Tarragona at Sunset

elva8 (46)Member 🔷✅in CCS • 3 days ago

As I flipped through photos and reviewed my posts, I was astonished to realize that I had unjustly neglected Tarragona. This city gave me so many positive feelings that I still remember it with warmth and affection. Bright, sunny, colorful and cheerful... All these enthusiastic adjectives are completely fitting for Tarragona, as confirmed by generations of tourists.

Walking through the streets of Tarragona at sunset feels like time has slowed down. The sky turns golden and pink and the reflections on the sea create a mesmerizing view. The Catalan town is located 100 km south of Barcelona. The city has changed hands among various civilizations over the years and has experienced many hardships, including wars, epidemics and pirate attacks. It was particularly damaged when it was besieged by Napoleon's armies. The city’s reconstruction took decades.

Today's Tarragona still brims with the past and meticulously preserves the marks of centuries. Flower-covered balconies and lively squares are filled with shops and cafes, while quiet narrow streets and stone houses hide the secrets of centuries. Starting from Plaça Imperial Tàrraco and extending to the city's most picturesque spot, the "Mediterranean Balcony" Rambla Nova separates ancient Tarragona from modern Tarragona. This balcony located on the edge of a 23-meter cliff, offers views of the sea and the port, providing a unique sense of expanse and freedom.

The Palm Tree Boulevard stretching along the seaside, is a promenade with elegant palm trees on both sides. The path descends from the sun dials to the main attraction, the amphitheater. Among ancient theaters Tarragona's amphitheater is neither the largest nor the oldest, but its proximity to the sea makes it particularly appealing. The turquoise waters create a perfect backdrop for the ancient seats. Over the centuries, the amphitheater has witnessed many events: theater performances, bloody battles, gladiator fights and public executions of Christians were quite popular.

Exploring Tarragona reminds me that it is located on the famous Costa Dorada. It got its name due to its fine golden sand. We visited two different city beaches and saw that the name is truly deserved. The crystal-clear water and gentle waves impressed me greatly. There is something truly magical here, believe me.

In addition to swimming in the sea, we immersed ourselves every day in a general joy and a constant festival atmosphere. The city was always buzzing with events - food festivals, group runs and religious ceremonies.

We also had the chance to witness the opening of Tarragona's biggest city festival, the Festes de Santa Tecla de Tarragona. Dedicated to Santa Tecla, this festival has been held for seven centuries, lasts for 10 days and includes events like parades, street concerts and performances. Streets adorned with flags are filled with songs and dances from morning until evening.