We Cross The Fabulous And Artistic Cap De Creus

Cap de Creus is the easternmost point of the Iberian Peninsula, a beautiful place bathed by the Mediterranean Sea. Natural park since 1998, its wealth is not only on the surface, but also in its waters, hence it is a great destination for nature lovers. And also for those who appreciate art, since it was an inspiration for many artists.

Knowing Cape Creus

Cap de Creus, at the end of which there is a lighthouse, is located on a small mountainous peninsula. It is a ledge composed mainly of slate and continuously cut by small coves and bays. It has a unique flora and fauna, hence it enjoys great protection.

Research concludes that the first settlements date back to Prehistory. In fact, the area is dotted with various remains of dolmens. There are even marked itineraries that allow you to discover them.

In the natural park of Cap de Creus is Cadaqués, and further north is, at the end of the cape, the Port de la Selva. There is also an interesting architectural heritage, magnificently represented by the medieval monastery of San Pedro de Rodas.

The strength and beauty of Cap de Creus has been a source of inspiration for writers and artists. From Salvador Dalí to the poet Carles Fages de Climent have succumbed to the charms of the area. If the power of nature has been able to seduce countless artists in such a way, will it be able to do it with you?

What to see at Cap de Creus?

Although Cadaqués is the best known place in the area, for its white houses and long beaches, Cap de Creus is much wider and offers the possibility of living an unrepeatable experience. Inside the park there are different points that deserve a visit. 

One of the first buildings that we glimpse upon arrival is an imposing lighthouse.  This lighthouse was built in 1853 on the site of an old watchtower. Although it has been in operation since it was built, during the Civil War it was turned off by order of the military authorities to prevent possible attacks.

San Pedro de Roda

At the entrance to Cap de Creus we find the monastery of San Pedro de Roda, at the foot of the Verdera mountain. The time of its construction is unknown, although there are theories that speak that it is related to the arrival of some relics of Saint Peter the Apostle arrived from Rome.

The monastery is built on terraces and is organized around a cloister. Its Romanesque church, consecrated in 1022, and two towers stand out: one defensive and the other in Lombard style that served as a bell tower.

Artists Inspiration

The highlight of Cap de Creus this place are the spectacular views of the cliffs. Rocky outcrops that the north wind that blows from the north, along with the strong waves, have been shaping to create strange shapes over the years.

Precisely, some of these rocks are associated with animal forms, such as the eagle of Tudela, the lion of Cap Gros or the rock of the cove of Cullaré, which, apparently, inspired Dalí to create one of his great works: The great masturbator . In this work all the obsessions of the author are portrayed.

The main element of the painting is a bust of a woman, which is mixed with the rocks of the Costa Brava. This painting has the characteristics of all his surrealist painting. It has a balanced unit, despite the large number of elements it presents.

Dalí was able to turn this point of the Iberian Peninsula into a surreal landscape. And you can enjoy Cap de Creus in a thousand different ways. You can visit it to admire its natural wealth, you can visit its villages or you can imitate those great artists and contemplate its beauty while waiting for inspiration for a poetry, a painting or a photograph.

Cover photo: Fèlix González / Flickr.com