Castell de la Mola

Castell de la Mola is a small, circular tower standing on the summit of Mola mountain, above the village of Colldejou in the Baix Camp region (province of Tarragona, Catalonia). Despite its name, what stands on the peak today is not a medieval fortress but a much younger structure with a surprisingly military backstory.

What will you see there?

The building is a single-story, cylindrical structure of dry stone masonry, likely originally topped with a false dome. It was built in 1875, during the final months of the Third Carlist War — construction began early that year and was finished in April, carried out by residents of nearby villages who were compelled to do the work by military authorities. Its purpose was optical telegraphy: signals were relayed using a system of movable wooden boards visible from several kilometers away, in the same manner as the Torre de l'Esquirol in nearby Cambrils.

Evidence suggests the stone tower rests on the base of a much older, medieval structure, remnants of which are still visible today. The summit itself has an even longer history: researchers point to traces of an Iberian settlement, as well as later use by Romans and Saracens. Local legend also holds that the notorious Catalan bandit Carrasclet took refuge here in the 18th century while fleeing Bourbon troops.

How to get there?

Mola de Colldejou rises to 914 meters and forms part of a mountain range that, together with the Llaberia, Escornalbou, and Argentera massifs, separates Baix Camp from the neighboring Priorat region. Hiking trails leading to the summit start from the village of Colldejou — the climb is demanding but does not require climbing experience, just reasonable fitness and proper footwear. It's worth planning a full-day outing, ideally during the cooler hours, since much of the route runs without shade.

When to visit?

Spring and autumn are the best times to attempt the summit, offering milder temperatures and generally clearer views. Summer heat in the Camp de Tarragona region can make the hike strenuous, especially around midday. Winter brings fewer crowds to the trail, though it's worth checking weather conditions before setting out.

Good to know before you go

Castell de la Mola is listed as a cultural asset of national interest, underlining its historical value despite the tower's modest size. The main draw, however, isn't the structure itself but the panorama from the summit: from here you can take in much of the Camp de Tarragona plain, and on clear days, the surrounding mountain ranges as well.

Frequently asked questions

Is Castell de la Mola an actual castle? Not in the classic sense. It's a 19th-century optical telegraph tower, though it likely stands on the foundations of an older medieval structure.

How long does the climb to the summit take? It depends on the trail and your pace, but plan for several hours round trip, including time to rest and take in the views.

Is the trail suitable for children? The ascent is physically demanding, so it's better suited to older children accustomed to longer mountain hikes.

What else is worth seeing nearby? The area between Baix Camp and Priorat offers several similar mountain ranges (Llaberia, Escornalbou, Argentera), and the village of Colldejou itself makes a good base for further hikes in the region.