Friendly vibes of Girona

Girona is a cycling paradise, as we both experienced for ourselves. For the bike rides, check Michal’s ride stats. But for now, let’s have a look at the town itself. Beautiful medieval center, just big enough to wander through. Even though there is a considerable amount of stairs, it was quite ok with a stroller. Friendly cycling cafés, with seating outside even in February. Numerous tapas bars and vermoutheries for a night out.

Apparently we brought the weather with us, as it was pouring rain all day, all night the first week. But then, on one day we woke up to this view. Our mood went instantly up 100% 🙂

Once in Girona, one surely must not miss the sights. The Cathedral leaves you in awe, with the widest gothic nave in the world and the second widest church nave across all styles, surpassed only by Sant Peter’s in Vatican. There are priceless pieces of art accumulated throughout the centuries, but the most fascinating is probably the Tapestry of Creation from 11th c. and the Book of Beatus (vividly illustrated explanation of the Bible, 10th c.).

The St. Felix Basilica is the second important site to visit. Here, the most remarkable part can be found by the altar, a set of paleochristian sarcofagi from 3rd and 4th c. They are so intact and carved in such a detail it is almost unbelievable.

One can also take a stroll on the ramparts which run a half circle around the old town and offer magnificient views not only of the town itself, but also of the mountains towering around.