Few castles in Catalonia enjoy as dramatic a setting as Tamarit, which sits on a rocky promontory jutting into the Mediterranean between Tarragona and Altafulla. The combination of Romanesque towers, golden stone walls, and the turquoise sea below makes it one of the most photographed castles in the region.
The castle’s origins lie in the 10th century, when Christian lords built fortifications here to defend the newly reconquered coastline. The current structure dates mainly from the 11th and 12th centuries, including the well-preserved keep and the exquisite Romanesque chapel of Santa Maria, which retains its original apse and decorative corbels — a rare survival for a coastal castle that endured centuries of naval raids.
During the medieval period Tamarit changed hands many times between noble families. It was besieged during the Catalan Revolt of 1640 and suffered further damage in subsequent conflicts. In the early 20th century it was purchased by the Güell family (patrons of Antoni Gaudí) who undertook a sensitive restoration. Today it remains private property but the exterior walls and the beach below are freely accessible.
The castle is a popular backdrop for weddings and cultural events, and the small cala (cove) at its base is one of the most sheltered swimming spots on the Costa Daurada.