Figueres

Capital of the Comarca district of Alt Empordà in Girona province, Figueres is situated at an elevation of 39 meters from the sea level. With an area close to 19 square kilomters, the population in this capital city, as per 2006 census, is 39,641. The city has a moderate population density with 1761 person living in per square kilometer of this city. The population in this city has been increasing since 1900. Inhabited by only 10,922 people; Figueres’ population reached 14,362 in 1930. The middle of 1900 had around 16, 841 people. With a consistent population growth, the 2002 census registered 33,064 inhabitants belonging to this city.

The town of Figueres is the birthplace of one of the most talented Spanish artists, Salvador Dali. Born on 11th May, 1904; Dali was one of the most recognized and influential artists of the twentieth century. Salvador Dali is considered to be the one of the important artists of the surrealist culture. Together with famous Spanish film director, Louis Bunuel; Dali created one of the finest films which is representative of the art of Surrealism. Considered as the most vivid example of this genre, Un-chien-de-lou rocked film lovers with unusual treatment of the plot. With surreal hallmarks like bizarre but thoughtful imagery, Dali and Bunuel were able to shake film lovers from the stupor. More known for his paintings, the best work of Dali is undoubtedly “The Persistence of Memory”. This talented artist was however criticized from time to time because of his bizarre behaviors. Often termed as publicity stunt, Dali however silenced his critics with his great art works. This multi faceted personality died on January 23, 1989.

Once home to such a towering personality, the town of Figueres has a large museum dedicated to this great talent. Designed by Dali himself, the Teatre-Museu Gala Salvador Dalí houses almost all the famous works of Salvador Dali. The town was also the birthplace of Narcís Monturiol i Estarriol. This talented genius is credited with the invention of first combustion powered submarine.