Can Cabús de Baix

Can Cabús de Baix is a centuries-old masia (traditional Catalan farmhouse) standing in Alella, in the Maresme region of Barcelona province. Listed in Catalonia's cultural heritage catalogue as a site of local historical interest, it is one of many rural estates that still dot the hills and vineyards around this small coastal town.

How do you get to Can Cabús de Baix?

The farmhouse sits within the municipal boundaries of Alella, roughly fifteen kilometres northeast of Barcelona, in a landscape shaped by terraced vineyards and gentle Mediterranean hills. Its coordinates, 41.498019, 2.296545, are worth entering into a map app if driving from central Alella or from neighbouring towns such as Teià or El Masnou. Alella itself is easy to reach from Barcelona by commuter train or regional bus, but the masia is scattered among farmland and unpaved country lanes on the town's outskirts, so the final stretch is best covered on foot or by bicycle along local rural paths.

What is the history behind this farmhouse?

The story of Can Cabús de Baix goes back to the late 14th century. The estate was first recorded in 1392 under the name Mas Roure, owned by Pere Roure, and it remained in the Roure family for generations. A turning point came in 1731, when Jaume Roure died and the property passed to his heir, Francesca Roure. Her marriage to Joan Cabús reshaped the estate's identity: from then on it became known as Can Cabús de Baix, distinguishing it from a second farmhouse the same family owned further uphill, near the Torrent de la Coma Clara stream — hence the pairing of "de Baix" (lower) and "de Dalt" (upper). At the start of the 20th century, descendants of the Cabús family sold the estate to Araceli Fabra i Puig, closing another chapter in its long ownership history.

What will you actually see there?

Structurally, the building follows the classic pattern of a Maresme masia: a ground floor topped by two upper storeys, under a gable roof whose ridge runs perpendicular to the façade — a layout common across rural houses in this part of Catalonia. It's worth knowing, though, that the exterior has undergone substantial alterations over time. None of the original stone lintels, thresholds or door jambs survive, and the arched doorway typical of older masies is no longer visible, most likely hidden beneath later layers of plaster. As a result, Can Cabús de Baix is more valuable as a piece of local history than as a showpiece of rural architecture — its façade today looks plain rather than picturesque.

Because it remains private property, there is no organized visiting route inside the building. The best way to experience it is from the outside, respecting the residents and the surrounding farmland.

When is the best time to visit?

The Maresme region has a typically Mediterranean climate, so spring (April to June) and early autumn (September–October) offer the most comfortable conditions for exploring the area on foot, with moderate temperatures and the surrounding vineyards and hills at their most scenic. Summers can be hot and humid, which makes longer walks along the unshaded country lanes leading to the farmhouse less pleasant.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you go inside Can Cabús de Baix? No — it is a private estate and the interior is not open to the public. You can approach it from the outside using local rural roads and paths.

Where does the name Can Cabús de Baix come from? It comes from the Cabús family name, who took over the estate in 1731 through Joan Cabús's marriage to heiress Francesca Roure. The "de Baix" (lower) suffix distinguishes it from the family's other farmhouse, Can Cabús de Dalt (upper), located nearby.

Does the building still look like it did in the 14th century? Not entirely. Although the estate's recorded history dates to 1392, the façade has been significantly altered over the centuries — the original stone elements are gone, and the old arched entrance is no longer visible.

What's the easiest way to reach Alella to explore the area? The most convenient option is the train or bus from Barcelona, followed by a walk or bike ride out toward the farmland and masies scattered around the edges of town.