco production facility on the site of the necropolis. When the builders discovered a unique find, plans to build a factory were abandoned, and instead Tarragona acquired another landmark, testifying to the ancient history of the city.

El Medol Quarry

Tarragona is surrounded by a huge number of quarries, in which building materials were mined for the construction of the city. However, the most famous was the El Medol quarry, which is considered the first place from which building stone was mined.

At the moment, the quarry is extremely attractive for tourists, and despite the fact that El Medol is located at a distance from the city (about 5 km), you can always meet a lot of tourist groups here. The main attraction of the quarry is considered to be an obelisk column made of stone, covered with spreading greenery.

Arena Taracco Plaza

It was built in 1888 in the Art Nouveau style to host bullfights and related events. In 2006, the arena was closed for a long restoration, which lasted 4 years.

In 2010, a ban on bullfighting was introduced in Catalonia, so the updated haven now hosts various sports competitions, music and theater concerts, symposiums and much more.

What to see in Tarragona in one day

One day will not be enough to get to know the sights of the Catalan city better. If a tourist is interested in the culture of Ancient Rome, all conditions have been created for him to see most of the sights in one day.

They are concentrated mainly in the central part of the city, and the main tourist streets - El Carrer del Cs del Bou and Rambla Nova - lead to them. A short walk through these places will lead the traveler to an ancient amphitheater, a necropolis and a local history museum.

Every street in Tarragona is beautiful in its own way

A must-see is the incredible aqueduct, which was built without cement. It is located near the center, so there will be no problems with inspection.

If a tourist has a few days left, we recommend that he travel outside of Tarragona. On the outskirts of the ancient settlement you can find incredible and fascinating monuments, traces of Roman civilization and more modern sights of the Middle Ages.

What attractions to visit on your own

Tarragona is considered one of the most developed settlements in Catalonia in terms of tourism. Here visitors are provided with various excursion tours. The most popular are thematic tours related to ancient history - “City of Knights and Gladiators”, “Ancient and Medieval Tarragona” and much more.

In Tarragona you can often find various festivals and flash mobs

For those who like to walk independently, the city center is perfect; you can use a simple map. Here, at every step you can come across a historical landmark. Many areas of the city have their own atmosphere, which makes the trip even more unforgettable.

Beautiful places for photo sessions

Tarragona is located in a hilly area, so lovers of artistic photography have a large selection of interesting locations in the surrounding area. One of the most popular is the site in the Passeig Arqueolgic Muralles area. From here you have an incredible view of the ancient part.

Tamarit Beach is surrounded by pine thickets, and here you can not only relax, but also admire the majestic castle complex of the same name.

Beautiful photos are taken against the backdrop of the sea and ancient sights

Also of interest will be the Mediterranean Balcony observation deck. It is located at an altitude of 24 meters, and from here the coastal part of the city is clearly visible. There is a legend associated with this place that every person who touches the bars of the cast-iron fence and makes a wish will definitely encounter a miracle.

Sights of Tarragona

Tarragona is the capital of the province of the same name, part of the autonomous region of Catalonia. The city, located 100 km south of Barcelona and stretching along the Costa Dorada for 14 km, is the oldest on the Iberian Peninsula. Its history goes back more than two thousand years. The architectural complex of Tarragona from the time of Roman rule is the largest in Spain and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Russians vacationing at the resorts of the “Golden Coast” rarely miss the opportunity to go on an excursion to the former capital of Roman Spain. Fortunately, the distances are small - from Cambrils, La Pineda, Salou, respectively, 17, 13 and 10 km, and trains and buses run frequently. Many tourists come even from Alicante, Barcelona, ​​Valencia, and Madrid.

For our readers, we have prepared a short guide to the main attractions of Tarragona and a story about how to get to the city more conveniently.

Coast of Tarragona.
Photo: flickr.com/felix2510

Queen of past centuries

On the site of modern Tarragona in the 5th century. BC. there was an Iberian settlement called Kess. And in 218 BC. After the victory over the Carthaginians, the Romans reigned here and founded the Tarraco fortress. Just a hundred years later, the outback became the Great Roman Tarragona - the capital of the imperial province of Tarraconian Spain and all Roman possessions on the Iberian Peninsula.

