At the entrance to Botarell, at the foot of the road to MontbriĂł, stands the Pedrafita, a granite stone about two metres high. It is around 55 centimetres wide and 30 centimetres thick. It appears to have been mentioned as a boundary stone as early as 1571; according to tradition, however, it could also be a prehistoric menhir. The stone thus links a historical reference with an explicitly possible prehistoric interpretation.
Architecture and Local History
In the town centre, the ruins of the former castle and a round watchtower are among the notable features. The parish church of Sant Llorenç offers a different historical highlight: it is in the Renaissance style and was built between 1617 and 1622. Its features include gargoyles and a coat of arms that refers to Botarell. Alongside its architectural style, the church’s coat of arms also provides a specific connection to the town.
Mas del Gerro is a farmhouse built in 1915 with a Modernist character. Mas de Perdiu was remodelled in 1910 by the Modernist architect Joan RubiĂł Bellver. The details differ in focus: Mas del Gerro concerns the construction of the farmhouse, while Mas de Perdiu concerns a renovation and the architect involved.
Landscape and Font Vella
Several ravines and streams cross the area around Botarell. They usually carry water only after very heavy rain. The Riera de les Voltes is one of Botarell’s most significant streams. An important qualification when describing these waterways is that they are normally dry.
Font Vella de Botarell is also connected with the town’s history. It is believed to be thousands of years old, although its exact origin is unknown. According to tradition, the village was founded in the area around Font Vella because of the plentiful water, which was considered excellent. The spring and the story of the village’s founding thus form a distinct part of local tradition.
Garden and Local Festivals
You can take a walk in the botanical garden. It features several native tree species and a children’s play area. Alongside streams and historic buildings, there is also a garden where you can stroll, with native trees and a play area.
Traditions of the Festa Major de Sant Llorenç include a sardine celebration and rom cremat. The Sant Joan festival includes lighting a bonfire and a fireworks display. On Saint Blaise’s Day, the traditional “blaiets” and fruit are blessed. According to popular tradition, the fruit is eaten on 25 March and is said to protect against sore throats.
The Three Kings procession also follows a distinctive route through the town: it passes along every street and stops beneath windows and balconies. The customs described differ considerably in form—from festival traditions involving a sardine celebration and rom cremat, to bonfires and fireworks, and blessings and processions.
Vuelta de Riudecols-Botarell Route
The Vuelta de Riudecols-Botarell route runs from Riudecols over the pass near Mas d'en Casas to Botarell, then returns along the older, flatter connecting path. The outward and return journeys therefore follow different routes: the pass is on the way to Botarell, while the return follows the older, flatter path.
Discover more destinations: El Lligallo Del GĂ nguil, Vespella De GaiĂ , El MilĂ , La Riera de GaiĂ , Reus, Xerta, El Catllar, Tivenys
For the broader travel overview: Tarragona.
