Puntos de Interés
Municipality
Sant Feliu de Guíxols
On the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, in the heart of the Costa Brava is the municipality of Sant Feliu de Guíxols.
The origin of this town of Baix Empordà dates back to the year 968 and is linked to an ancient monastery, which was the first settlement, located in the historic centre of the city adjacent to the steam. This monastery dates back to the 1st century BCE. Later, in the Middle Ages, it became a Benedictine monastery and an important royal residence. With the passing of time, the people of Sant Feliu de Guíxols have excelled in different areas, but above all in shipbuilding.
From the 19th century, the town underwent a transformation thanks to the cork manufacturing industry and the narrow-gauge railway (carrilet). The village was transformed into a large, bourgeois industrial town that evolved in the mid-20th century to specialize in tourism and services. All this favoured by the Mediterranean climate with mild temperatures throughout the year.
The great economic and social development that Sant Feliu has undergone since then has completely changed its urban landscape.
The city, which was formerly a fishing village still retains an important historical heritage whose greatest exponent is undoubtedly the site formed by the Benedictine monastery. The Baroque-style fortification preserves structures of great importance such as the 10th century Romanesque Porta Ferrada, the church of Mare de Déu dels Àngels and the towers of el Fum and El Corn. Currently the monastery houses the town’s Museum of History and is the headquarters of the Carmen Thyssen - Bornemisza Catalan Collection Art Centre. Also noteworthy are the modernist houses on the beach of Sant Pol, the stately homes of the seafront promenade and the chapel of Sant Elm.
Regarding the festivities, Carnival is celebrated in February with various local dishes and parades being enjoyed. With the arrival of spring, Sant Jordi Day is celebrated on April 23rd, when it is common to exchange bouquets of flowers with friend and family. On June 23rd, with the arrival of summer, San Juan Day is celebrated with various festivities taking place. Also in summer, on July 16th, there is the procession of the Virgen del Carmen, patron saint of fishermen, and throughout August and September, the residents celebrate the Festa Major, where the streets are filled with stalls, fairs and concerts.