In the 5th century AD The Visigoths came to Tarraco, plundered everything and destroyed almost everything, and after being captured by Arab troops in 714. the city has almost disappeared. It began to revive when it was reconquered by Christians in 1129, and in the Middle Ages it became the capital of the Kingdom of Aragon. But wars, epidemics, pirate raids (their main camp was in Salou), occupation by Napoleonic troops again led to destruction, hunger and poverty.

Now Tarragona has almost 140 thousand inhabitants. It is an important economic and cultural center of the region and an increasingly popular resort.

How to get there

Tarragona is easy to get to from anywhere on the Catalan coast, along which there are a railway and three motorways - the free N-340 and the toll A-2 and A-7.

During the holiday season from 7-8 am to 10:30 pm with an interval of about 30 minutes. From the resorts of the Costa Dorado, regular buses of the company Empresa Plana run on the route Cambrils - Salou-Cap Salou - La Pineda - Tarragona. Travel times from Cambrils, Salou and La Pineda are 50, 40 and 15 minutes. Buses going to Barcelona Airport and along the route Cambrils - Salou - La Pineda - Bonavista - Tarragona - Barcelona are also suitable.

Or you can go by train. The stations are Estacion De Salou and Cambrils and are located in the area of ​​the embankments(there is no railway in La Pineda). Trains run every 30 minutes. up to 2 hours, travel time 12 minutes. and 18 min., ticket price depending on the train category is 2.85-12 euros (details on the website venta.renfe.com).

Tarragona can be reached by bus, train or train.
Photo: flickr.com/eldelinux

We went to the beach in the morning and left in the afternoon. We calmly looked at everything, visited museums, went shopping. We learned about the Pobles Monastery from reviews, went and didn’t regret it.”

To travel by public transport, it is profitable to buy a T-10 pass for 10 trips and use it with the whole family. Tarjeta Bono Bus costs 12 euros and is valid on buses and trains in the first zone - this includes Salou, La Pineda, Cambrils and Tarragona. One trip will cost 1.2 euros, and the driver will have to pay 2 euros for a ticket.

You can get to Tarragona by sea and at the same time look at the picturesque bays and beaches. On Tuesdays, a boat departs from Cambrils at 09:30, stops in Salou at 10:00 and arrives in the port of Tarragona at 11:10. On the return trip the boat departs at 17:00 and arrives in Salou at 17:45, in Cambrils at 18:15.

Intercity bus to Tarragona.

How to navigate

Graffiti on the wall of the Tarragona bus station.
Photo: flickr.com/europealacarte

Rambla Vella (Old Rambla) - a boulevard with a wide pedestrian area - divides the city in two. In the northern part there are historical quarters, in the southern part there are new quarters with Rambla Nova. It runs parallel to the Old Rambla from the bus station to the sea - in fact, to the Mediterranean Balcony (more about it below).

The tradition of Castellers (building towers with people) was born in Tarragona. Monument of people to the castellers on Rambla Nova. The monument is made up of 219 sculptures. Its height is 11 meters.
Photo: flickr.com/kristianvinkenes

Monuments of three eras

There are so many historical sites on the map of Tarragona that the local tourism office has developed 3 walking routes by era - the Roman period, the Middle Ages and modernism.

The main attractions are located very compactly in the northern part - in the Old Town. The remains of ancient Roman buildings are adjacent to medieval buildings, examples of Catalan Baroque and Art Nouveau.
We will tell you about what is worth seeing in Tarragona, and in what order - decide for yourself.

Antique Tarraco

For six centuries the city was part of the Roman Empire and flourished - the population grew to 40 thousand, powerful defensive walls, the emperor's residence, and other monumental structures were erected, and a road to Rome was built.

Roman Forum and Amphitheater

Amfiteatre roma is an archaeological pearl of the entire coast. An oval-shaped structure measuring 109.5 * 86.5 m, built around the 2nd century. AD on the seashore, accidentally found during archaeological excavations in 1952. Gladiator fights, celebrations, and theatrical performances took place here.

