Zona Volcànica de la Garrotxa Natural Park

Historic sites in Zona Volcànica de la Garrotxa Natural Park

Historic Castles and Ruins

This collection features the archaeological heritage of the Garrotxa Volcanic Zone, ranging from prehistoric megaliths to medieval fortresses. Explore the remains of the 10th-century Castell de Puig-alder and the strategically significant Castell d'Hostoles, a central site during the War of the Remences. The list includes the Iberian settlement of La Palomera and ancient standing stones like the Menhir de Santa Margarida. These sites, often situated on volcanic ridges, offer insight into the defensive architecture and early human occupation of the Catalan landscape.

Historic Castles and Ruins — Map

Josep Maria Viñolas Esteva / CC BY-SA 4.0

A

Castell de Puig-alder

10th-century fortress ruins situated atop a volcanic peak. It historically served as a defensive lookout for the Hostoles valley.

B

Castell d'Hostoles

Significant 9th-century medieval fortress known for its role in the 15th-century Remences peasant uprisings. The ruins include the keep, cisterns, and curtain walls.

C

Murrià

Remains of a medieval fortification located on a strategic ridge near Sant Feliu de Pallerols.

D

Castell de Colltort

11th-century ruins located on the ridge separating the valleys of Santa Pau and Sant Feliu de Pallerols. It was part of the regional medieval defense system.

E

Menhir de Santa Margarida

Prehistoric standing stone located near the Santa Margarida volcano, marking early human activity in the volcanic park.

F

Can Mates

Ruins of a traditional water mill, reflecting the historical industrial use of the region's water resources.

G

Sant Julià del Mont

Ruined Romanesque monastery and church dating to the 10th century, situated on a high ridge overlooking the Garrotxa landscape.

H

Torre de Can Badia

Remains of a medieval defensive tower or fortified rural structure.

I

Poblat ibèric de la Palomera

Archaeological remains of an ancient settlement, providing evidence of pre-Roman habitation in the volcanic region.

J

Pedra del Diable

Prehistoric megalithic monument, also known as a menhir, located in the vicinity of Santa Pau.

K

Poblat ibèric de la Palomera

Archaeological site featuring the remains of a village inhabited during the Iron Age.

Other Lists

Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park: The Absolute Essentials Volcanic Wonders of Catalonia Sacred Sites and Churches Scenic Natural Wonders