Founded by the Greeks in the 6th century B.C., the coastal town was a notable commercial port during medieval and modern ages. Throughout the 20th century, Salou became an important European tourist attraction.

An interesting fact about Salou, Spain, is its deep historical connection to the 13th-century King James I of Aragon (Jaume I). In 1229, Salou served as the strategic gathering point for one of the most significant military expeditions in Mediterranean history: the conquest of Mallorca. A massive fleet of over 150 ships carrying thousands of soldiers set sail from the port of Salou to reclaim the Balearic Islands. Today, this event is commemorated by a towering monument on the "Passeig Jaume I," the city's main palm-lined promenade. Beyond its royal history, Salou is also unique because it is home to PortAventura World, one of Europe's largest theme parks, which features "Shambhala," a roller coaster that once held the record for being the tallest and fastest in Europe. This blend of medieval naval history and modern high-adrenaline tourism makes Salou a distinct destination on the Costa Dorada, transitioning from a historical gateway to the sea into a world-class center for family entertainment.