Part of the stands and fragments of a 140-meter rock inscription in the southern sector have been preserved. Entrance - 3 euros. From the amphitheater you can take an elevator to a beautiful and well-kept park - Parc de I’Amfiteatre roma.

Roman circus

Most of the circus is hidden under the buildings of the 19th century; the main portal, eastern stands, the attached Monks' Tower and the underground part have been preserved.

Area of ​​the local Roman Forum

The center of social life in Tarraco was the Forum Provincial (1st century). It was located on 18 hectares and consisted of two large squares, which were framed by administrative, religious and cultural buildings - curia, temples, shops of merchants and money changers. Part of the ancient Roman basilica and the remains of several houses have survived to this day.

The complex is open daily from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., on Sundays until 3 p.m., ticket price is 3.15 euros.

Passeig Arqueologic - Archaeological promenade

Between the two rings of fortifications there is a walking alley 4.5 m wide and about 600 m long. There you can see gates, ancient Roman watchtowers, fortifications and 18th-century guns. and it's nice to stroll among the palms and cypresses.

The promenade is open from 9 am to 9 pm, from October 1 to April 1 - until 7 pm, closed on Monday. Entrance ticket - 3 euros, for children under 16 years of age admission is free.

Walk along Passeig Arqueologic past ancient tools.
Photo: flickr.com/calafellvalo

Necropolis of the first Christians

West of the Roman Forum, near the Francoli River, there is a Christian necropolis (III-V centuries), nearby is the Museum of Early Christianity.

The museum's opening hours in spring and summer are from 10:00 to 20:00, in autumn and winter - until 17:00, break -13:30-15:00, closed on Mondays.

Middle Ages

The old quarters of Tarragona are very picturesque and have preserved a special medieval atmosphere and the spirit of old Spain.

Cathedral

The highest part of the city is the top of the hill. First there was the ancient Roman Temple of Jupiter, later - the oldest Christian church in Spain (382), an Arab mosque, and, finally, Tarragona Cathedral. The Catedral de Santa María de Tarragona was built from 1171 to 1331. and became the main one in Catalonia,- here, and not in Barcelona, ​​was the residence of the bishop.

When there is a service, you can go inside through the main portal from Cathedral Square. At other times - through the side portal on the street de les Escrivanis Velles.

The ticket office is located right behind the portal; when purchasing a ticket (adult - 5 euros, for children 7-16 years old - 3 euros, and kids are free, audio guide - 2 euros), tourists are given a plan and description of the cathedral.

With this ticket you can go to diocesan museum. It contains over 6 thousand exhibits, of which about three hundred are on display, but what kind! Gothic altars, church sculpture, paintings, liturgical utensils and vestments, religious jewelry from the Renaissance and Baroque era, manuscripts and books of chorales, a large collection of Brussels tapestries of the 15th-17th centuries.

Pilate's Castle

On Roman foundations, the Praetoria Palace was erected in the medieval era for the Roman governor who ruled the province of Tarraco. It is called Pilate's palace. Until the 16th century, this was the residence of the Aragonese kings, and then a prison. Now there is an observation deck on the tower, from where you can take the best photos of the panorama of the city and the coast.

The Palace of Pilate (Roman Praetorium) is located on the Royal Square. Built around 70 BC during the reign of Augustus Caesar.
Photo: flickr.com/mrosa-ferre

Cathedral Square

Near the cathedral - one of the most interesting buildings in the Roman-Gothic style is the hospital of St. Tecla (1171), now there is the Tarragona District Council.

The mansion of Casa Balcells until the end of the 16th century. served as the residence of the canon-steward of the Cathedral, and later royalty stayed here.

Nearby is a Gothic rector (XII-XV centuries). The main decorations of the building are a portal with a pointed arch and a four-part window.

Under the 14th-century Gothic pointed arches that unite several houses, Carrer Merceria was once a market for vegetables, and today a Sunday antique market.

Volta del Pallol - The Pallol Vaults in the square of the same name are the remains of the buildings of the provincial forum. In the Middle Ages there was a church here, from 1462 there was a Dominican monastery, and later the main granary - pallol. Now the building houses an exhibition hall in which a model of ancient Tarraco is shown for free.

