Girona
Geography
Girona is a city in the northeastern part of Catalonia, Spain, at the confluence of the rivers Ter, Onyar, Galligants, and Güell. It is the capital of the province of the same name and of the comarca of the Gironès. It is located 99 km (62 mi) northeast of Barcelona. Girona is one of the major Catalan cities.
History
The first historical inhabitants in the region were Iberians; later, the Romans built a citadel there, which was given the name of Gerunda. The Visigoths ruled in Girona until it was conquered by the Moors in 715. Finally, Charlemagne reconquered it in 785 and made it one of the fourteen original counties of Catalonia. Thus, Girona was a border town until the Moorish rule was finally driven out of the region. The city was besieged several times during its history.
Architecture
Girona has a number of noteworthy architectural landmarks spanning many periods. The old town stands on the steep hill of the Capuchins to the east of the river Onyar, while the more modern section stands on the plains to the west. The ancient cathedral, which stood on the site of the present one, was used by the Moors as a mosque, and after their final expulsion was either entirely remodelled or rebuilt.
The present edifice is one of the most important monuments of the school of the Majorcan architect Jaume Fabre and an excellent example of Catalan Gothic architecture. It is approached by eighty-six steps. An aisle and chapels surround the choir, which opens by three arches into the nave, of which the pointed stone vault is the widest in Christendom (22 meters).
Among the many notable older buildings are the monastery of Sant Pere de Galligants; the collegiate church of Sant Feliu, as noteworthy for its style of building as for its sculptures; the private houses of the Onyar, constructed in the 19th and early 20th centuries, which are hanging buildings on the Onyar river.
Culture
Girona has a rich cultural life. The city is home to many festivals and cultural events throughout the year. The most famous event is the annual flower festival "Temps de Flors". The festival takes place each May and transforms the streets and courtyards of the city into flower-filled displays. The city is also known for its museums, including the Museum of Cinema, which is a tribute to the city's long history of film production.
Economy
The economy of Girona is characterized by a mix of tourism, retail, and manufacturing industries. The city is a popular destination for tourists, who are drawn to its historic architecture, cultural festivals, and natural beauty. The retail sector is also a significant part of the local economy, with a variety of shops and markets offering a wide range of goods. The manufacturing sector includes industries such as food processing, chemical production, and machinery manufacturing.
Education
Girona is home to the University of Girona, a comprehensive institution that offers a wide range of academic programs in fields such as humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, health sciences, and engineering. The university is known for its research output and its contributions to regional development.