Exploring Tarragona: A Family Adventure in Spain's Historical Gem

Whispers of History in Catalonia

Today was a journey back in time, a day filled with the echoes of monks chanting and the clatter of medieval marketplaces. Leaving the coastal charm of Tarragona behind for a day, my family and I ventured inland to explore the spiritual heart of Catalonia and experience the rustic beauty of its medieval towns. It's amazing how much history is packed into this region, and I couldn't wait to share it with Jana and Maximilian.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurant Sentits Plaça de la Font. Located right on Plaça de la Font, the vibrant heart of Tarragona, it was the perfect spot to fuel up for our adventure. The kids enjoyed some taters, while Jana and I opted for the traditional Spanish tortilla. With its central location, the restaurant allowed us to soak in the morning atmosphere of the city before we headed out.


Experience authentic Mediterranean flavors at Restaurant Sentits in Tarragona's lively Plaça de la Font.
Soon after breakfast, we set off towards our first destination: the Santa María de Poblet Monastery. The drive itself was scenic, with the landscape gradually transforming from coastal plains to rolling hills dotted with vineyards. As we approached the monastery, its imposing silhouette against the horizon was truly breathtaking.

Founded in 1150, the Santa María de Poblet Monastery is a Cistercian abbey with immense architectural and historical significance. As we walked through its grand entrance, I felt an immediate sense of peace and reverence. The monastery has served as a royal pantheon for the Kings of Aragon, adding to its majestic aura. Maximilian was fascinated by the sheer size of the place, running around the courtyards with boundless energy, while Jana, ever the librarian, was captivated by the ancient scriptorium.

Explore the historical Santa María de Poblet Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Tarragona, Spain, celebrated for its stunning architecture and serene ambiance.

The journey of a lifetime involves not only seeing new things but also seeing things with new eyes.

The church, dating back to the 12th century, is the centerpiece of the monastery. Its soaring ceilings and intricate stonework left us in awe. We spent a good amount of time wandering through the cloisters, imagining the lives of the monks who once walked those same paths. The audio guide provided fascinating insights into the monastery's history, its role in Catalan culture, and the lives of the monks who dedicated their lives to prayer and scholarship.

One of the most striking features of the monastery was the pantheon of the Kings of Aragon and Catalonia. The elaborate tombs and sculptures were a testament to the power and grandeur of the medieval monarchs. Maximilian was particularly intrigued by the stories of battles and conquests, while Jana appreciated the artistry and craftsmanship of the monuments.

Leaving the monastery, we drove towards Montblanc, a medieval town that seemed straight out of a fairy tale. The drive was short, and as we approached the town, the imposing medieval walls came into view. Montblanc is a treasure trove of history, with its well-preserved architecture and charming atmosphere.

Discover the medieval charm of Montblanc in Tarragona, where history, culture, and stunning architecture await every traveler.

Before exploring the town, we stopped for lunch at Ca l’Eulàlia. This restaurant is known for its fresh seafood and traditional Catalan cuisine. We started with some delicious tuna, followed by a hearty paella. The seafood was incredibly fresh, and the flavors were authentic and satisfying. Maximilian enjoyed the meal so much that he asked for seconds, a rare occurrence that made us all smile.

Experience exquisite Mediterranean cuisine at Ca l’Eulàlia, Tarragona's premier seafood restaurant with stunning views and exceptional service.

After lunch, we strolled through the narrow, winding streets of Montblanc. The town is remarkably well-preserved, with its medieval walls, Gothic churches, and noble houses. We visited the Church of Santa Maria la Major, a stunning example of Catalan Gothic architecture. Its intricate facade and soaring bell tower were truly impressive.

As we wandered through the town, we stumbled upon a local artisan market. Jana was immediately drawn to a stall selling handmade jewelry, while Maximilian was fascinated by a woodcarver creating intricate figurines. I picked up a few souvenirs, including a beautifully crafted wooden toy for Maximilian and a delicate silver necklace for Jana.

Before leaving Montblanc, we couldn't resist stopping for a sweet treat. We found a small bakery selling traditional Catalan pastries. We bought a selection of treats, including panellets (small almond cakes) and carquinyolis (crisp almond biscuits). We sat on a bench in the town square, savoring the delicious pastries and soaking in the atmosphere of this charming medieval town.

For dinner, we decided to try Lo Gat in Tarragona. This tavern offers vegan options alongside traditional fare. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff made it a perfect place to unwind after a long day of exploring. I was intrigued by the vegan options available, including vegan cheese for some dishes.

Experience authentic Mediterranean flavors at Lo Gat in Tarragona—a must-visit restaurant for food lovers seeking quality and charm.

Before heading back to the hotel, we made a quick stop at Abacus Cooperativa | Tarragona. This shop is a treasure trove of books, stationery, and educational toys. Maximilian loves browsing the shelves, always eager to discover new books and games. We picked up a few new additions for his collection, including a book about Roman history and a challenging puzzle.

Explore Abacus Cooperativa in Tarragona, your one-stop shop for gifts, art supplies, children's books, and unique stationery.

As the day drew to a close, I reflected on our experiences. From the spiritual serenity of the Santa María de Poblet Monastery to the medieval charm of Montblanc, today was a journey through Catalonia's rich history and culture. Sharing these experiences with my family made it even more special. As we drove back to our hotel, Maximilian fell asleep in the back seat, clutching his new book about Roman history. Jana and I exchanged a knowing glance, grateful for another day of unforgettable memories.

Tomorrow marks the last day of our Tarragona adventure. We plan to spend the day soaking up the sun at Platja dels Capellans, taking a leisurely stroll along the Rambla Nova, and admiring the Monument to the Castellers. I also hope to do some last-minute souvenir shopping at Les Gavarres before we head back to Brno. It’s bittersweet to think that our trip is coming to an end, but I know we’ll cherish the memories we’ve made here for years to come.