Mas Català

Mas Català is a historic masia — a traditional Catalan farmhouse — in Cabrera de Mar, a small town on the Maresme coast not far from Barcelona. The building is listed as a local cultural heritage site and ranks among the most significant historic farmhouses in the municipality.

What is the history behind Mas Català?

Records of the property go back to the 13th century: a document from 1294 confirms its existence, and an indirect reference two years earlier names a certain Bernat Català as the possible builder of the house. The family name stuck to the property for centuries — a 1497 census lists a Johan Catalaç, and the 1553 census again records the Cathalà surname. The building as it stands today most likely dates from between the 16th and 17th centuries, though the estate underwent several transformations over time.

A turning point came in the early 20th century, when the estate was bought by the Ordeig family. In 1902, architect Joaquim Bassegoda i Amigó carried out a major renovation in a historicist style, giving the house much of its present-day character. That renovation also added the estate's grand entrance gate, built in the Catalan Modernisme (Art Nouveau) style.

What can you see at Mas Català?

The building is made up of three sections set at right angles to each other. The central, taller block has a ground floor, first floor, and an attic under a gabled roof, while the two lower lateral wings — ground floor plus first floor — sit under pitched roofs. Architecturally, Mas Català blends several periods: Renaissance touches, Neo-Gothic details, historicist additions, and Modernisme elements, making it a layered example of a Catalan country house reshaped across the centuries. The most recognizable feature remains the Modernisme entrance portal, which acts as the estate's visual signature.

Mas Català also holds cultural significance beyond its architecture: pedagogue and writer Jaume Català i Comes was born in the house in 1867, adding another layer to the property's standing in local history.

How do you get to Mas Català in Cabrera de Mar?

Cabrera de Mar sits on the Maresme coast, northeast of Barcelona. The town is well connected to the city — the easiest options are driving along the coastal highway or taking a regional train to nearby Vilassar de Mar or Mataró, then continuing on foot or by local bus into Cabrera de Mar. Keep in mind that Mas Català is a private residence, so the building is best appreciated from the outside while strolling through the surrounding area — the town itself has several other historic masies worth seeing on the same walk.

When is the best time to visit Cabrera de Mar?

Spring and early autumn are the best times to explore the Maresme region, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds than the summer beach season brings. Summer can get hot and busier, making it less pleasant for a relaxed walk through the historic lanes and for admiring architecture such as Mas Català at leisure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you go inside Mas Català? No, it is a private residence. The building is viewed from the outside, particularly its distinctive Modernisme entrance gate.

How old is Mas Català? The earliest documented references to the property date to the late 13th century (1294), though the current building most likely dates from the 16th–17th centuries.

Who renovated Mas Català in the early 20th century? Architect Joaquim Bassegoda i Amigó carried out the 1902 renovation, commissioned by the Ordeig family after they acquired the estate.

Which notable figure was born at Mas Català? Pedagogue and writer Jaume Català i Comes was born in the house in 1867.