Calabuig sits on a hill near the southern bank of the Fluvià. Two landmarks reveal the different sides of the village: Sant Feliu at the highest point and the paths along the riverbank. From the church, the view stretches across the Empordà plain to the Bay of Roses. The narrow, steeply rising streets on the northern slope lead up to Sant Feliu. The views and the village’s history are rooted in the hillside; the riverside paths offer a separate focus for walks and cycling.

Sant Feliu: Views and Architectural History

The church of Sant Feliu is mentioned in a document dating from 1157. It occupies a space in the Castell de Calabuig, possibly the former great hall. The surviving remains of the Castell, which were used as a parish church in the modern era, date from the period after its destruction in the time of James I and are incorporated into the present-day church building. The Castell is said to have been destroyed by royal troops in 1275 in connection with an uprising by Count Hug V of Empúries and other nobles from the Empordà, including the Viscounts of Rocabertí.

Paths to the Springs and Along the Fluvià

The path behind Sant Feliu leads down to the springs of Calabuig. Along the banks of the Fluvià, paths run from Calabuig towards Bàscara and the neighbouring villages of Vilaür and Arenys d’Empordà; walkers and cyclists use these riverside paths. When planning, the options can be distinguished by destination: the path behind the church leads to the springs, while the river paths head towards the villages mentioned above. Those interested in the views and architectural history can explore the hillside; those looking to spend time outdoors on foot or by bike will find a different focus along the riverbank.

Molí de Calabuig and the Chapel of Sant Nicolau

Another place by the river is the Molí de Calabuig. Its small chapel is dedicated to Sant Nicolau and dates from the time when the building underwent extensive renovation in the late 19th or early 20th century. This is a different historical connection from that of Sant Feliu: at the Molí, the focus is on the renovation of the mill building and its chapel, while the history of the church is linked to the Castell. Visitors who want to get to know Calabuig through its buildings can thus distinguish between two different stories: the history of the castle and church on the hillside, and the renovation of the Molí by the river.

The Nearby Priorat Sant Nicolau

The Priorat Sant Nicolau de Calabuig was located about 2 km southeast of Calabuig, on the site of the present-day country house Can Pagès, formerly known as Mas Margall. It belonged to the abbey of Sant Esteve de Banyoles and was founded over the remains of an ancient building. Only partially preserved remains of the priory survive in the buildings of Can Pagès. This site adds a distinct historical context and another point of interest to the southeast to the history of the church and the Castell.

Festa Major in Late July

Calabuig’s Festa Major takes place in late July, although the date may vary. If you would like to plan your stay around the festival, check the dates for your travel period.

Discover more destinations: Orriols.

Return to the main travel overview: Bàscara.