Tarragona buildings in Catalonia, Catalan Architecture Images, Spain architects design

Architecture in Tarragona, Spain : Catalan Buildings

Spanish Built Environment – Architectural Designs

post updated 17 August 2024

Tarragona : Catalonia’s very own Roman Empire

Tarragona Cathedral Building:

photograph © Adrian Welch

Tarragona Architecture

Go back to a time of conquest and adventure through the astonishing sites of Roman architecture, medieval buildings, and ancient aqueducts in a city that was one the capital of the Roman Empire: Tarragona. Situated on Spain’s Costa Dorada (Golden Coast), this beautiful seaside city makes for a great getaway from the hustle and bustle of the Catalan capital, with many people choosing to leave their apartments in Barcelona and head for this more tranquil part of Catalonia.

The area welcomes travelers from all over the world to admire its breathtaking Roman ruins, stunning Mediterranean beaches and charming alleyways adorned with colorful orange trees. From a romantic retreat to a family-friendly day out, Tarragona (or Terraco as the Romans called it) offers something for everyone to enjoy.

Roman Amphitheatre Tarragona:

photograph © Adrian Welch

Roman Architecture: Ruins, Amphitheatres and Aqueducts

Recently given the UNESCO World Heritage Site status, Tarragona’s Roman ruins are great for sightseeing and are some of the best conserved ancient buildings in all of Europe. Walking is the best way to take in these Tarragona attractions as all of the ancient Roman sites are within a fifteen minute walk from each other. Start by making your way down the city’s main street, Rambla Nova, where you can see the Foro de la Colonia, the Provincial Forum and the National Archaeological Museum. Make sure you stop at the end of the Rambla where you will be treated to gorgeous views of the Mediterranean Sea from the famed Balcón del Mediterráneo. Look around and discover the 2nd century AD Roman amphitheater, where audiences of up to 15,000 people would cram together to take in some of Rome’s infamous gladiator fights.

Passeig de les Palmeres:

photograph © Isabelle Lomholt

Other notable sites to check out along the way:

• The Ferreres Aqueduct
• The Roman Wall
• Tarragona Cathedral (although not a ruin, this magnificent cathedral is certainly worth a visit)
• Praetorium
• Circus Complex

Mediterranean Cuisine and Tarragona Nightlife

Cathedral in Tarragona:

photograph © Adrian Welch

Tarragona has many restaurants serving up delectable dishes for you to enjoy after a long day of sightseeing. Head to Plaça de la Font, the city’s main square, where you can find plenty of bars, cafés and restaurants serving up traditional Mediterranean dishes, from fresh seafood paella to pasta. For the party goers, this historic city also has a few nightclubs. We recommend stopping by ‘El Cau’, a hidden club set in a Roman circus vault!

Roman Amphitheatre in Tarragona:

photo © AW

Golden Coast of Soft Sands and Sparkling Waters

Tarragona may be admired for its ancient Roman architecture, but the city offers much more to discover, such as its fine, golden sands that extend for a jaw-dropping 211km. Take a load off for a while and relax along the sparkling Mediterranean Sea under the Spanish sun.

Just a short walk or bus ride away from the city center is one of the most popular Tarragona beaches, Arrabassada beach. Fine sands, warm waters and volleyball nets make this a favorite among families with kids, as well as a wonderful place to kick back.

Playa Larga is another favorite beach, offering jet ski rentals and some of most delicious seafood restaurants in Tarragona, making it the perfect spot to have some fun during the day and chill out at night!

Roman remains in Tarragona:

photo copyright AW

How to get to Tarragona from Barcelona:

• Public transportation: Renfe trains from Sants station (approx. 1 hour)

• By Car: Take the AP7 Motorway (approx. 80km from Barcelona) If you have already decided to reserve one of the many city center Barcelona apartments, then a day trip to Tarragona makes for the perfect escape from Gaudí’s City for a few hours. Here you can relax on the one of the pristine beaches or take in the sights of the stunning historical architecture. If it pleases you to lose yourself in this piece of the Roman Empire for more than just a day, you can always rent one of the many Costa Dorada apartments and experience the powerful remnants of this ancient Roman capital at your own pace.

Location: Tarragona, Catalunya, North East Spain, south western Europe