Figueres: visit this amazing town during your holiday on the Costa Brava
About the city
Figueres is a town situated in Catalonia, 100 kilometers away from Barcelona. Most of the visitors coming from Barcelona travel by train, bus or car. Traveling by train to Figueres is the fastest way – due to the fast rail, the trip lasts around an hour. The closest airport is in Costa Brava and in Barcelona.
History
The city is famous for its great historic monuments and well known inhabitants who were born there and lived in it: Salvador Dali, Narcis Monturiol and Monica Naranjo.
In the 10th century, Figueres started to receive its first shape as a citadel. This was the time when the Roman Empire conquered Spain. But Figueres had no big role in defending the borders of the Empire.
From the 13th century, its role in the Kingdom started to grow as much as the city population. From the medieval time till present day, this is one of the biggest cities in Spain.
City Attractions
Figueres has the biggest castle in the whole of Europe. This is the Castle of Sant Ferran. The castle was built in the 18th century. At first, it was a prison and later, it was occupied by Napoleon’s army.
The castle is open for the visitors during the whole year and is the favorite place, not only for the tourists to take a walk but also for the locals. The Rambla is the oldest and central part of the city. It is known for its narrow streets that are near the river.
Along the streets there are many benches for those who like to sit and enjoy the song of the birds. The potatoes’ square in the 15th century was the main market place in Figueres. This is the place where the farmers gathered and sold their goods.
Today, it is a peaceful square with two bars and lots of picturesque houses from the 17th century. Theatre Museu Gala Salvador Dali is a museum dedicated to Salvador Dali. Actually, he even designed it.
Salvador Dali is one of the world’s famous artists who lived in Spain. His museum displays most of his extraordinary works. After his death, many of his best pieces of work were removed from there and sent to Madrid. Apart from his art works, the museum displays works of other famous Catalan artists.
Another interesting museum to visit is Museu del Joguet. Over 50 000 toys are displayed there. Some of them are belongings of famous people in history. Visit Museu de la Tecnica de l’Emporda – it shows how technology grew over centuries.
Events
Every city in Spain has its own celebrations and so does Figueres. The most important events take place on the streets. Various fiestas take place from May to June every year. If you have the opportunity, visit Festival Acustica – festival dedicated to acoustic music, in August every year.