A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Besalú: A Charming Medieval Village

In Spain, you'll find Besalú, a charming medieval village in the province of Girona, Catalonia, which is a cultural gem steeped in history. This village not only stands out for its impressive architecture but also for its vibrant historical and cultural legacy that transports visitors straight into the past. With its rich history and medieval charm, Besalú is a popular tourist destination that attracts visitors from around the world.

Architecture and History

The most iconic element of Besalú is its famous Romanesque bridge, the Puente Viejo, which spans the Fluvià River. Built in the 11th century, this fortified bridge with its distinctive towers is the first sight that greets visitors and acts as a gateway to the town's history. Walking across it is like stepping back in time, especially at dawn or dusk when shadows and light bring the ancient stones to life.

The Besalú Bridge is an iconic symbol of the town and one of the finest examples of medieval architecture in Catalonia.

In addition to the bridge, the historic center of Besalú is filled with medieval wonders, including remnants of the medieval walls, the monastery church of San Pedro, and the Jewish baths, one of the few preserved Jewish baths in Spain, highlighting the significance of the Jewish community in Besalú during the Middle Ages.

The Castle of Besalú

The Castle of Besalú is significant not only for its architecture and history but also for its role in the cultural heritage of the town. It is a symbol of Besalú's medieval past and catalyzes interest in the history and archaeology of the region. The castle also provides a dramatic backdrop for various cultural events and festivities held in Besalú, helping to bring the town's history to modern life.

Although what remains of the castle are primarily ruins, the site remains a fascinating place for those interested in medieval history, architecture, and archaeology. Walking through the castle grounds provides a tangible connection to the past and a unique perspective on life in medieval Catalonia, making it a must-visit location for visitors to Besalú.

The Jewish Quarter

Besalú is also renowned for its ancient Jewish Quarter, which dates back to the Middle Ages. This historic neighborhood features narrow, cobblestone streets, stone houses, and a restored synagogue that now serves as a museum. Walking through the Jewish Quarter is like traveling back in time and discovering the life of the Jewish community in the Middle Ages.

The Church of Sant Pere

The Church of Sant Pere is another tourist attraction in Besalú. This Romanesque church, built in the 12th century, is known for its impressive facade and interior decorated with frescoes. It is a must-visit for lovers of architecture and religious art.

Culture

The culture of Besalú is a fascinating blend of Christian and Jewish influences. The town hosts festivals that celebrate its heritage, such as the Medieval Festival, where the streets come alive with markets, medieval camps, and battle reenactments that evoke life in medieval times. Music, art, and cuisine intertwine during these festivities, offering visitors an immersive experience.

Handicrafts

The handicrafts in Besalú keep the spirit of ancient crafts alive. From ceramics to textiles, local artisans continue to produce beautiful works that reflect past traditions and techniques. These artisans often open their workshops to visitors, offering a unique window into their art.

The Cuisine of Besalú

In addition to its historical and architectural wealth, Besalú is also known for its delicious cuisine. Visitors can enjoy traditional Catalan dishes such as escalivada, suquet de peix (fish stew), crema catalana, escudella i carn d'olla (a type of stew), and local cured meats, all available in the cozy restaurants and bars scattered throughout the town. Local products like honey and cheeses are also exquisite.

Visiting Besalú is like walking through a living canvas of history, art, and tradition, where each corner offers a new opportunity to explore the past and enjoy the careful preservation of a rich and diverse culture.

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Gastronomic Products of Besalú

• Canelons de Sant Esteve (Canelones de San Esteban)

  Traditionally prepared for the day after Christmas, these cannelloni are filled with the leftovers from the Christmas roast.

  

• Fideuà

  Similar to paella but made with noodles instead of rice. Often cooked with seafood and served with alioli.

  

• Butifarra amb Mongetes (Butifarra con Mongetes)

  Butifarra (a type of sausage) served with sautéed white beans is a classic Catalan dish, popular in Besalú and throughout Catalonia.

