Montgrí Castle facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Montgrí Castle |
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| Castell del Montgrí | |
| Torroella de Montgrí, Catalonia, Spain | |
Montgrí Castle.
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Montgrí Castle at the top of the Montgrí Massif.
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| Coordinates | 42°03′06″N 3°07′53″E / 42.0518°N 3.13134°E |
| Type | Castle |
| Site information | |
| Open to the public |
yes |
| Site history | |
| Built | 1294 to 1301 |
| Built by | James II of Aragon |
| In use | 1301 to 1472 |
The Montgrí Castle (Catalan: Castell del Montgrí) is an old fortress in Torroella de Montgrí, Catalonia, Spain. It was built between 1294 and 1301. The castle was planned because of a fight between two powerful groups. These were the counts of Empúries and the counts of Barcelona. The counts of Barcelona were very strong in Catalonia and controlled much of the Mediterranean Sea.
To keep an eye on the counts of Empúries, the court of Barcelona ordered a fortress to be built. Bernat de Llabià, the governor of Torroella de Montgrí, was in charge of building it. The work started in 1294 on top of the Montgrí Massif. However, the castle was never fully finished. Today, it is no longer used for defense. Instead, it has become an important symbol for the region.
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Why Was Montgrí Castle Built?
Montgrí Castle was built during a time of conflict. The counts of Empúries ruled the area around Torroella de Montgrí. The counts of Barcelona were the most powerful rulers in Catalonia. They also had a lot of control over the Mediterranean Sea.
King James II of Aragon wanted to control the counts of Empúries. He ordered the castle to be built to watch their movements. This way, the King could protect his lands and power.
Who Built the Castle?
The court of Barcelona put Bernat de Llabià in charge. He was the governor of the royal town of Torroella de Montgrí. His job was to make sure the fortress was built. Construction began in 1294.
When Was the Castle Used?
The castle was used from 1301 to 1472. Even though it was never completed, it served its purpose for many years. Over time, its strategic value decreased. It became more of a landmark than a military base.
What Does Montgrí Castle Look Like?
The design of Montgrí Castle is similar to fortresses from the Middle East. These types of castles became popular in Europe after the Crusades. They often had a regular shape with round towers built into the walls.
Castle Walls and Towers
Only the outer walls of Montgrí Castle were built. They form a square, with each side being 31 meters (about 102 feet) long. At each of the four corners, there is a round tower. The walls are 13 meters (about 43 feet) high. They have battlements along the top, which are gaps for defenders to shoot through.
Inside the Castle
The inside of the castle was planned around a square courtyard. This courtyard was paved with stone. Underneath it, there is a large cistern. This cistern was used to collect rainwater for the people inside the castle.
Four other buildings were planned around the courtyard. However, these buildings were never constructed. You can still see parts on the inner walls where these buildings would have connected. These parts show what the planned structure looked like.
Outside the Castle
Around the castle, you can see where the stones were taken from. These are the old quarries. There are also remains of a wall on the south side of the castle. On the northern slope of the mountain, there is another large cistern.
How to Visit Montgrí Castle?
Montgrí Castle is located in Torroella de Montgrí, Spain. It sits on top of the Montgrí Massif. The castle is open to the public.
Hiking to the Castle
A long-distance walking path called the GR 92 passes by the castle. This path generally follows the Mediterranean coast of Spain. You can reach the castle on the stage of the GR 92 between Sant Martí d'Empúries and Torroella de Montgrí. It's a great way to explore the area and see the castle.
