Sant Pere de Galligants, Girona

Historic Building, Monastery and Museum in Girona

Cloisters in Sant Pere de Galligants
Sant Pere de Galligants

Sant Pere de Galligants is a beautifully preserved Romanesque monastery in Girona, Spain, best known today as the home of the Archaeology Museum of Catalonia (Girona). Tucked into the historic core near the old city's stone lanes, it's the kind of place that feels instantly calm: thick walls, cool interiors, and a cloister that rewards slow looking.

It's an easy add-on to a Girona walking tour, especially if you're already exploring the Old Town and want a quieter, more contemplative stop between bigger sights. For the best experience, aim to see the cloister up close and then step outside to admire the distinctive octagonal bell tower from the surrounding streets.

History and Significance of the Sant Pere de Galligants

Sant Pere de Galligants dates to the Romanesque period and is closely associated with medieval monastic life in Girona. While the site's story stretches across centuries, what visitors feel most today is the architectural confidence of the 12th-century complex: solid proportions, carved stone details, and a layout designed around the rhythm of cloistered life.

Over time, the monastery’s role shifted, and the building eventually became a cultural venue rather than an active church. Today it functions as a museum setting, which means you can experience the monastery’s spaces as you move through exhibits, rather than viewing it only from the outside.

Its significance for travelers is twofold: it's a key Romanesque monument in Girona, and it's also one of the most atmospheric places in the city to understand how architecture, religion, and daily life intertwined in medieval Catalonia.

Things to See and Do in the Sant Pere de Galligants

The star attraction is the cloister. Even if you’re only mildly interested in museum displays, the cloister’s arcades and carved capitals make the visit worthwhile, and it’s an ideal spot to slow down after the busier streets of the Old Town.

Inside, the museum context adds another layer: archaeological materials and interpretive displays help connect Girona and its region to broader timelines, from prehistory through the medieval era. Many visitors come primarily for the building itself, treating the exhibits as a bonus rather than the main event.

Don't miss the exterior views of the Lombard-style octagonal bell tower. It's one of the most recognizable silhouettes in this part of Girona, and it photographs beautifully in soft morning light or late afternoon when the stone warms in color.

How to Get to the Sant Pere de Galligants

The nearest major airports are Barcelona El Prat (BCN) and Girona–Costa Brava Airport (GRO). For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Girona on Booking.com.

From Barcelona, Girona is straightforward by train to Girona station, then you can walk, take a local bus, or grab a short taxi ride into the Old Town. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

If you're traveling by car, Girona is well connected by major highways, but parking is easier outside the tight historic center—plan to park in a garage and walk the last stretch. If you are looking to rent a car in Spain I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Sant Pere de Galligants

  • Official website: https://www.macgirona.cat/
  • Entrance fee: Adults: €6; Reduced: €4; Under 8: free.
  • Opening hours: (Summer) May 1 – September 30; Tuesday – Saturday: 10:00–19:00. Sunday: 10:00–14:00. Closed on Monday. (Winter) October 1 – April 30; Tuesday – Saturday: 10:00–18:00. Sunday: 10:00–14:00. Closed on Monday.
  • Best time to visit: Go early for a quieter cloister and softer light on the stonework, or visit mid-afternoon to pair it with nearby Old Town viewpoints.
  • How long to spend: Plan 45–90 minutes if you want to enjoy the cloister and browse exhibits at an unhurried pace.
  • Accessibility: Expect uneven historic surfaces and steps in parts of the complex; if you need step-free access, confirm current routes with staff before you go.
  • Facilities: You’ll typically find museum-style basics such as restrooms and a small shop area; the surrounding Old Town has plenty of cafés for breaks before or after.

Where to Stay Close to the Sant Pere de Galligants

Base yourself in Girona's Barri Vell (Old Town) for the most walkable, atmospheric stay near the city's historic sights.

Hotel Museu Llegendes de Girona A boutique option right in the historic core, ideal if you want to step out into medieval lanes and reach Sant Pere de Galligants on foot in minutes.

Hotel Nord 1901 A comfortable, well-located stay that balances Old Town access with an easy walk to shops and restaurants, great for travelers who want convenience without sacrificing charm.

