Serving as the capital of Baix Ebre, Tortosa lies along the banks of the Ebro River between Barcelona and Valencia. It was settled by the Umayyads in the 8th century and remained under Muslim control for around 400 years before being conquered by the Count of Barcelona during the Second Crusade.
Things to do in Tortosa
One of Tortosa’s most striking architectural landmarks is the Cathedral of Saint Mary, which was constructed between 1347 and 1757 on designs by Benito Dalguayre. While it is predominantly built in a Catalan Gothic style, its 18th-century facade is distinctly Baroque. Step inside to marvel at the cathedral’s soaring interior and experience its peaceful cloister.
Occupying a 1908-built slaughterhouse is the Museo de Tortosa, which details the city’s history from prehistoric times to the modern day. The building was envisioned by Pau Monguió i Segura and was influenced by Mudejar architecture, with its arched facade and glazed roof tiles. Nearby is the Castell de la Suda, a 10th-century fortress that offers magnificent views across Tortosa.
Sprawling south of the city centre is the riverfront Parc de Teodor Gonzalez, which was laid out in the late 19th century on a design by Joan Abril i Guanyabens. Stroll along the porticoed walkway and let the kids run loose in the children’s playground or relax in the restaurant. Also within the park is La Llotja, a medieval market building that was translocated here stone by stone.
Getting around Tortosa
Tortosa is around an hour’s drive from Tarragona and two hours from Barcelona. Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport is just over 1.5 hours away and has flights to destinations across the globe. Regular trains connect to Tortosa and buses travel throughout the city. The centre of Tortosa can easily be explored on foot.