Verdú: Old Town, Castle and Black Ceramics

Culture and History

Verdú’s old town can be explored on foot, and its streets convey an immediate impression of the Middle Ages. The Castell de Verdú is the town’s most distinctive building. Its 25-metre-high tower serves as a viewpoint over Urgell and the Vall del Corb. Stone graffiti preserved inside indicate that the tower was probably used in several historical periods. The parish church of Santa Maria complements the historic townscape with Romanesque and Gothic elements.

Outside this religious context, the Iberian archaeological site of Els Estinclells takes visitors back to the 3rd century BC. The fortress includes defensive elements, a ditch, a wall, houses, a water basin and a paved road. Cultural tours in Verdú convey the history of the town and last one hour; advance booking is required. Visiting the Iberian settlement of Els Estinclells also requires a prior arrangement with the Oficina de Turisme de Verdú.

Black Ceramics

Verdú’s black ceramics are made in wood-fired kilns and smoked using traditional, original techniques passed down through generations. At the Ceràmica Sambola family workshop, Francesc and Magí continue the tradition begun by their grandfather Sisco. The workshop organizes group visits during which the production process for various types of ceramics is explained, especially that of black ceramics. In this way, the focus is not only on the finished piece but also on the kiln, materials and craftsmanship.

Murals and Routes

Verdú’s Ruta dels Murals Ceràmics leads to ceramic murals at various locations within the municipality. The Ruta dels Murals Ceràmics de Verdú can be followed independently through the town’s streets. Another connection between culture and landscape is provided by the flat circular hiking route Tàrrega–Verdú–Tàrrega. It passes through grain fields and connects the two towns. For planning visits and circular hikes, current opening hours and the respective trail conditions can be checked before setting out.

Stage 23 of the Ignatian Way runs from Palau d'Anglesola to Verdú. It passes the church of Sant Miquel and ends at the Sant Pere Claver Sanctuary, the birthplace of the Catalan Jesuit. The sanctuary includes accommodation for pilgrims on the Ignatian Way. The stage thus combines a named starting point, a church visit and the destination at the sanctuary in one continuous route.

Getting There

The route to Verdú follows the A-2 motorway to Tàrrega and then the C-14 road. Tàrrega can be reached by train; onward travel to Verdú is by taxi or on foot. The journey can therefore be planned either via the road connection or by rail as far as Tàrrega.

Other destinations on the same level are Guimerà, Agramunt, Estaràs, Sidamon, Ivars D'urgell, Torrefarrera, Fórnols and València D'àneu.

To the higher-level travel overview: Lleida.