  

• Pa amb Tomàquet

  Bread with tomato is a simple but delicious preparation of bread spread with fresh tomato and often garlic, drizzled with olive oil and a pinch of salt.

  

• Escudella i Carn d'Olla

  A hearty Catalan stew that includes a variety of meats, sausages, legumes, and vegetables, traditionally served in two parts: first the broth with pasta, then the meat and vegetables.

  

• Artisanal Sausages

  Besalú is famous for its high-quality artisanal sausages. Local producers use traditional methods to craft a variety of sausages, such as fuet, longaniza, and botifarra. These sausages are known for their intense flavor and juicy texture, delighting meat lovers.

• Garrotxa Honey

  Garrotxa honey is another standout gastronomic product from Besalú. This honey is produced in the Garrotxa region, where bees feed on a wide variety of wildflowers and plants. The result is a uniquely flavored and aromatic honey, perfect for sweetening desserts or enjoying on toast.

• Artisanal Cheeses

  Besalú is also known for its high-quality artisanal cheeses. Local producers use cow, goat, or sheep milk to create a variety of cheeses, from soft and creamy to more intense and aged. These cheeses are perfect for enjoying alone, on a cheese board, or as an ingredient in gourmet dishes.

• Artisanal Chocolate

  Chocolate lovers should not miss trying the artisanal chocolate from Besalú. Local chocolatiers use high-quality ingredients and traditional techniques to create delicious bars, bonbons, and truffles. Besalú's chocolate is known for its intense flavor and smooth texture, and is a true treat for the palate.

• Crema Catalana

  A dessert similar to crème brûlée, but with a distinctive flavor of cinnamon and lemon or orange. It is typically Catalan and very popular in the region.

  

• Panellets

  Small sweets made from almond dough, often covered in pine nuts and served during the All Saints' Day holiday.

  

These dishes reflect the rich Catalan cuisine, known for its diversity of flavors and extensive use of fresh local products. Enjoying these meals in Besalú provides a window into the region's culinary past, along with a delicious gastronomic experience.

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Sporting Activities in Besalú, Spain

Hiking

Besalú offers a large number of hiking routes that allow you to enjoy its impressive natural landscape. You can explore the Natural Park of the Volcanic Zone of La Garrotxa or the Catalan Way of St. James.

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Cycling

Cycling is a very popular activity in Besalú, with numerous routes that cross the city and its surroundings. You can rent a bicycle and explore at your own pace, or join a guided tour.

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Kayaking

The Fluvià river, which runs through Besalú, is perfect for kayaking. You can rent a kayak and explore the river, enjoying the views of the medieval city from the water.

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Climbing

The nearby Sierra de la Garrotxa offers numerous opportunities for climbing. Whether you are an experienced climber or just starting out, you will find routes suitable for your level.

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Other activities

Explore the handpicked activities by JourneyGourmey to enhance your time in Besalú. Whether you're seeking thrilling outdoor escapades or captivating cultural encounters, we've curated each option to ensure unforgettable experiences. Dive into our selection with confidence! And for more options, don't hesitate to browse Viator

Places near Besalú (Spain)

If you are in Besalú and wish to explore a bit more, here we present you with some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:

Girona, a gem in the northeast of Spain, captivates with its medieval charm and exquisite cuisine. Its cobblestone streets, its impressive cathedral, and its famous dish of "suquet de peix" will transport you to another era while you enjoy an unforgettable culinary experience.

Banyoles, a charming tourist destination in Catalonia, will surprise you with its beautiful lake and rich culinary tradition. Enjoy boat rides, delicious dishes from the local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the history and culture of this picturesque village.

Rupit, a charming medieval village in Catalonia, transports you to another time with its cobblestone streets and stone houses. In addition to its architectural beauty, you can enjoy the delicious local cuisine, with traditional dishes such as escalivada and grilled lamb.