Tossa de Mar is a must-stop for sailors on Costa Brava. This quiet town is known for its picturesque beaches, pine forests, and rich history. From ancient Roman artifacts to medieval fortresses, the town holds many historical treasures. In the 20th century, it became a haven for avant-garde artists and now attracts tourists from all over the world with its culture and natural beauty.
Tossa de Mar is a beautiful spot on Costa Brava, where a quiet town lies between the mountains and the sea. About 7,000 people live here, enjoying picturesque beaches with crystal-clear waters. However, during the summer season, hundreds of thousands of tourists from all over the world visit! The mountains surrounding Tossa are adorned with pine forests, creating an atmosphere of calm and serenity. This area has inspired people since the times of the ancient Iberians.
In ancient times, during the 1st century BC, the great Romans arrived in this land with epic enthusiasm, establishing the colony of Turissa. Archaeological studies in the mysterious area called "Roman Villas" on Avenida del Pelegrí 5-13 revealed the greatness of ancient artifacts, including mosaics and sculptures, which are now housed in the Municipal Museum of Tossa.
In the medieval era, Tossa de Mar stood as an impregnable fortress known as "Tursa." In 966, the city passed into the possession of the Ripoll Abbey from the hands of the Count of Barcelona, Miró. In the 12th century, a church was built on the hill of Guardi, and nearby stood the stronghold of Vila Vella.
The Mauritanian prison, part of the fortress citadel, served as a bastion against attacks from sea pirates. Over time, the fortress was repeatedly remodeled and reinforced. At the peak of the mountain, the El Faro de Tossa lighthouse was erected and began operation in 1917.
In the 19th century, the main industries in Tossa were fishing, grape growing, and the production of wine bottle corks. However, due to a lack of job opportunities, many locals emigrated to the United States. In the early 20th century, the town became attractive to avant-garde artists.
In the 1930s, this land became an unusual capital of bold creativity, attracting renowned artists, including Marc Chagall, who called Tossa "an azure paradise" and "a sea flower." His painting The Angelic Violinist, given to the town, hangs in the City Museum, founded in 1935.
Since the second half of the 20th century, Tossa de Mar has turned into a picturesque point on the tourism map. In 1989, the town became a pioneer in Spain by rejecting bullfighting and earning the prestigious title of "City Against the Bloody Spectacle of Bulls."
Today, Tossa de Mar is a place where abundant history, creative inspiration, and natural beauty come together. The winding, stony pathways that preserve the medieval spirit, as well as modern neighborhoods located outside the old fortress walls, attract travelers from all corners of the world. The town offers countless opportunities for leisure, from exploring historical sites to enjoying beach pleasures and local culinary delights in cozy dining establishments.
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