In the tranquil town of Púbol, in the heart of the Baix Empordà region (Girona), stands the Castell de Púbol de Gala y Dalí, a medieval castle restored by Salvador Dalí as an exclusive gift for his muse, wife, and great love: Gala. This castle is not only an architectural gem but also a profound symbol of their relationship. It forms an essential part of the Dalí Triangle, along with the Dalí Theatre-Museum in Figueres and the Dalí House in Portlligat, and is one of the most personal and poetic destinations in the entire Dalí universe.
History of the Castell de Púbol by Gala and Dalí
Gala and Dalí’s Castell de Púbol was originally built in the 11th century and underwent numerous renovations over the centuries. When Dalí bought it in 1969, the castle was almost in ruins. With great care, respecting its austere, medieval character, Dalí restored and artistically transformed it, decorating the spaces with antique furniture, murals he painted himself, sculptures, and symbolic objects. However, the most significant aspect was that the castle was not inhabited by him, but by Gala.
Gala and Dalí’s relationship
Dalí transformed this castle into a sanctuary dedicated to Gala. She lived there in her own way, alone, surrounded by a romantic and melancholic atmosphere. Dalí, by his own choice, could only visit her if she authorized him with a written invitation. This eccentricity reflects the almost devotional cult the artist felt for her. After her death in 1982, Gala was buried in the castle’s crypt, designed by Dalí so that one day they could rest together. However, after a fire at his last residence, the artist was finally buried in the Dalí Museum in Figueres.
What to see at Gala and Dalí’s Castell de Púbol
During your visit you can explore spaces that preserve the intimate and symbolic atmosphere of the place:
- Elegantly decorated dressing rooms and gala rooms.
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The workshop with murals painted by Dalí.
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Original furniture acquired from antique shops by the artist himself.
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The surrealist garden, with sculptures of long-legged elephants.
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Gala’s crypt, a solemn and very personal space.
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A collection of Gala’s dresses and personal items.
Where is the Castell de Púbol of Gala and Dalí?
The castle is located in the village of Púbol, within the municipality of La Pera (province of Girona), a beautiful rural area, ideal for completing a cultural tour of Dalí’s legacy. It is common to combine this visit with Figueres, home to the Dalí Museum, and Cadaqués, where his house in Portlligat is located.
How to get to the Castell de Púbol of Gala and Dalí
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By car from Barcelona: Approximately 1h 30 min (130 km) via the AP-7.
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From Girona or Figueres: It can also be easily accessed by car or taxi.
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By train + taxi: Take the train to Flaçà and then a taxi to Púbol (about 10-15 minutes).
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On an organized tour: Many opt for a private Dalí tour from Barcelona that includes transportation, tickets and an expert guide.
Interesting facts
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Gala lived alone in the castle: Dalí could only visit if she invited him.
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The castle’s decoration is deliberately understated, in contrast to Portlligat.
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The thin-legged elephants in the garden symbolize the dreamlike and the sacred.
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Although the crypt was intended for both of them, Dalí was not buried there.
