The building was constructed in 1194, long after the Christian reconquest of Girona.
The bathhouse functioned as a public facility for less than 200 years before being converted into the Convent of the Capuchins.
The iconic central dome lantern is a later addition, built in the 17th century to provide light to the then-closed off room.
The structure remained in private hands under the Capuchin nuns until the late 19th century.
It has served as a filming location for major productions, including the series Game of Thrones.
The Arab Baths of Girona are a 12th-century structure designed in the Romanesque style, modeled after Muslim bath traditions. Despite their name, they were built by Christian rulers long after the Moorish period in the region. The site features a series of chambers including the apodyterium, frigidarium, tepidarium, and caldarium. The entrance hall, or apodyterium, is particularly noted for its central octagonal pool and eight slender columns with ornate capitals. Light filters through a central lantern dome, illuminating the original stone flooring and vaulted ceilings. The site served as a public bathhouse until the 14th century, after which it was repurposed by a convent. It is now a well-preserved archaeological site accessible for self-guided exploration. The architectural layout reflects the influence of North African thermal bath designs adapted for European construction methods.
The view of the octagonal pool looking up through the central dome columns.
Use the provided information placards to understand the specific function of each room.
Visit during the shoulder seasons to avoid the crowds that gather in the narrow passages during mid-summer.
Wear comfortable walking shoes as the original stone floors are uneven.
Do not rush through the rooms; the architecture is best appreciated by observing the light transitions in the central chamber.
Open daily, but hours may be reduced during winter months.
