Discover Sant Pol De Mar

Sant Pol De Mar brings together architectural history, art, recurring festivals and maritime themes, each with different connections to the coast. These interests can help determine when you travel and what you focus on during your stay: a festival date, a seasonal offering or a particular connection to the beach each adds a different emphasis. The following themes can help you tailor your search to what interests you locally.

Architectural History and Art

The Church of Sant Pau dates back to the 11th century and also preserves architectural elements from the 6th and 10th centuries. Several periods of history therefore come together in one building: the century in which the church originated differs from the dates of its older surviving parts. Sant Pol De Mar’s architectural heritage includes maritime, Romanesque, Neoclassical, Modernist, Noucentista and contemporary architecture. Can Planiol is an example of Modernist architecture in the town.

The houses from the Indiano period are also part of this history. Residents who returned from America at the time had houses built in Sant Pol De Mar as symbols of the prosperity they had acquired through their travels. This theme connects a specific architectural style with the history of those who returned; it adds a perspective on the life journeys associated with these houses to the town’s architectural diversity.

The Museu de Pintura de Sant Pol de Mar has around 200 works and presents or stages four exhibitions a year. It also offers multidisciplinary cultural activities, including talks, guided tours with commentary, children’s workshops and concerts. Exhibition and event dates may change, so check the museum’s current program before your trip.

Festivals and Dates Throughout the Year

The Fira de Sant Pau takes place on January 25 and has medieval origins. The Marxa de Sant Pau takes place on the Sunday after Sant Pau, as part of the Sant Pau celebrations. These two dates have different points of reference: the Fira is tied to a fixed date, while the Marxa is scheduled for the Sunday following Sant Pau.

The spring program includes the gastronomic Fira de la Maduixa and a Mostra Gastronòmica. Another notable festival date is July 25, when the Festa Major de Sant Jaume is celebrated with fireworks, dances, and cultural and festive activities; the program also includes the Fira d’Art de Sant Jaume. If you’re planning your trip around any of these dates, it’s a good idea to check the current event schedule in advance.

Maritime Themes and Guided Tours

The guided tour El Sant Pol dels Pescadors is offered in July, August and September. It visits various places connected with maritime activities and former fishermen. Firamar also has a maritime focus: its program includes demonstrations of maritime crafts, stalls selling handmade products, talks and themed conferences, as well as a guided route. For seasonal tours and the annual Firamar program, check the current dates before your trip.

Stage 3 of the Via Marina on the Way of St James also passes through Sant Pol De Mar. When planning a hike, distinguish this route from the guided visits focused on maritime themes. Route conditions and signage may change, so check the latest information. There is also a sailing club close to Platja de les Barques.

Beaches and Their Different Features

The beach descriptions highlight different points of reference. Platja de la Murtra is close to a protected area for great cormorants. La Platjola is sheltered by the La Punta promenade and is close to the town center. Playa de Sant Pol is an urban beach next to the town center and the parking area. The three beaches therefore each have a different distinguishing feature: the protected area at Murtra, the promenade and proximity to town at La Platjola, and Playa de Sant Pol’s status as an urban beach and its location by the parking area.

For further information about beaches, nature, culture, heritage, sports and other visitor services, contact the Sant Pol De Mar tourist information office, which also offers guided tours. If you’re interested in a particular tour or seasonal offering, check the current dates before your visit.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: La Quar, La Pobla De Claramunt, Calonge De Segarra, Mosqueroles, Vilanova De Sau, Perafita, Torelló, Cerdanyola Del Valles.

For the wider travel overview: Barcelona.