Albons: Romanesque architecture, fortified tower and Puig Segalar

Culture and history

The Romanesque parish church of Sant Cugat d’Albons stands at the highest point of the village of Albons. It was built in two phases. The first phase dates from the 10th and 11th centuries, and the second from the 12th and 13th centuries.

El castell is documented as being owned by the Torrent family at the beginning of the 13th century. El castell was renovated in the early 1980s. Its structure was preserved in the process. The building was converted into several apartments. The large portal of El castell dates from the 14th and 15th centuries. It has a voussoir arch and can be seen from the open square in front of the building. The courtyard of El castell is not open to visitors.

The best-preserved structure in the medieval centre of Albons is the only known tower of the former fortification. It is a rectangular fortified tower. It has been preserved up to a height of around five metres. On its northern side, it has two loopholes, and on its western side, three.

The course of the medieval fortification of Albons can be traced reasonably well on the eastern and southern sides of the village. The urban structure and street names, among other things, help identify it.

The Espai d’Art Pujolboira is a cultural centre. It is located in the former parish house next to the church of Albons. It was established in memory of Ramon Pujolboira. The Fundació Pujolboira organises visits to the Espai d’Art Pujolboira for school classes and groups.

Trails and festivals

The simple Romanesque Capella de Sant Grau stands halfway up Puig Segalar. It is surrounded by pine and holm oak forests. The chapel can be reached via a path from La Creu up the hill. This path continues towards Garrigoles.

The route is entitled “Ruta 1: Albons. El Puig Segalar, gran vista de la llanura ampurdanesa”. It leads through pine forests to Sant Grau. From Sant Grau, it continues to Puig Segalar. From there, it offers sweeping views over the Empordà plain.

The Sant Grau festival takes place on 13 October. During the celebration, residents of Albons and the surrounding area climb the old path to the chapel.

The Revetlla de Sant Joan in Albons includes the arrival of the Canigó Flame, the lighting of bonfires and dancing. It is celebrated on 23 June.

Cycling

The cycling stage “Tram 6” leads to Albons. From Albons, it either provides a connection to Alt Empordà or allows further exploration of Baix Empordà.

Other places

You can find more places here: Pont De Molins, Sant Feliu de Buixalleu, Maçanet De La Selva, Palamós, El Far d'Empordà, Banyoles, Llagostera, Aiguaviva.

To the higher-level travel overview: Girona.