It seems incredible that a movie town like this is not full of tourists. However, this medieval corner of Bajo Ampurdán in Girona keeps all its medieval charm intact, with an old town of cobbled streets that takes you centuries back in time. Close to the Costa Brava and the incredible natural setting of Les Gavarres, Monells awaits you.
Monells is the town where 'Eight Catalan Surnames' was filmed, but that has not condemned it to tourist overcrowding. In fact, it prides itself on keeping its Gothic architecture intact, with passageways such as Calle del Arcs, full of archways that join the stone facades of the old mansions on both sidewalks and looks like a scene from 'Game of Thrones'.
This alley covered with centuries-old arches will lead you to the Plaza del Oli, with more archways and leafy vines that contrast with the yellow of the stone on the facades. The medieval market was held in this small square in the 14th and 15th centuries. From it comes the Dr.Oliva passage that leads to Plaza Jaume I.
Jaume I Square
Plaza Jaume I is also the town's Plaza Mayor and is surrounded by beautiful stone buildings with arcades, where the town's terraces and bars are protected from inclement weather and offer tapas and traditional meals. After a stop to rest, this getaway ends at the Church of San Genís, a temple that mixes Romanesque and Gothic from the 11th century.
Church of San Genis
This Catalan town was once built around a Romanesque castle, but of that fortress only the walls remain that can be seen throughout the city. However, Monells does not need a castle. Only its streets, houses and corners are responsible for maintaining the medieval appearance as if we were still in the Middle Ages. It is the perfect getaway near Barcelona to unwind for a weekend.
