Castell de Castellar

Castell de Castellar is a medieval fortress in the municipality of Aguilar de Segarra, in the Bages region of Barcelona province. It sits on a rocky outcrop at the top of the Serra de Castellar, more than 160 metres above the Rajadell stream valley, right at the border with the neighbouring municipality of Rajadell. Today it is one of the best-preserved castles in this part of Catalonia and a favourite target for history buffs and hikers alike.

How do you get there?

Aguilar de Segarra lies deep in the Bages countryside, away from the main tourist routes — which is exactly what keeps the area quiet and uncrowded. The easiest approach is by car, on local roads running from Manresa towards Rajadell and on to Castellar. The final stretch up to the castle itself has to be walked: a steep path climbs through rocky terrain, but the panoramic reward at the top makes the climb worthwhile. Sturdy footwear is recommended, since the ground is uneven and loose in places.

What will you find at the site?

The castle has an irregular, roughly oval floor plan — about 32 metres along its longer axis and 28 metres along the shorter one, shaped by the rock it was built on. From its walls, the view opens onto the surrounding hills and farmland, making the site as much a lookout point as a historical monument. Its current form is the result of several building phases: the earliest structure likely dates to the 10th century, with major reconstruction work carried out from the 14th century onward. In the 17th century, part of the complex was converted into a farmhouse, which remained inhabited until just a few decades ago.

Where does this castle come from? A short history

The earliest records of a settlement bearing a name close to today's appear in documents from 983 and 1029, where the toponym "in Castelar" is first recorded. Over nearly a thousand years, ownership of the castle passed through five different families. It was first held by the descendants of the Seguí lineage, who acted as feudal lords of the area until the late 13th century. From the mid-13th century to the 16th century it belonged to the Grevalosa family, then to the Amat family through the 17th and 18th centuries, and finally to the Càrcer and Vilallonga families during the 19th century. Given its historical value, Castell de Castellar has been declared a cultural asset of national interest.

The turning point came in 1997, when its then owner, Count Joan Joaquim de Vilallonga i Girona, transferred the castle to the Foundation of Cultural Castles of Catalonia. Actual restoration work only began in 2005, once the municipality of Aguilar de Segarra took over management of the project. The first restoration phase was completed and formally opened on 8 September 2012, and conservation work continues to this day.

When should you visit?

Because the climb is steep and there is no shelter along the way, spring and autumn are the best seasons, with mild temperatures and clear views from the walls. Summer heat in this part of Catalonia can be intense, especially on the shadeless ascent.

Frequently asked questions

Can you visit the castle on your own? The castle grounds can be explored independently, though guided visits need to be arranged in advance directly with the Aguilar de Segarra town council.

How do you organise a group visit? Groups interested in a guided tour should contact the town council by phone or by email at info@castelldecastellar.cat.

Is the walk up to the castle difficult? The final stretch climbs steeply over rocky ground. It is not an extreme route, but it does call for proper footwear and reasonable fitness.

Are there other attractions nearby? The Bages region is dotted with similar medieval fortresses and villages, so a visit to Castellar pairs well with a trip to nearby Rajadell or the town of Manresa.