Welcome to the historical heart of Catalonia: Vic. This charming city, whose past dates back to Iberian and Roman times, offers a fascinating glimpse into the cultural and architectural evolution of the region. In this blog we will explore the origins of Vic, delving into the roots of its founding and the importance of the city in medieval times and its subsequent development.
We cannot talk about Vic without mentioning one of its most anticipated events: the Medieval Market. Every December, the city is transformed, recreating a medieval atmosphere that attracts thousands of visitors. This market not only offers handcrafted products and typical gastronomy, but also allows you to live an immersive experience thanks to its parades, falconry exhibitions, and street shows.
Join us on this journey through one of the jewels of Catalonia! We recommend you the low-cost and sustainable shared transfer services and private transfer services, that Shuttle2Sun puts at your disposal, to get to Barcelona and surroundings, from Barcelona airport, Barcelona port, Reus airport, Girona airport and AVE Camp de Tarragona train station. Remember that you can book your transfer up to 24 hours in advance.
Origins and evolution of Vic
Vic has a rich history dating back to Roman times, when it was known as Auso, a notable city within the Roman Empire. However, its origins date back even earlier, with Iberian vestiges that reflect the influence of the Ausetans in the area, who founded one of the first settlements in the area, Ausa, theoretically located at the site of L’Esquerda, in Roda de Ter, a few kilometers from the current municipality.
In the 9th century, after the Muslim invasion and subsequent reconquest, Vic was reorganized and became a center of great religious and cultural importance in Catalonia. During the High Middle Ages, Bishop Oliba, a key figure of the time, promoted the construction of ecclesiastical buildings and strengthened the power and influence of the city. This development positioned Vic as an epicenter of spirituality and politics in the region, attracting commercial and cultural activities.
Over the centuries, Vic continued to prosper and adapt. Its historic center still harbors vestiges of that prosperous medieval era, such as the imposing cathedral and the Plaza Major, landmarks that tell centuries of history in every stone. Over time, the city has been able to preserve and showcase its heritage, combining its historic past with a vibrant and dynamic present. This effort is reflected each year in events such as the Medieval Market, which celebrates its rich cultural heritage and attracts thousands of visitors.
With Shuttle2Sun‘s low-cost and sustainable shared transfer services and private transfer services, you can reach your destination from Barcelona airport, Barcelona port, Reus airport, Girona airport and Camp de Tarragona AVE train station.
The charming historic center of Vic
The historic center of Vic is a compendium of medieval, Roman and modern heritage that stands out for its architectural richness. The Cathedral of Vic, dedicated to St. Peter, combines Romanesque, Gothic, Baroque and neoclassical styles, and houses frescoes by Josep Maria Sert. Some of the elements of interest of this religious temple are the 17th century Lombard Romanesque bell tower; the crypt; and the Gothic cloister.
On the other hand, the Plaza Mayor, also known as Plaza del Mercadal, is the commercial and social heart of the city, famous for its market and surrounded by modernist and baroque houses.
Among other points of interest, the Albergueria served as a medieval inn and is now a cultural space. Also, the ramparts of Pere III, which offer a glimpse of the medieval fortification of Vic; as well as the Romanesque Queralt Bridge, which connects both sides of the city, separated by the river Mèder. The Roman Temple is also an exceptional vestige of Roman times, preserved within the city.
The Casa de la Ciudad, with a beautiful Renaissance façade, reflects the administrative importance of Vic, and the Church of Sant Just, one of the oldest, is famous for its Romanesque architecture. These monuments turn the old town into a route full of history and art, in a city where past and present coexist.
Vic Medieval Market
The Vic Medieval Market, to be held from December 6 to 8, is one of the most anticipated events in the city and one of the most important historical recreations in Catalonia. This market, which takes place in the historic district, takes visitors and locals to the splendor of the Middle Ages, with a setting that reproduces streets and squares with a unique medieval atmosphere. During these days, Vic is completely transformed: the main streets are filled with more than 300 crafts stalls, traditional products and food, where it is possible to buy from jewelry and ceramics to sausages and local cheeses.
In addition to the stalls, the market includes many period taverns and restaurants, where it is possible to enjoy medieval recipes and traditional dishes in an atmosphere that seems to be taken from the past. The atmosphere of the event is accompanied by numerous activities and shows, such as falconry exhibitions, demonstrations of ancient crafts, knight’s tournaments, fire shows and street plays.
Historical recreations and shows enliven the atmosphere, and workshops and interactive activities are organized so that children can also enjoy and learn about this era. Also, the actors and extras who walk through the streets dressed as damsels and knights, peasants, jesters and merchants, immerse visitors in the life and customs of medieval times.
Every year, thousands of visitors come to Vic attracted by this celebration, which has already become a reference in the Christmas calendar of the region and an unmissable event for those who want to experience the magic of the Middle Ages in the 21st century.
Remember that you can reach your destination with the low-cost and sustainable shared transfer services and private transfer services, offered by Shuttle2Sun, from Barcelona airport, the port of Barcelona, Reus airport, Girona airport and the AVE Camp de Tarragona train station. Remember that you can book your transfer up to 24 hours in advance.
