View of Santa Coloma de Queralt (Tarragona, Catalonia)

Santa Coloma de Queralt

Tarragona

It is less than 40 kilometres from the city of Tarragona to Santa Coloma de Queralt, on the Costa Daurada. Its historic quarter has been declared a Property of Cultural Interest. The historic part of Santa Coloma de Queralt is a medieval city centre with remarkable monuments.

Four gates remain from the old walled complex, as well as the two squares lined with arcades: The Plaça Major and the Plaça de l'Església. Notable sites include the Comtes Castle, with its great keep and entrance hall; the Casa de la Villa, now the Town Hall; the Jewish quarter and the Gothic Parish Church of Santa Maria, which has a monumental 17th-century bell tower and a beautiful 14th-century alabaster altarpiece. Also made of alabaster is the impressive sepulchre of the Counts of Queralt, dating from 1370, housed in the Church of Santa Maria de Bell-lloc, built in a style that shows a transition from Romanesque to Gothic. Near this monument is the Fuente de les Canelles, which has eight spouts and was made in the 17th century. Next to it, you can also see a Gothic cross.The town is also a good starting point for excursions such as a tour of the wonders of Conca de Barberà, as well as different themed routes like the Cistercian Route.