SPAIN - Europe by Eurail 2015: Touring Europe by Train - page 491

Tarragona is rich in antiquity. It was once considered a jewel in the crown of
the Roman Empire, with more than one-quarter of a million inhabitants (more
than twice the current population) enjoying all the privileges of Rome. Tarragona's
enormous stone walls were constructed in the first century B.C. As with the great
pyramids of Egypt, modern engineers still wonder how the ancient Iberians could
position such massive blocks of stone. Its attractive seascape of azure water, gold-
colored beaches, and flower-laden cliffs has attracted visitors for centuries.
St. Paul supposedly preached at the site of Tarragona's 12th-century cathedral,
where a Roman temple to Jupiter once stood. Illustrations of his life are exhibited
in the altar area.
A visit to the Archeological Museum is a journey into Tarragona's rich past,
from Roman remains to reflecting the peoples who followed, including Visigoths,
Moors, and Catalans. The penetrating stare of Medusa's eyes, cornices from the
TempleofJupiter (where the cathedral now stands), and age-old ceramics are on
view. The museum operates on seasonal hours. Check with the tourist information
office.
Hungry? While you're in the tourist office, ask for directions to the BufetelTiberi
Restaurant at 5, Marti d'Ardenya, or the Restaurant el Celler and Restaurant el
Trull. All three feature local specialties.