Hotel Historic A small, character-rich choice that leans into the Old Town vibe—perfect if you want a stay that feels like part of the historic fabric.

Hotel Carlemany Girona A practical pick near the train station area for travelers arriving by rail who still want quick access to the Old Town by foot or taxi.

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Girona A modern, reliable option with familiar comforts, useful if you prefer contemporary rooms and easy logistics while sightseeing in Girona.

Is the Sant Pere de Galligants Worth Visiting?

Yes—especially if you appreciate Romanesque architecture or you’re looking for a calm, beautiful interior space in Girona’s Old Town. The cloister and the overall atmosphere deliver a strong sense of place, and the museum setting makes it easy to turn a quick look into a more meaningful visit.

Honest Pivot: If you're short on time and mainly want “big hits,” you might prioritize Girona Cathedral, the city walls, and the riverfront first, then come here only if you have extra time. Also, if you're expecting a large, blockbuster-style collection, the exhibits may feel modest compared with the building itself.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.7 (6)

Reviews are very positive overall, with visitors highlighting the 12th-century Romanesque monastery setting, the well-preserved cloister, and the distinctive octagonal bell tower. Several people note that the building itself is the main reason to go, while the archaeology displays can feel modest if you’re expecting standout artifacts. A small minority mention the collection isn’t especially striking, but still recommend visiting for the architecture and atmosphere.

Davinciviews
4 months ago
"The Monastery of Sant Pere de Galligants in Girona is an impressive 12th-century Romanesque building, a former Benedictine abbey that houses theArchaeological Museum of Catalonia-Girona. It stands out for its asymmetrical sanctuary, the octagonal Lombard-style bell tower, and, above all, for the rich Romanesque capitals of its cloister and church, decorated with biblical scenes and plant motifs. It houses the ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM. It was also a scene from Sam's Game of Thrones performance...."
Eva María Galán Sempere
2 weeks ago
"It's now the Archaeological Museum of Girona, but it doesn't have any particularly striking pieces. However, it does have a cloister worth seeing.It's not used as a church, but as a museum...."
Oriol De Batlle
5 months ago
"Current headquarters of the Archaeology Museum of Catalonia. For me the best part is simply being able to access the building and also being able toenjoy its cloister. It is a magnificent Romanesque building and if you can access it is highly recommended, as I said, for the building itself, not so much for the museum's exhibits, from my humble point of view...."

For Different Travelers

Sant Pere de Galligants fits neatly into many Girona itineraries because it's compact, central, and visually memorable. The experience can be tailored: some visitors come for a quick architectural stop, while others linger to absorb the museum context.

Families with Kids

Kids who enjoy exploring stone corridors and courtyards often respond well to the “monastery feel,” especially the cloister’s repeating arches and carvings. It’s a manageable size, which helps keep the visit from becoming tiring.

To keep it engaging, treat it like a short discovery mission: spot carved details, compare column styles, and then reward everyone with a snack break nearby in the Old Town.

Couples & Romantic Getaways

For couples, the appeal is the quiet beauty: the cloister is one of Girona’s most serene spaces, and it’s easy to pair with a slow walk through Barri Vell afterward. The stone textures and soft light make it feel intimate without being overly “touristy.”

Plan it as a gentle interlude between bigger sights, then continue to a viewpoint or a riverside stroll for a well-paced, romantic half-day.

Budget Travelers

This is a strong value stop if you want a meaningful historic interior without committing to a full day of paid attractions. Even a short visit can feel substantial because the architecture does so much of the work.

Budget tip: build a walking loop that includes free highlights nearby (old streets, viewpoints, and exterior monuments), then use Sant Pere de Galligants as your one paid “anchor” visit.

History Buffs

History lovers will appreciate how the building itself is a primary artifact: Romanesque design choices, monastic layout, and sculpted stone details all tell a story. The museum context helps connect the site to Girona’s wider archaeological timeline.

To deepen the visit, go slowly through the architectural transitions between spaces and use the exhibits to place the monastery within the region’s long arc from prehistory to medieval life.

