Enchanting Girona: The Jewel of Catalonia

• HelloHola
  [oh-lah]
• GoodbyeAdéu
  [ah-deh-oo]
• YesSí
  [see]
• NoNo
  [noh]
• Please/You're welcomeSi us plau/De res
  [see oos plow/deh res]
• Thank youGràcies
  [grah-syes]
• Excuse me/SorryPerdona/Disculpa
  [pehr-doh-nah/dees-kool-pah]
• How are you?Com estàs?
  [kohm ehs-tahs]
• Fine. And you?Bé. I tu?
  [beh/ee too]
• Do you speak English?Parles anglès?
  [pahr-lehs ahn-glehs]
• I don't understandNo entenc
  [noh ehn-tenk]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseM'agradaria veure la carta, si us plau
  [mah-grah-dyah veh-oo-reh lah kar-tah, see oos plow]
• I don't eat meatJo no menjo carn
  [hoh noh mehn-hoh kahrn]
• Cheers!Salut!
  [sah-loot]
• I would like to pay, pleaseVoldria pagar, si us plau
  [vohl-dree-ah pah-gahr, see oos plow]

• Help!Ajuda!
  [ah-hoo-dah]
• Go away!Vés-te'n!
  [veys-tehn]
• Call the Police!Truca a la policia!
  [troo-kah ah lah poh-lee-see-ah]
• Call a doctor!Truca a un metge!
  [troo-kah ah oon meht-geh]
• I'm lostEstic perdut
  [ehs-teek pehr-dooh]
• I'm illEstic malalt
  [ehs-teek mah-lahlt]

• I'd like to buy...Voldria comprar...
  [vohl-dree-ah kohm-prahr]
• I'm just lookingNomés estic mirant
  [noh-mehs ehs-teek mee-rahn]
• How much is it?Quant val?
  [kwahnt vahl]
• That's too expensiveAixò és massa car
  [ay-shoh ehs mah-sah kahr]
• Can you lower the price?Pots baixar el preu?
  [pohts by-shahr ehl preh-oo]

• What time is it?Quina hora és?
  [kee-nah oh-rah ehs]
• It's one o'clockÉs la una
  [ehs lah oo-nah]
• Half past (10)Dos quarts de onze
  [dohs kwahrts deh ohn-zeh]
• MorningMatí
  [mah-teeh]
• AfternoonTarda
  [tahr-dah]
• EveningVespre
  [vehs-preh]
• YesterdayAhir
  [ah-eer]
• TodayAvui
  [ah-voo-ee]
• TomorrowDemà
  [deh-mah]
• 1Un
  [oon]
• 2Dos
  [dohs]
• 3Tres
  [trehs]
• 4Quatre
  [kwah-treh]
• 5Cinc
  [seenk]
• 6Sis
  [sees]
• 7Set
  [set]
• 8Vuit
  [bwit]
• 9Nou
  [noh]
• 10Deu
  [deh-oo]

• Where's a/the...?On és un/el...?
  [ohn ehs oon/ehl]
• What's the address?Quina és l'adreça?
  [kee-nah ehs lad-reh-sah]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Em pots ensenyar (al mapa)?
  [ehm pohts ehn-sehn-yahr (ahl mah-pah)]
• When's the next (bus)?Quan és el proper (autobús)?
  [kwahn ehs ehl proh-pehr (ow-toh-boos)]
• A ticket (to ....)Un bitllet (a ...)
  [oon bee-tlyet (ah)]

Girona, known as Gerunda in Roman times, was established around the 1st century BC. The Romans built the city as a fortified settlement to protect the Via Augusta, an important road connecting Rome to Cadiz. Remnants of the Roman walls can still be seen in the Força Vella, the ancient nucleus of Girona.

During the Middle Ages, Girona flourished as a significant commercial and political hub. The construction of the Cathedral of Saint Mary of Girona began in the 11th century and showcases a blend of Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles. The Jewish Quarter, or El Call, was one of the most important in medieval Europe, reflecting the city's diverse and thriving community.

One of the most dramatic episodes in Girona's history was the Siege of 1809 during the Peninsular War. French forces attempted to capture the city, but the residents, led by General Álvarez de Castro, showed remarkable resilience. Despite eventually succumbing after seven months, the siege turned Girona into a symbol of resistance and heroism in Catalan history.

The 19th century brought industrialization to Girona, transforming it into a center for textile production. The arrival of the railway in 1862 further boosted economic growth and connected Girona more closely with the rest of Spain. This era also saw urban expansion beyond the ancient walls, blending historical and modern elements.

The Spanish Civil War (1936-1939) left a profound impact on Girona. The city experienced bombings and significant destruction. Under Franco's dictatorship, many Catalan cultural expressions were suppressed. However, Girona's spirit persisted, and it became a focal point for Catalan identity and resistance.

In recent decades, Girona has experienced a cultural and economic renaissance. The restoration of historical monuments, coupled with a burgeoning tourism industry, has revitalized the city. Girona's role as a filming location for popular TV series like 'Game of Thrones' has also brought international attention, showcasing its rich heritage and picturesque landscapes.

Girona is well-connected and can be accessed via various modes of transportation. The nearest international airport is Girona-Costa Brava Airport, located about 12 kilometers from the city center. Alternatively, Barcelona-El Prat Airport is approximately 100 kilometers away and offers a wider range of international flights. From both airports, you can take a taxi, bus, or rent a car to reach Girona. Additionally, Girona is a major stop on the high-speed AVE train network, with direct connections to Barcelona, Madrid, and other major Spanish cities. Regular bus services also operate between Girona and various Spanish cities and towns.

Girona has a well-organized public transportation system that includes buses and taxis. The local bus network covers the city and its surroundings, making it easy to get around. Taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. Renting a bicycle is also a popular option, as Girona is a bike-friendly city with numerous cycling lanes and routes. For those looking to explore beyond the city, renting a car offers the flexibility to visit nearby attractions at your own pace.

The currency used in Girona is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are abundant throughout the city, allowing you to withdraw cash as needed. However, it is advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller establishments or local markets where card payments may not be accepted.

Girona is generally a safe city for tourists. However, it is always wise to take standard precautions. Be mindful of pickpockets, especially in crowded places like the train station and popular tourist spots. Avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas at night. The Old Town and the Jewish Quarter are safe to visit, but it is advisable to stay vigilant. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but always be aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This is the general emergency number for police, fire, and medical services in Spain. Girona has several hospitals and medical facilities that can provide urgent care. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are widely available, and many staff members speak English.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable clothing and footwear, especially if you plan to explore the historic Old Town with its cobblestone streets. Avoid overly casual attire when dining at upscale restaurants. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially when visiting religious sites. Cover your shoulders and knees when entering churches. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket when using public transport. Don’t eat or drink on buses. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Hola' or 'Bon dia' (in Catalan). A handshake is common in formal settings. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and tapas. Don’t rush your meal; dining in Girona is a leisurely affair.

To experience Girona like a local, visit the Mercat del Lleo market, where you can buy fresh produce and sample local delicacies. Take a stroll along the Onyar River to admire the colorful facades of the houses. Engage with locals; they are friendly and often willing to share tips about hidden gems in the city. Don’t miss the Girona Flower Festival in May, when the city is adorned with stunning floral displays. For a unique experience, explore the medieval city walls for panoramic views of Girona.