The Citadel

(4th century BC – 19th century)

Cultural Asset of National Interest

The walk around the site of La Ciutadella is essential for anyone visiting Roses. Declared a historical and artistic centre in 1961, the citadel contains vestiges of various occupations of the last thirteen centuries. The military fortification, with its monumental Sea Gate, is a Renaissance-style enclosure of 131,480 m² built in 1543.

The important archaeological site which lies within the fortification consists of :

- The remains of the Hellenistic district within the Greek settlement of Rhode, which enjoyed its period of greatest prosperity in the 4th and 3rd century BC

- The Roman villa, dating back to 2nd century BC and 6th century AD.

- The paleochristian necropolis.

- Several Visigothic remains.

- The Lombard Romanesque monastery of Santa Maria, dating back to the 11th century and the remains of the fortified medieval town.

- The remains of several military buildings dating back to 16th century.

- The Museum which provides an insight into the history and heritage of Roses, from prehistory to modern times.

- The Exhibition Hall.

A guided tour of the Citadel is a history master class concentrated in a unique area of seventeen hectares where you can enjoy a complete itinerary, totally signposted including a lot of information.

The Ciutadella de Roses cultural venue offers family and cultural activities all year round. Check the schedule by clicking here. 

Timetables:

October to March - Tuesday to Saturday 10am to 5pm and Sundays 10am to 2pm. Public holiday 10am to 2pm. Closed on Mondays

Easter - 10am to 8pm (March 28 to April 6 2026)

April and May - Tuesday to Sunday 10am to 8pm. Closed on Mondays

June and September 10am to 8pm

July and August 10am to 9pm

Open all year except December 25th and 26th and January 1st and 6th.

General admission price: € 4.90

Reduced ticket price: € 3.20

Guided tour price: €5