Castles of the Empordà region
In this little piece of the Costa Brava in which we find ourselves there are some hidden treasures that we would like to introduce to you. The Empordà region where the Hotel Vistabella is located is an area rich in landscapes, beaches, culture and gastronomy; but in addition to museums and nature reserves, there are some beautiful castles that are well worth a visit.
There are some beautiful castles in both the Alt and Baix Empordà regions, but we have made a selection of those that we think that are most likely to be visited because they are easily accessible from the hotel without requiring a long journey. Do you want to come?
Trinitat Castle - Roses
Located very close to the Roses lighthouse, about 60m above sea level, it relishes one of the most impressive views of the Gulf. The Trinitat Castle, recently restored, is a highly recommended visit during your stay with us as it is less than 1km from the hotel. This artillery fortress has the shape of a five-pointed star and dates from the year 1544, under the reign of Carlos I. It was built as a defense to the port and the coast of the bay. It has easy access and free parking.
More information: www.visitroses.cat
Requesens Castle - Cantallops
This magnificent feudal construction from 859 is located in a wooded area in the middle of the Serra de la Albera, very close to the French border. It was built under the command of Gausfred II de Roselló and deeply rebuilt at the end of the 19th century by the Counts of Rocaberti in a very spectacular and fanciful neo-medieval style. It is a majestic building that can be visited on weekends throughout the year and on weekdays during summer. It is accessible by a 7km track from the town of Cantallops.
More information: www.fincaderequesens.cat
Sant Ferran Castle - Figueres
Considered the largest bastioned military fortress in Europe, it is situated only 1km from the city center on a hill from where you can see the Serra de Montgrí, the Massís del Canigó, the Montseny and the Bay of Roses. Built in the 18th century with defensive functions, it was occupied by the French during the Spanish Independence War. In 1937 it housed works from the Prado Museum (Madrid) and was used by Franco as a concentration camp in 1940. It has an alongside path perimeter of 3,125 mt and can be visited with a prior reservation.
More information: www.castillosanfernando.org
Montgrí Castle - Torroella de Montgrí
Also known as Santa Caterina castle, it is located 315m above sea level at the top of Massís del Montgrí, just 6km from the sea. Designed with a squared floor plan, it has a cylindrical tower at each of its vertices and very high walls. Built in 1294 by order of King Jaume II "the Just" it is unfinished. It can be visited by accessing the interior through a spiral staircase in one of the towers to enjoy spectacular 360º views of the Bay of Roses and the Plana de l’Empordà.
More information: Wikipedia - Montgrí Castle
Púbol Castle - La Pera
An spectacular Gothic-Renaissance fortification built during the 11th century, consisting of three floors articulated around a high and narrow courtyard. Acquired in a dilapidated state by the genius Salvador Dalí in 1969 to give it as a present to his beloved Gala. The restoration was carried out by the artist himself, turning the works into a piece of art that he gifted to Gala and where she is buried in the underground mausoleum since 1982. An essential and surprising visit.
More information: www.salvador-dali.org
