Costa Brava Guide

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  Besalu

Besalu is an attractive small town about 20 km west of Figueres. Besalu was designated as Spain's historical national property in 1966. The most striking feature is the roman bridge (12 century) across the Fluvia which was constructed on existing rocks in the riverbed and has an unusual angular form. In the Middle Ages a toll was raised from travelers crossing the bridge.

The church of Sant Pere belonged once to the monastery (created in the year 977) of the same name. The church was inaugurated in the year 1003. Note the detail on the columns with influences from North of Italy. Also, note the figures of lions at the entrance. About 2.150 inhabitants live in Besalu. And the place is visited the whole year by tourists. Nevertheless Besalu's porticoed streets and squares never seem crowded or commercialized. Souvenir shops and restaurants are inserted harmoniously into the local character. The recently discovered and restored Mikva, a ritual Jewish bath dates to the 11 or 12 century is located in the lower town near the river Fluvia. Other attractions include the Casa Llaudes and the church of Sant Vicenç which was built during the 12 and 13 centuries and shows the transition from Romanesque to Gothic design. Besalu lies between the rivers Capellades and Fluvia in the Garrotxa region.

A day trip can also include Olot and the volcanic region or Banyoles and its delightful lake. The landscape of Garrotxa is pleasant and the road west [N 260] from Besalu toward Olot or south [C 150] from Besalu toward Banyoles is especially attractive. Going to Besalu: Start from Figueres on the road toward Olot [N 260]. Immediately prior to Besalu, close to the bridge, is a large parking lot. At the parking lot is a board with daily information and a map.