Empúries, the most spectacular archaeological complex on the Costa Brava

A simple visit to Empúries , located in the north of the Costa Brava , already justifies a trip to this emblematic place on the Catalan coast. It is well known that the region is home to some of the best beaches and coves in Spain and hides beautiful fishing villages in its rich and diverse coastline, as well as real medieval gems in inland villages. However, not everyone knows the fascinating fact that Empúries was the gateway to Greek and Roman culture in the Iberian Peninsula more than 2,600 years ago.

Empúries. Where it is located and how to get there

The archaeological site of Empúries is located at the foot of the beach, in a privileged natural setting overlooking the Gulf of Roses , in the Girona municipality of L'Escala , in the Catalan region of Alt Empordà . The border with France and Girona-Costa Brava Airport are just 50 kilometers away , and the city of Barcelona is 140 kilometers away.

Greek and Roman civilizations in Empúries

The ruins of Empúries are the only archaeological site in Spain where the remains of a Hellenic city (the colonial enclave of Emporion ) , founded in 575 BC, coexist with the remains of a Roman city. (the ancient Emporiae ) , founded in the early 1st century BC on the structures of a Roman military camp set up during the previous century.

The first excavations of the enclosure began in 1908, and since then until today a constant scientific recovery of the zone has been defended. It is a must-see for lovers of history and archeology , who can enjoy an itinerary through the ruins and the Museum of Archeology of Catalonia - Empúries ( MAC) , located in the same archaeological site. Among its beauty, the mosaics of the old manor houses, the sculpture of Asclepius or the imposing Roman forum stand out, as well as the wonderful views of the Mediterranean Sea .

Villages near Empúries

Undoubtedly, the main tourist attraction in the area are the ruins of Empúries , however, in the vicinity there are many interesting attractions to visit. The nearest town, Sant Martí d'Empúries , is a 10-minute walk along a beautiful promenade along the coast with spectacular sea views.

The small town, with only 40 inhabitants, has a special charm and preserves intact important vestiges of the Middle Ages in the narrow streets of its historic center, such as the church of Sant Martí d'Empúries , built in the early sixteenth century on a 9th century temple, or also the ancient medieval walls. During the summer months, it is a real luxury to have a drink on one of the terraces of the village and enjoy the tranquility you breathe.

To the south, 3 kilometers away or 10 minutes by car, is located the town near Empúries with the largest town, L'Escala . It is the capital of the municipality and has one of the most important ports on the Costa Brava . In fact, the sign of identity of L'Escala is one of the products that catches the fishing fleet of the population daily, the anchovy. The marketing of anchovies in the village dates back centuries of tradition and the reputation is worldwide.

Beaches and gastronomic offer

Every year, thousands of tourists from all over the world visit Empúries to enjoy a dream holiday with family or friends. Most come to this place on the Mediterranean coast attracted by the quality of its excellent beaches and coves with crystal clear waters surrounded by natural parks and also by the renowned Empordà cuisine.

Near Empúries there is a world of beaches to discover, from large kilometers of sandy beaches to small stone coves surrounded by pine trees and rocks of improbable shapes. In addition, they are the perfect setting to taste one of its varied restaurants of the sensational gastronomy of the Alt Empordà , which stands out for exquisite dishes that perfectly combine the products of the land and the Catalan coast.

Buy a house in Empúries

The real estate market in the surroundings of Empúries has registered a high growth in the last decade. The main towns around the Gulf of Roses such as L'Escala, Sant Pere Pescador , Empuriabrava and Roses offer a wide range of possibilities for all tastes and pockets. Now, more than ever, is the best time to invest in a home or buy a home as a second home on the Costa Brava and enjoy its extraordinary quality of life.

Are you interested in buying properties in Empúries to enjoy a few months of vacation a year or settle permanently in the town? Contact our real estate agency in Empúries to find an apartment, flat, house or villa in the town of your dreams .