Tarragona: Eternal Sunshine of a Spanish City
Tarragona is a sun-drenched Spanish secret whose medieval myriad of cobbled alleyways harbour aesthetic delights. Rich Roman reminders decorate the outstanding Old Town, whose evocative maze of monuments and sacred structures is considered one of Spain’s most beautiful. Culture combines with coastal splendour here, so whether you want to recline upon the soft sands of the beautiful beaches or delve into the prosperous past, Tarragona is sure to satisfy and seduce. An effervescent epicurean scene bursts forth from traditional taverns and rustic restaurants, all of which exude enticing aromas of freshly grilled prawns and sizzling chorizo sausage.
The Crowning Cathedral
Reigning resplendently above Tarragona’s historic quarter, the Catedral is the unrefuted jewel in the city’s architectural crown. An attractive amalgamation of Gothic and Romanesque features makes the façade of this sacred structure a truly arresting image; elaborate carvings upon the interior cloisters depict eclectic tales, one of which shows a party of rats conducting the funeral of a cat who met an untimely end.
An Archaeological Array
The rich cultural and geological inheritance of Tarragona means its Museu Nacional Arquelogic de Tarragona presents an astounding array of frescoes, sculpture and pottery that allude to a prosperous past that straddles centuries. An aesthetic highlight comes in the form of the Mosaic de Peixos de la Pineda, a glittering mosaic that depicts sea creatures from the dazzling depths.
Medieval Meals
Housed in the subterranean medieval vaults of the city is a rustic restaurant whose locally inspired dishes are sure to dazzle. Arcs Restaurant serves sublime specialities in an ancient setting, creating a dynamic dining experience typical of Tarragona; culinary highlights include to richly roasted venison steak smothered in a sweet chocolate sauce.( Carrer de Misser Sitges, 13bajos, 43003 Tarragona, Spain)