This 2nd-century Roman temple is one of the main sights in one of central Catalonia's most important cities (pop. 42,000). Vic conserves its magnificent old quarter, centered around a handsome, arcade-lined Plaça Major (main square) - one of Catalonia's finest - with its 14th-century Gothic city hall. In addition to the temple and the ancient houses both humble and stately, check out the excellent museum of medieval art; 18th-century neoclassical Sant Pere Cathedral; the 12th-century Episcopal Palace, and a well preserved 2nd-century Roman temple (pictured here). Vic is also known for its eating (a particular local speciality being cured ham). It's about an hour from Barcelona and Girona.


David Paul Appell