Begin the day with hotel pickup, available from Girona, in a private vehicle. First, explore Girona’s old Jewish quarter, also known as the ‘Call’ and considered one of the best-preserved of its kind in Europe, remaining much as it was up until the expulsion of the Jews from Spain in 1492.
Soak up the atmosphere as you wander winding medieval streets, poke around in unique shops, and take a break for lunch at a local restaurant (own expense). Also visit the town’s Museum of Jewish History (admission included) to learn about the area’s past and notable former residents, including prominent kabbalist and Jewish scholar Nahmanides.
In the afternoon, continue on to the town of Besalú, crossing the Fluvià River by way of a distinctive Romanesque bridge. Hear about Besalú’s long Jewish heritage, traces of which are still being uncovered today, and learn why the town was named a site of great cultural and artistic importance in 1966.
See the remnants of a 13th-century synagogue and visit the town’s most esteemed cultural treasure—an underground Mikveh (ceremonial bath) that dates back to the 12th century. Imagine what life was like during medieval times with a stroll through the picturesque narrow streets marked by stone steps and archways, and browse handcrafted goods at small local shops.
The full-day discovery tour concludes with drop-off back at your original departure point in the afternoon.
