Castelló d'Empúries (Catalan pronunciation: [kəstəˈʎo ðəmˈpuɾiəs]) is a town and municipality in the Alt Empordà in Girona, Catalonia, Spain. It lies 9 km east of Figueres.
Leave the town early and follow the quiet, paved bike path that threads along the coastline from the historic centre towards the fishing port of L'Estartit. The route offers intermittent glimpses of turquoise coves that are inaccessible by car, perfect for a quick dip or a picnic on the sand. Stop at a family‑run ciclovia bakery for a slice of “pa amb tomàquet” and a glass of vermut before heading back inland where the gentle rise of the foothills provides panoramic views of the Pyrenees. The loop can be comfortably completed in four to five hours, allowing time to linger over the medieval market square on the return.
The weekly market in Castelló d'Empúries is a living classroom for Catalan customs. Vendors greet shoppers with a firm handshake and a quick "Bon dia," and it is customary to sample a piece of fruit or a small pastry before deciding. If you are interested in the regional olive oil, ask the seller how the oil was pressed; many will happily explain the cold‑press method and even offer a tasting. Remember to bring small change, as many stalls do not accept cards, and a polite thank‑you in Catalan goes a long way.
While the broader Costa Brava enjoys a Mediterranean climate, Castelló d'Empúries sits in a micro‑zone where sea breezes temper summer heat, making evenings pleasantly cool even in July. This subtle difference means that a light jacket remains useful for late‑night meals at the town’s taverns, unlike the hotter inland towns of the interior. Conversely, winter mornings can be foggy, offering a soft, diffused light that photographers find ideal for capturing the town’s stone façades.
This article needs to be updated. Please help update this article to reflect recent events or newly available information. (April 2025) Municipality in Catalonia, SpainCastelló d'EmpúriesMunicipalitySanta Maria de Castelló FlagCoat of armsCastelló d'EmpúriesLocation in CataloniaShow map of Province of GironaCastelló d'EmpúriesCastelló d'Empúries (Catalonia)Show map of CataloniaCastelló d'EmpúriesCastelló d'Empúries (Spain)Show map of SpainCoordinates: 42°15′30″N 3°4′30″E / 42.25833°N 3.07500°E / 42.25833; 3.07500Country SpainCommunity CataloniaProvince GironaComarca Alt EmpordàGovernment • MayorAnna Massot i FontArea • Total42.3 km2 (16.3 sq mi)Population (2025-01-01) • Total12,201 • Density288/km2 (747/sq mi)Websitewww.castello.cat Castelló d'Empúries (Catalan pronunciation: [kəstəˈʎo ðəmˈpuɾiəs]) is a town and municipality in the Alt Empordà in Girona, Catalonia, Spain. It lies 9 km east of Figueres.
[edit] In 1079, Castelló d'Empúries became the capital of the Empúries county due to the previous capital, Sant Martí d'Empúries, being too easily sacked by pirates. The old town is somewhat dwarfed by the neighboring urbanisation of Empuriabrava, on the coastline of the Costa Brava.[citation needed]