Sitges: The Charming Seaside Town of Spain
Located just a short drive from the bustling city of Barcelona in Spain, Sitges is a small and charming resort town that has long been known as a popular destination for travelers seeking a relaxing seaside escape. With its whitewashed Mediterranean houses, magnificent St. Bartomeu church, maze of cobblestone alleyways, and breezy seaside promenade lined with palm trees and al fresco restaurants, it’s easy to see why this town has captured the hearts of so many visitors.
Interestingly enough, Sitges has also stolen the hearts of some famous names, including Japanese film director Takashi Miike. He fell in love with the town’s unique charm while visiting the internationally renowned Sitges Film Festival and decided to film his movie, JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Diamond is Unbreakable (2017), in Sitges.
But what truly sets Sitges apart from other picturesque seaside towns is its feline inhabitants. The cats of Sitges are iconic and have become a must-see attraction for many visitors.
There used to be a time when Sitges was teeming with cats. They roamed the streets, hung out at the cemetery, took up residence in restaurants, and even visited cinemas. However, the number of stray cats has dwindled over the years, which is ultimately a good thing because some of them were in really bad shape.
Nowadays, the cats of Sitges are protected. Several organizations and volunteers feed the strays daily, and some cats are being taken from the streets and given a chance at life, while others are being sterilized through a Trap-Neuter-Return system to prevent the stray cat population from growing even more. You may also notice food bowls and cat houses sprinkled throughout the town. These are not only a sign of love and support for the cats but also a reminder of the town’s unique identity.
So where can you find these famous felines? A good place to start is on and near the breakwater next to the Club Náutica. Situated in front of the landmark Church of St. Bartomeu and the Siren of Sitges, this area is a hub of activity, with vendors selling jewelry and handbags, as well as being a gateway into the old town and the waterfront boulevard.
Some of the cats will gladly cuddle, while others may run away and hide underneath the stones of the breakwater. But whether you’re a cat lover or not, it’s undeniable that the cats of Sitges add to the town’s unique and charming character.
Plus, even without the cats, there’s plenty to see and do in Sitges. From exploring the old town and its historic landmarks to strolling along the waterfront promenade and sampling some of the town’s excellent cuisine, there’s something for everyone here.
And if you’re a lover of art, history, or natural beauty, Sitges will not disappoint. With numerous museums, galleries, and parks to explore, you’re sure to find something to suit your interests.
So what are you waiting for? If you’re looking for a relaxing and unique seaside getaway, be sure to add Sitges to your travel itinerary. With its iconic cats, historic landmarks, and stunning natural beauty, it’s easy to see why this charming town continues to capture the hearts of visitors from around the world.
