Pontós brings together archaeological history, individual buildings and surroundings shaped by forests and farmland. Mas Castellar represents several settlement layers; churches, castle remains and recurring festivals offer further cultural and historical points of interest. The area also includes a site on the Fluvià River that is part of the Natura 2000 network. Different interests may therefore shape your plans: archaeology, religious architecture, specific festival dates or the landscape.
Mas Castellar: Settlement Layers and Location
The archaeological site of Mas Castellar has three superimposed settlements dating from between 450 and 180 BC. This span of several centuries means the site is best understood as a succession of settlements, rather than a single settlement period. Mas Castellar lies on a slightly elevated terrace between two nearby catchment areas and almost equidistant from the Greek colonies of Emporion and Rhode. Its date range is thus linked to a specific location in the landscape.
Getting Your Bearings: The Archaeological Site and Hilltop Landmarks
The access road to Mas Castellar starts in the centre of Pontós. Follow the GIV-5125 to its end, turn left onto the GIP-5126 and, about 340 metres beyond kilometre marker 3, take the road to Mas Castellar on the right. Check local road conditions before setting out. The remains of Pontós Castle are in the present-day Castell neighbourhood, on a hill 124 metres high, about 500 metres from the town centre. Torre de l’Àngel is a telegraph tower on a hill 146 metres high, about 500 metres north of Pontós.
Churches and Festivals
The church of Sant Martí de Pontós houses a Gothic baptismal font. The Ermita de Santa Anna is distinguished by a large atrium, or galilea, in front of the entrance; a large round arch defines this porch. The two religious buildings each have a different architectural feature: the font inside Sant Martí, and the design of the entrance area at Santa Anna. The Sunday morning programme of the Festa Major de Sant Martí includes a sung service accompanied by an orchestra in the church. The performers may change from year to year. In July, Pontós celebrates the summer Festa Major de Santa Anna. If you would like to plan your trip around one of the festivals, check the latest dates in advance.
Forests, Farmland and the Fluvià
Pontós’s natural surroundings are characterised by pine, holm oak and oak forests, as well as farmland. The municipality also includes an area along the Fluvià River that is part of the Natura 2000 network. The forests and farmland form the broader landscape, alongside the area on the Fluvià with its specific connection to the Natura 2000 network. These different aspects of the natural environment can help you decide what kind of landscape to focus on during your trip.
Pontós on the Camí de Sant Jaume
The Camí de Sant Jaume offers another point of reference: the route from Figueres to Bàscara passes through Pontós. This route connection differs from the local information about Mas Castellar and the hilltop landmarks. If you are already planning around the Camí de Sant Jaume, you can consider Pontós one of the places along its route. The route thus adds a broader perspective to the local cultural and landscape themes.
Discover more destinations: Cruïlles, Foixà, Biure, Olot, Cornellà Del Terri, Cruïlles, Monells i Sant Sadurní de l'Heura, Hostalric, Vilobí D'onyar.
See the broader travel guide: Girona.
