Tarragona

A trip to Tarragona is a great way of discovering the Roman legacy that is preserved in this city located on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea. Ancient Tarraco became the capital of the Roman Empire more than 2,000 years ago. It was the residence of Emperor Caesar Augustus from 27 BC to 25 BC, and became a very important colony in Roman Hispania, reaching a population of over 30,000 inhabitants. In fact, in Roman times, Tarragona was larger, more important, and more imposing than Barcelona. The predominance of Barcelona came later during the Middle Ages.

On the way to Tarragona, we will make a stop on the highway to see an incredible structure up close: the Aqueduct of Ferreres, whose stone structure has been preserved in its entirety; you will get the chance to walk across the place where 2,000 years ago the water that supplied the whole population of the city ran. This is a unique opportunity and well worth a visit.

Once in Tarragona, we will see the remains of the robust Roman wall, visit the Amphitheater which hosted gladiator fights, and shows with wild animals, and where slaves and Christians were sacrificed. We will see the remains of the Roman Circus where chariot races took place, so well immortalized in the movie Ben-Hur and capable of accommodating 25,000 spectators, almost the total population of Tarraco. We will also stroll through the historic center of Tarragona, through its history-laden streets, and you will get the chance to visit its beautiful medieval Cathedral if you wish. Tarragona has numerous places to eat before returning to your hotel.

It is always advisable to leave Barcelona no later than 9:00 am to make sure you arrive early enough to see everything and find all the important sights open.