Located in Catalonia, halfway between Girona and Barcelona and close to the Costa Brava, the municipality of Hostalric is home to some of the most remarkable heritage in the La Selva region. The medieval walls and towers are true gems of Catalan heritage. The use of basalt stone in the construction of the fortress and walled enclosure gives Hostalric an extraordinary singularity. Once there, it's easy to see why Hostalric's heritage has been declared a cultural asset of national interest. The Hostalric castle, which rises imposingly from the top of a hill, dominates the town and remains one of its most emblematic features. Its architecture and history continue to fascinate lovers of ancient heritage. Here are 5 good reasons to discover this wonder of Catalonia.
1. The fortress, an icon in the town of Hostalric
In medieval times,Hostalric castle helped keep control of the Ral route, guarding the passages between Girona and Barcelona. In the 17th century, the fortress situated on an ancient volcano began to be transformed to adapt to the changing defense strategies of the time. But it was in the 18th century that it underwent its main transformations, becoming a benchmark military construction.Château d'Hostalric features the defensive elements typical of this period. The highest part, which occupies the site of the former medieval Cabreras castle, can now be rented out for special events rented out for special events.
Audiovisual elements, interactive screens and interpretive panels take visitors deep into the history of this incredible Catalan monument.
2. A visit for the whole family
TheHostalric tourist office offers a range of options for visiting and exploring the imposing fortress. Guided tours immerse visitors in the castle's history. A local guide reveals all the secrets and legends of this monumental fortress. This type of tour is perfect for history buffs and anyone who doesn't want to miss a single detail.
A self-guided tour of the monument is also available. Curious visitors can explore the castle and its nooks and crannies at their own pace, with the option of taking photos. This option is ideal for those who enjoy adventure and taking their time.
Finally, there are theatrical tours. Families love them! Childrenand adults alike enjoy a lively, amusing and instructive experience.
3. A movie castle
Hostalric castle offers an incomparable setting for recreating scenes from past eras and exciting adventures. The setting offered by the fortress has not failed to seduce the film and television industry. Thanks to its impressive architecture and location, the castle has become the backdrop for several film productions set in different parts of Spain.
Real-life events, epic fictional scenes and even novels brought to the big screen are set in certain corners of Hostalric Castle. Historical productions, romantic dramas and suspense thrillers are just some of the film genres to which this monument has given life.
One of the areas that has most fired the imagination of film-makers is the "bomb-proof gallery", an underground gallery that has long served as a place of refuge. Its structure and mysterious atmosphere create the perfect conditions for many productions. A visit to Château d'Hostalric is like being the protagonist in one of those stories that can be seen on screen.
4. The unique bomb-proof gallery, a structure unique in Catalonia
Inside the Hostalric fortress lies an architectural marvel found nowhere else in Catalonia: the famous bomb-proof gallery. This part of the fortress is a spectacular testimony to modern military engineering. At 300 m long, this underground gallery is a veritable hidden treasure. This long corridor, which connects the lower part of the enclosure to the main bastion, was once a vitally important route in times of siege, offering shelter and safety to soldiers and inhabitants of the medieval city.
The visit is a wonderful opportunity to admire the details of this masterpiece of military architecture, to immerse yourself in the history of the city and to imagine situations experienced in times of uncertainty and conflict.
5. Breathtaking panoramas
If you're a fan of spectacular panoramas, you've come to the right place when you visit Château d'Hostalric. On one side, there are views of the village's vegetable gardens and crops, sheltered by the Montnegre massif. On theother, the Montseny massif comes into view, offering extraordinary sunsets. And then, from the Horloge tower, the view extends to the roofs of the medieval town of Hostalric, its towers and ramparts. In fact, whether before or after a visit to the château, a stroll through the medieval town of Hostalric is a must. Its majestic walls, 600 m long, include no fewer than 8 exceptionally well-preserved towers. Take time to stroll along the wall walk before climbing the Torre d'Ararà and Torre de Tuies Negre.
The most imposing of the towers, Torre dels Frares, stands outside thewalled enclosure. Its ascent is not to be missed, as its summit offers one of the most spectacular views of the city.
You can discover the treasures of the medieval city on your own. Visit the Tourist Office to obtain a set of keys to access all the towers that can be visited. It's an adventure that appeals to everyone, and can be enjoyed at any time of year.
Did you enjoy visiting Hostalric and its castle? Discover the 10 must-sees in the Girona Pyrenees.
