| Castelló
d`Empuriés |
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The
medieval town is at the midpoint between Figueres and Roses and approximately
4 km from the Gulf of Roses. The river Muga flows south through Castelló
into the sea, passing by the Aiguamolls de l'Empordà, a protected
area noted for its abundant migratory bird population. Many roads lead
to Empúries, and many of these routes pass through flat rural areas,
by fields and vineyards or along ponds and beach, or along the Muga and
the Aiguamolls. It is worthwhile to discover these, as well as other routes,
such as off-road on a bicycle or walking. In its centre Castelló
retained its quiet charm and even in tourist season one can still enjoy
peace and contemplation. Castelló began to flourish in the 11th
century and rose to become an important economic centre. The counts of
Empúries made it their residence and 7 monasteries can be found
in the area around the town. The landmark of the small town, visible for
afar, is the parish church Santa Maria which is often called the “cathedral
of the Empordà” because of its size and gothic influence
architecture. The powerful square bell tower comes from an older roman
building and the second tower remains unfinished. The building of the
church begun in the 14th Century and the façade was begun at the
beginning of the 15. Century. It is one of the few gothic churches located
in a rural area. |
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Characteristic
is the step portal decorated with plaster figures, the Apostle figures on
both sides and the mother of God with child and the holy 3 kings in the
Tympanum. The main ship rests on slim columns, which evolve into a strained
arched vault. The transept arms are only a little lower than the main nave,
so that a large area is encompassed, rounded off by the choir and the Apses
with their pointed elbow and slim tracery windows. The splendid flamboyant
high altar is a masterpiece of detailed plaster forms. The work, begun in
1485 by Vicenç Borràs, carved from alabaster stone, shows
scenes from the life of Jesus. The central figure is the mother of God under
a splendorous crowned canopy. The accompanying towers are typical gothic
architectural elements and make the viewer to look up toward the sky. We
are lucky that recently this splendid altar was reconditioned and cleaned.
In the western side of the cathedral
an enormous baroque organ dominates the entrance portal. The organ, begun
in the 18th Century by Jean Pierre Cavaillé is in the French style.
The organ, with 59 registers, distributed on 4 manuals was partly destroyed
during the Spanish civil war. Since 1970 the organ has been renovated,
and there is a solicitation in many languages seeking donations to complete
the restoration of this masterpiece.
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The
large medieval celebration, the Terra de Troubadours, is celebrated on
11 September as well as the next weekend. Much is offered during the celebration,
including knight plays, minstrel songs, old handicraft arts, doll players,
and a medieval feast all add up to an impressive experience.
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In the new local
part of town, Castelló Nou, a busy flea market is held every Sunday.
The "Marina" Empuriabrava, with its canals and waterways is Eldorado
to friends of every kind of water sport and is one of the most important
tourism centres of the coast. Empuriabrava is located only a few kilometres
away and is administered by Castelló d’Empúries. |
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