The Ruins of Empúries: A Journey into Ancient Greece and Rome from L’Escala

Just a few minutes from L’Escala lies one of Catalonia’s most fascinating historical sites: the Ruins of Empúries. Their privileged location overlooking the Mediterranean makes it possible to combine culture, beautiful scenery and the beach in a perfect holiday excursion.

Empúries is the only archaeological site on the Iberian Peninsula where the remains of a Greek city and a Roman city can be visited in the same complex. It offers a remarkable journey through more than ten centuries of history in one of the most beautiful settings on the Costa Brava.

A BRIEF HISTORY

The first Greeks arrived on this coast in the 6th century BC and established a trading settlement called Emporion, a word meaning “market” or “trading place”.

Over time, the settlement grew and became an important centre of trade between Mediterranean peoples and the local Iberian communities.

In 218 BC, during the Second Punic War, Roman troops landed at Empúries to begin their advance across the Iberian Peninsula. The Roman city of Emporiae was later built beside the original Greek settlement.

WHAT CAN YOU SEE DURING THE VISIT?

The route takes you along the ancient streets and reveals how people lived here more than two thousand years ago.

Highlights of the Greek city include:

• The Agora, the former public square and centre of civic life.

• The remains of the port and several homes.

• The sanctuary dedicated to Asclepius, the Greek god of medicine.

• The facilities where preserved fish and fish sauces were produced.

• Ancient floors and Greek inscriptions.

In the Roman city, you can discover:

• The Forum, the political, religious and commercial centre.

• The remains of the Basilica and the Curia.

• The public baths.

• The tabernae, the small shops of the period.

• Large Roman houses, some decorated with magnificent mosaics.

• Part of the defensive wall that once protected the city.

Halfway around the route, you will find the archaeological museum. It displays objects uncovered during the excavations, together with the original statue of Asclepius, one of the most emblematic pieces found at Empúries.

WHY VISIT EMPÚRIES DURING YOUR HOLIDAY IN L’ESCALA?

One of its greatest advantages is its proximity to L’Escala. The archaeological site is easy to reach by car, bicycle or even on foot along the seafront.

The promenade connecting the centre of L’Escala with Empúries passes several of the area’s most pleasant beaches and offers beautiful views across the Gulf of Roses. The journey therefore becomes an enjoyable part of the experience.

The visit is suitable for couples, families and groups of friends. You do not need to be a history expert: the route is visual, enjoyable and easy to follow. Children can also have fun imagining the houses, shops and streets of these ancient cities.

Empúries is also an excellent cultural activity to combine with days at the beach or to enjoy on a morning when the temperatures are cooler.

A VISIT COMBINING HISTORY, SEA AND NATURE

Few archaeological sites enjoy such a special setting. The ruins are surrounded by pine trees and open towards the Mediterranean, with the sea providing a spectacular backdrop for much of the route.

After your visit, you can walk down to Moll Grec beach, where part of the ancient breakwater associated with the port of Empúries can still be seen. You can also continue walking to the small medieval village of Sant Martí d’Empúries, situated beside the sea.

Sant Martí is the perfect place to wander through charming streets, admire its church and finish your excursion with a drink or a meal on one of its terraces.

A HALF-DAY ITINERARY

A good option is to leave L’Escala in the morning and follow the seafront promenade towards Empúries.

• Walk from L’Escala along the beaches.

• Visit the archaeological site and museum.

• Swim or relax at Moll Grec beach.

• Walk to Sant Martí d’Empúries.

• Enjoy lunch or an aperitif on one of its terraces.

• Return to L’Escala on foot, by bicycle or by car.

A visit to the archaeological site usually takes between one and a half and two hours. If you combine it with the beaches and Sant Martí d’Empúries, allow a full morning or afternoon.

PRACTICAL ADVICE

• During the summer, it is best to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

• Wear comfortable shoes and take water, sun protection and a hat.

• Much of the route is outdoors, with only a limited number of shaded areas.

• Check the latest opening times and admission prices before visiting.

• To gain a better understanding of the site’s history, use the audio guide or book a guided tour.

• During the high season, it is advisable to plan your visit in advance.

• If you are walking from L’Escala, remember to take your swimsuit so you can finish the excursion with a refreshing swim.

AN ESSENTIAL COSTA BRAVA EXPERIENCE

Staying in L’Escala allows you to discover Empúries without making a long journey. A single excursion combines archaeology, Mediterranean scenery, beaches and local cuisine.

The Ruins of Empúries are much more than a collection of ancient stones. They are the setting where Greeks and Romans once lived, traded and left a legacy that can still be explored today beside the sea.

It is an essential visit for anyone wishing to understand the history of L’Escala and make their holiday an even more memorable experience.