Can Barrau de Vera

Can Barrau de Vera is a historic masia (traditional Catalan farmhouse) in Argentona, a small town in the province of Barcelona, set on the slope of the Turó de Cerdanyola hill. The building dates back to the 16th century and is listed in the municipal catalogue as an asset of local cultural interest, making it a rewarding stop for travelers interested in the quieter side of Catalan rural heritage.

What will you see there?

Can Barrau de Vera is a two-story farmhouse that has been reshaped several times over the centuries. Its most recognizable feature is the gallery added on the southwest-facing side — a common element in Catalan rural architecture, traditionally used for drying crops and shielding the interior from strong sunlight. The house sits on a small rise, supported by sturdy stone retaining walls topped with a balustrade, giving the whole ensemble the look of a modest country residence overlooking the surrounding fields.

In recent years the masia underwent a thorough restoration. During the works, a second underground chamber — a hipogeu — was uncovered on the property. It turned out to be larger and better preserved than similar structures previously documented in the area, with a corridor leading to a final chamber. These carved underground spaces were once used to store agricultural produce, and the discovery adds a new piece to the picture of rural settlement history in this part of Argentona.

Once the restoration is complete, the building is set to take on a new community role: it will become the headquarters of the local scout group, Agrupament Escolta Calabrot. It's a good example of how historic rural buildings in Catalonia are often given a second life as active community spaces rather than being left as static monuments.

How do you get there?

Argentona sits in the Maresme region, a short drive from Mataró and roughly 30-40 minutes from Barcelona depending on the mode of transport. The easiest approach is by car or by local train/bus to Argentona's town center, followed by a walk or bike ride toward Turó de Cerdanyola, on whose western slope the farmhouse stands. Since Can Barrau de Vera is a private or community-use property currently being adapted for a new function, it's worth checking accessibility in advance — access to the interior may be limited, but the building's exterior and surroundings make for a pleasant walk regardless.

When should you visit?

Spring and early autumn are the best times to visit, when temperatures in the Maresme region are mild and the surrounding hills and fields look their best. In summer, it's worth avoiding the midday hours due to the heat typical of this part of Catalonia. Argentona itself is known for its ceramics market and local festivals, so it's worth pairing a visit to Can Barrau de Vera with a walk through the town center.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Can Barrau de Vera? It's a 16th-century masia, a traditional Catalan farmhouse, located on the slope of Turó de Cerdanyola in Argentona. It is listed in the municipal catalogue of assets of local cultural interest.

Can you visit the interior of the building? The property recently underwent restoration and is set to become the headquarters of a local scout group, so interior access may be limited — it's best to check the current status before visiting.

What was discovered during the restoration? Workers uncovered a second underground chamber (hipogeu) on the property, larger than previously known examples in the area, with a corridor leading to a final chamber.

How far is Can Barrau de Vera from the center of Argentona? The building stands on the western slope of Turó de Cerdanyola, within easy walking or cycling distance of the town center.