Volta del Pallol is an exhibition hall within the ancient walls of a former monastery.
Photo: flickr.com/angela_llop

Palace of Casa Castellarnau

The Casa Castellarnau mansion was built in the 14th-15th centuries, and the exquisite interior interiors were created in the 18th-19th centuries. The building is notable for its mixture of Gothic and Renaissance styles.

Now the Kastelarnau mansion is a museum. On the top floor are the chambers of the aristocratic families of Catalonia - a library, a salon, a ballroom with famous ceiling paintings on mythological themes. Open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., on Fridays and Saturdays until 9 p.m., closed on Mondays. Ticket price - 3 euros.

The lower floor is at the disposal of the Museum of the History of Tarragona(open for visits from 10 to 21 o'clock, on Sundays - until 15 o'clock, Monday - closed).

Along the route of modernism

The architecture of the era of the Industrial Revolution is presented very vividly in Tarragona - the buildings erected here at the turn of the 19th-20th centuries are often mentioned in textbooks on architecture.

Balco del Mediterrani

The most picturesque place is an observation deck on a coastal hill 23 m high. The townspeople call it the “Mediterranean Balcony” and come here to stroll and “touch the iron” of the beautiful wrought iron fence (tocar ferro) - they say it brings good luck. From here you have a wonderful view: all the surroundings are in full view.

View of Tarragona from the Balcó del Mediterrani.
Photo: flickr.com/joaquimfp

Modern in Catalan

Fans of Art Nouveau aesthetics will find many noteworthy objects to explore:

• Casa de la Punxa (1911-1929) - a building decorated with a cylindrical tower, an openwork stone balustrade, and images of fantastic creatures. Now the city Chamber of Commerce is located there.
• In the courtyard-patio of the City Hall - it is on Plaça de la Font - there is a monument to King Jaime I. The unusual monument is made in the form of a ship sailing on the waves.
• The unusual façade of the house on Plaça dels Sedassos is painted as an imitation of a typical 19th-century Catalan house, and traditional characters from local festivals are painted on the balconies. Due to optical illusion, the image appears three-dimensional.

Painted facade of a house on Placa dels Sedassos.
Photo: flickr.com/empordakoaharia

• The monastic complex of the Discalced Carmelites with a sharp spire, an openwork octagonal “lantern”, an elegantly decorated neo-Gothic spire and a unique church in the Catalan Art Nouveau style.
• Next to the monastery is the impressive building of the Teresian School (1922), designed by the architect Bernardi Martorell, a student of Gaudí.
• The three-story bullring (1883-1888) for 9 thousand spectators is reminiscent of the Roman Colosseum, but is designed in the Art Nouveau spirit with elements of neo-Moorish style. Bullfighting is no longer held, but the arena hosts concerts, theatrical performances and sporting events.
• The most beautiful house in the city is Casa Salas on La Rambla Nueva.
• The Casa Canals Palace is one of the most interesting in terms of architecture and interior decoration - rich interiors of the 19th century, ancient paintings, and an observation deck on the terrace.
• Central market Mercado Publico (1915) - in the Lower Town.
• In the city park there is a dilapidated, but very beautiful Villa Sant Raphael, in the art nouveau style - ornaments, bas-reliefs, inlays, ceramics, openwork forged balustrade.

Villa La Quinta Sant Rafael is located in the city park Parc de la Ciutat.

Trenet Turistic

If you are traveling with children who find it difficult to walk for a long time, or have little time to explore, you can take a sightseeing tour of the main attractions of Tarragona on the red tourist train - Trenet Turístic. The train of several open carriages runs along the sea to the port, past the Mediterranean balcony, then rises to the historical center to Pla de la Seu.

The starting and final stop of the train is at Rambla Vella, 200 m from the bus station. There are two options - ride one lap (40 minutes) or ride all day, getting in and out at any of the 10 stops on the route. Ticket for a single trip - 6 euros, children under 12 years old - 3 euros, ticket for the whole day - 7 euros, for children - 4 euros. During the summer season (from June 16 to September 14) the train runs every 20 minutes. from 10:30 to 18:30.

