Arenys de Mar

Description

On Costa del Maresme, between the Mediterranenan Sea and Barcelona`s Sierra Litoral, we find this traditional fishing town. Arenys de Mar, only a few kilometres away from Barcelona, exceptionally combines its artistic heritage with its beautiful beaches and many recreational activities. Its privileged location has made it an important fishing town since ancient times, as evidenced by the district that marks its origins: the 14th-century fisherman`s quarter. The wealth that fishing trade produced in the 16th century lead to the construction of more than ten defence towers. Among those still standing today, we can admire the towers of En Llobet and Carrer Ample. In the `Rambla`, the local nerve centre and a place of deep-rooted traditions, we find the church of Santa María. It has a Baroque façade, and its interior safeguards an incredible reredos that was made by Catalan artists. It is also worth visiting the Frederic Marés de la Punta Museum, one of the best in Europe on the theme of lace, and the Mollfulleda Mineralogy Museum. Modernist style, very common in Catalonia, is also present in Arenys de Mar. The Municipal Market and the cemetery, with modernist funerary sculptures, are two good examples. The promenade, on the shore of the Mediterranenan, the marina and fishing port, and Arenys Beach are also interesting spots where we can experience the daily life of people in this community. The arrival of fishing boats, fish auctions at the exchange, and the gorgeous yachts in the marina deserve the breathtaking sunsets they get over the waters of the Maresme. A wide variety of water sports complete the leisure options.