Vilanova D`Alcolea – History, Nature and Holiday Apartment

Vilanova d’Alcolea combines Roman history, traditional architectural forms and natural sites within a compact thematic area. L’Hostalot-Ildum is an archaeological site considered one of the official Roman posting stations in the imperial communication system. It is located on the CV-10 at the junction where the CV-145 begins as the access road to Vilanova d’Alcolea. A section of the Via Augusta, which connected Gades, present-day Cádiz, with Rome, also ran through the town.

History and Culture

The later architectural history is reflected in the Church of Sant Bertomeu. It was built in the 17th century on the site of the former castle; a 16th-century chalice has been preserved inside. El Calvario has 14 chapels and was created between the 17th and 18th centuries at the initiative of the Franciscans. This historical picture is complemented by remains of a medieval wall preserved in the municipality of Vilanova d’Alcolea.

A milestone from the Hostalot area is also among the visible historical traces. It is publicly displayed in the lower section of Vilanova d’Alcolea Town Hall. Archaeological evidence, ecclesiastical architectural history and medieval remains can therefore be encountered at different locations within the municipality.

Dry-stone architecture is another part of the local culture. In Vilanova d’Alcolea, livestock shelters, huts, wells and small rural houses are among these architectural forms. Another craft tradition is Llata, woven dwarf-palm material. The municipality has numerous Llata works, including baskets, carrying baskets, fans and rugs. Llata workshops for children and older people are regularly organised in Vilanova d’Alcolea.

The culture can thus be understood through both solid masonry and archaeological finds as well as handmade objects. There is a visible difference in materials and techniques between the historical architectural forms and the Llata works: here, stone, walls and chapels shape the townscape, while there, woven palm fibres define the craft tradition.

Nature

The Paratge Natural de l’Assut has been a wildlife reserve since 2015. It is home to amphibian species that are unique in Europe. The Paratge Font de Calaf features a natural spring, barbecue facilities and stone tables beneath black poplars. Another designated natural site is the Xop de l’Assut, listed as a monumental tree.

Trails and Landscape

The Ruta de les Sénies is an easy 3.79-kilometre hiking trail. It runs along the banks of the Río Vilanova and passes hydraulic structures. This means that the watercourse, historical use and technical structures stand side by side along the route. Its length and designated difficulty level provide clear points of reference for assessing this trail alongside the town’s cultural and natural themes.

Vilanova d’Alcolea therefore offers various points of access: Roman transport and settlement history, ecclesiastical and medieval evidence, dry-stone architecture, Llata works, designated natural sites and a short trail along the Río Vilanova.

For the overarching travel overview: Castellon.

Other destinations at this level: Culla, Peníscola, Caudiel, Castellnovo, Borriol, Sarratella, Ayódar and Artana.