FAQs for Visiting Sant Pere de Galligants

Getting There

Yes, it’s within the historic center and is easiest reached on foot through Barri Vell. Wear comfortable shoes because streets can be steep or uneven.
It’s a reasonable walk, but the route climbs into the Old Town. If you prefer, take a short taxi ride and save your energy for exploring.
Yes, it fits naturally into Old Town walking routes. Many visitors combine it with nearby medieval streets and viewpoints.

Tickets & Entry

Usually you can buy on arrival, but booking can help in peak periods or if you’re coordinating a tight itinerary. If you’re visiting on a holiday, double-check entry conditions.
Yes, reduced rates are commonly available for groups such as seniors, students, and youth. Bring documentation if you plan to use a reduced ticket.
There are occasional free-entry conditions for specific groups and certain dates. Confirm the current free-entry rules before you go.

Visiting Experience

It’s both: the building is the main draw for many people, and the museum exhibits add context. If you’re architecture-focused, you can still enjoy it even with a quick exhibit browse.
Head straight to the cloister and spend a few minutes taking in the carved details and proportions. Then do a quick pass through the most prominent interior spaces.
Often yes, especially outside peak hours. The cloister and thick stone walls create a calm atmosphere compared with the busier streets nearby.

Tours, Context & Itineraries

Pair it with Girona Cathedral, the city walls, and a stroll through the Jewish Quarter for a strong Old Town circuit. Add the riverfront bridges afterward for contrast.
If you’re especially interested in Romanesque architecture or medieval monastic life, a guide can add depth. Otherwise, a self-paced visit works well.
Yes, they’re close enough to combine comfortably. Start early, then leave time for a café break between sights.

Photography

Photography is typically allowed, but flash and tripods are often restricted. Be mindful of signage and other visitors.
The cloister is the standout for symmetry and detail shots. Outside, look for angles that frame the octagonal bell tower against the sky.
Morning and late afternoon tend to flatter the stone textures. Midday can be harsher, but works well for crisp architectural lines.

Accessibility & Facilities

Access can be challenging in historic buildings due to steps and uneven surfaces. Contact the site ahead of time to confirm current step-free routes.
As a museum venue, restrooms are typically available. It’s still smart to plan a café stop nearby if you want more options.
On-site storage may be limited. If you’re arriving by train, consider station-area luggage storage solutions before heading into the Old Town.

Food & Breaks Nearby

Yes, the surrounding Old Town has plenty of cafés and casual restaurants within a short walk. It’s easy to plan a break before or after.
Look for small squares and viewpoints in Barri Vell where you can pause briefly. Keep it tidy and respect residential areas.
Absolutely—this is a great “before lunch” stop. Afterward, head toward the cathedral area or down toward the river for more dining choices.

Safety & Timing

Girona’s historic center is generally safe and busy with visitors. As anywhere, keep an eye on belongings in crowded areas.
Early opening hours are usually calmest. Weekends and holidays tend to be busier.
Yes, holiday schedules can differ from regular hours. If you’re visiting around major holidays, confirm hours before you go.

Nearby Attractions to the Sant Pere de Galligants

  • Girona Cathedral: A monumental landmark with a dramatic staircase and one of the city's most iconic façades.
  • The Jewish Quarter (El Call): A maze of atmospheric medieval lanes that's ideal for slow wandering and photography.
  • Girona City Walls (Passeig de la Muralla): A scenic walk with viewpoints over rooftops and surrounding hills.
  • Sant Feliu Church: A historic church with a striking presence and a great stop while exploring the Old Town.
  • Onyar River Houses & Bridges: Colorful riverside views and classic Girona photo spots, especially around the main bridges.

The Sant Pere de Galligants appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Girona!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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Planning Your Visit

Hours:

(Summer) May 1 - September 30; Tuesday - Saturday: 10:00-19:00. Sunday: 10:00-14:00. Closed on Monday.

(Winter) October 1 - April 30; Tuesday - Saturday: 10:00-18:00. Sunday: 10:00-14:00. Closed on Monday.

Price:

Adults: €6; Reduced: €4; Under 8: free.

Address: 17007 Girona, Spain
Girona: 1 km
Official Website

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