Visits to 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.