Tatyana Yashina, Barnaul:

Tickets for the tourist train can be purchased at the Rambla Vella ticket office or from the driver.
Photo: flickr.com/elshostaletsdepierola

Helpful information

With a single Entrada conjunta als recintes ticket you can visit all Roman monuments, the palaces of Castellarnau and the Canals. The ticket costs 10.55 euros and is valid until the end of the year, so you don’t have to see everything at once.

There is one more An option to save money is the Tarragona Card for visiting 22 attractions and museums. They are sold in tourist offices, hotels, all museums and online and come for 24, 48 or 72 hours (cost 14, 19 and 24 euros respectively). The cards come with tickets for free travel on public transport in the first zone. But that's not all - discounts of up to 20% are provided in shops and spa centers, on taxi fares, in more than 50 restaurants and bars, on tickets to the Port Aventura, Aqualeon and Aquapolis amusement parks.

Do you want to save money and see all the sights, and also get a discount in restaurants? Then purchase a Tarragona Card for 24, 48 or 72 hours.

Conclusion

So our short tour of Tarragona has ended. But you can continue it on your own - wander through the medieval quarters away from the tourist trails, go to museums, walk along both Ramblas, lined with palm trees and tangerine trees, walk along the beautiful embankment, visit one of the fish restaurants in the seaside area of ​​​​El Serrallo.

El Serraglo embankment.
Photo: flickr.com/soniacoll

So, if you are nearby or just within reach, go to Tarragona and, of course, we are waiting for your feedback!

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Historical Spain - Sights of Tarragona

Tarragona is the second largest city in Catalonia. It is located in the central part of the Costa Dorada and is the largest commercial and industrial center. However, in addition to this, the city is famous for its historical heritage. It is a striking object on the map of attractions in Catalonia.

During the Roman Empire, Tarraco (in its modern version - Tarragona) was the capital of the Roman province, which was called "Tarraconian Spain".

The historical part of the city has been perfectly preserved to this day. Today Tarragona is considered a real pearl of Catalonia. Back in 2000, the city was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Famous ancient monuments in Tarragona

The city's attractions are concentrated within the historical part called Part Alta. The fortress walls of the ancient Tarraco are interesting to visit. There are buildings there that have been preserved from Roman and less distant eras.

On the territory of the Old Town you can see a forum, a theater, a circus, an amphitheater and an arena for gladiator battles. The arena accommodated about 12 thousand spectators. Therefore, she looks very impressive. The Balco del Mediterrani square and the Portal del Roser are also located there.

The cathedral occupies an advantageous position, as it is located at the highest point of the city. It is recommended to consider the Cathedral as part of a single complex. Thus, it is best to get acquainted immediately with:

• Cathedral Square,
• House of Canons,
• Chapel,
• covered gallery,
• Museum of the Cathedral.

The Palace of Congresses, carved into the rock, has an unusual appearance.

The historical part of Tarragona guarantees many unforgettable experiences. There are ancient Roman majestic walls, ruins of the forum, narrow streets, green balconies, etc. It is interesting to walk through the labyrinth of ancient streets, breathing in the atmosphere of past centuries.

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Map of Tarragona with attractions in Russian

The map shows the main attractions of Tarragona:

• Centennial Fountain,
• Cassa de la Punch,
• Monastery of the Discalced Carmelites,
• Plaça de la Imperial Tàrraco,
• Rambla Vella street.

Central part of Tarragona

The city has a large number of original buildings. There is no point in listing everything. Therefore, we will highlight only the main objects that are definitely worth a look.

The central street, New Rambla, departs from the square. It stretches in a wide strip across the entire settlement, from the bus station to the sea.

If you walk along this street, you can see many interesting objects:

However, in addition to this route, the city became famous for its medieval and ancient monuments. That's why there are walking routes in Tarragona: the Medieval Route and the Roman Route.

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• Pilate's Castle or Royal Castle;
• National Archaeological Museum;
• Pension Fund building;
• Former St. Paul and St. Tequila Hospital;
• Monument to the heroes of the war of 1811;
• Church of St. Francis;
• Museum of History.

Each of these objects has its own history and is of interest to tourists.

You can find more information on the topic in the section Attractions in Europe.