Castell de la Roca

Castell de la Roca is a medieval watchtower rising above Sant Llorenç Savall, in the Vallès Occidental comarca, on the edge of the Sant Llorenç del Munt i l'Obac natural park. Also known as Torrota de la Roca or La Torreta, it stands on a ridge at roughly 500 metres of altitude, guarding the entrance to the Vall d'Horta.

Why was this tower built here?

The site is documented as far back as 1087 and formed part of the defensive network linked to the nearby Castell de Pera. Despite being one of the strongest strongholds in the area, Castell de Pera lacked a direct line of sight over the Horta and Ripoll valleys. The tower on the rock closed that gap: from its elevated position, lookouts could watch both valleys and relay signals onward.

What remains to see today?

What survives is a square-plan structure measuring 11.5 metres per side, with only the north-eastern wall still standing to a notable height of around 3 metres. A few metres to the east stands a separate, smaller signal or watch tower about 2 metres in diameter, of which barely 50 centimetres of wall now remains. The stones used in construction are carefully cut, evidence of solid workmanship despite the heavy erosion visible today.

The site holds the status of Cultural Asset of National Interest (Bé Cultural d'Interès Nacional) and is listed in Catalonia's inventory of architectural heritage.

How do you get to Castell de la Roca?

Access is via the B-124 road, between kilometres 17 and 18, near the village of Sant Feliu del Racó. From there, a dirt track in good condition leads to a small parking area. A well-marked trail then climbs to the ruins, with the ascent taking about 20 minutes on foot. The site is open to the public year-round and free to visit.

Further along the same trail lies Molí de la Roca, a former mill, while the Torrent de la Vall d'Horta ravine runs right beside the tower.

What should you know before visiting?

Thanks to its elevation and open surroundings, the tower offers wide views over the Horta and Ripoll valleys and the surrounding hills of the Sant Llorenç del Munt massif. Sturdy walking shoes are recommended, as the final stretch follows a steep, stony path.

Frequently asked questions

What other names does this site go by? It is most commonly referred to as Torrota de la Roca or La Torreta, both describing the same tower on the rock above Sant Llorenç Savall.

How long does it take to reach the ruins? From the dirt-road parking area, the well-marked trail takes around 20 minutes to walk uphill.

Is there an entrance fee? No, the site is freely accessible at any time, with no ticket or booking required.

Why is the tower historically significant? It filled a visibility gap for Castell de Pera, letting lookouts see the valleys the main stronghold could not, making it part of the region's wider defensive network.