Culture of Tossa de Mar. Places to visit - old town, temples, theaters, museums and palaces

Vila Vella remains the main historical symbol of Tossa de Mar. This fortress is the only stronghold on the Costa Brava that has survived till our days. The name of the fortress means the “Old Town” (Old Town). It was built at the beginning of the 12th century and was successfully protecting the coastline from the pirates and other conquerors for several centuries. Behind the thick walls of the remarkable fortress, visitors will find many interesting constructions. There are houses of local fishermen and even a small church. Local people carefully restored all buildings in the Old Town, but many fragments of the protective walls are still in ruins.

Fans of art are well-aware of Tossa de Mar because of the Marc Chagall Museum that is open in this town. Breathtaking sea landscapes become the inspiration for many works of the great artist. The exhibition of the museum is open in the territory of the old fortress – it was decided to open it in a restored old tower. Many of the works exhibited were created during the time when Chagall stayed at this resort. Besides priceless paintings, the museum exhibits a collection of archaeological artifacts – mosaics, artworks, and antique household items of local people.

Vila Vella is not the only architectural landmark of the town. Travelers should pay their attention to Casa de Governador . It is a classic landmark of the late gothic style. The first extensive restoration of the house started yet in the 18th century. Within last 200 years, the building has significantly changed its look but hasn’t lost a tiny bit of its historical charm. The classy house with the picturesque adjacent territory is the location of one more wonderful museum - The Municipal Museum that exhibits a rich collection of priceless artworks, the age of some of which is more than a thousand years. Visitors will be pleased to see beautiful statues of Mercury and Apollo made of marble, ancient bronze artifacts, paintings by outstanding artists, and an interesting collection of antique coins. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Església de Sant Vincent Church is one of the major religious landmarks of the small town. It is located inside the fortress. Initially, the church was built during the early Middle Ages. In the 19th century, it was almost completely destroyed during a fortress siege. Local people managed to restore the religious symbol. They also built several beautiful houses from the remaining stones. Everyone is allowed to enter the church and admire the magnificent design of the interior. There is also a charming small chapel nearby. Just like many years ago, it’s possible to buy candles there. It is important to mention that the territory near the church is no less beautiful. There is a picturesque park with benches.

Camino de la Luz lighthouse is one of the most symbolic landmarks of the seaside town. Despite the fact that it was built relatively not long ago, in 1917, local people consider it one of the most important national symbols. There is an interesting thematic museum, Museo del Far de Tossa , open in the lighthouse. The exhibition of the museum is dedicated to the history of Mediterranean lighthouses and sailing. Having looked at the items exhibited, visitors of the lighthouse can relax in the nearby restaurant and try delicious fish dishes. Finally, the observation deck on the top of the lighthouse is the best place to admire the panoramic view of the coast.