The Església de Sant Bartomeu, the Torre de Montferri and the Santuari de la Mare de Déu de Montserrat offer three different architectural perspectives in Montferri. The parish church highlights its different building phases, the Torre its floor plan and surviving masonry, and the Santuari Josep M. Jujol’s modernist design. If you are looking for a clear focus for your stay, you can choose between building history, a walking route and architecture.
Església de Sant Bartomeu: Building Phases and Details
The Església de Sant Bartomeu is Montferri’s parish church and is listed as a cultural asset of local interest. It has been documented since the 13th century and was built using the remains of an older structure dating from the early 12th century. The main façade dates from 1789, and the bell tower was built in 1797. These dates concern different parts of the church: the early building history and the later façade and tower elements can therefore be considered separately. For an architectural visit, this sequence is more informative than a single construction date.
In its sacristy, the church preserves a collection of Easter candles dating from 1978 to the present day. If you would like to plan a visit specifically to see the collection, check its current contents before your visit.
Torre de Montferri on Tossa Grossa
The Torre de Montferri stands on Tossa Grossa, a hill 386 metres high. Its floor plan is oval on the outside and circular on the inside; the surviving masonry reaches a height of about eight metres. Its construction is dated to around the year 1000. Unlike the specific years given for the church, this is an approximate date; the comparison therefore brings together different approaches to architectural dating.
From Montferri, you can reach the Torre on foot via the path from Montferri to Salomó. Check the trail conditions before setting out.
Modernist Architecture and Guided Visit
The Santuari de la Mare de Déu de Montserrat in Montferri is a modernist project by architect Josep M. Jujol, who was a pupil and collaborator of Gaudí. Jujol’s connection to Gaudí and his role in Gaudí’s circle give the Santuari a different architectural point of reference from the parish church’s and the Torre’s older building history. Montferri offers a guided visit for visitors who wish to see the Santuari. Check which date is suitable for this offering before making plans.
Castell de Rocamora and Calçotades
The Castell de Rocamora was built to defend the border area along the Riu Gaià. Until the 12th century, this river formed the last boundary between the Christian and Saracen worlds. The fortress is thus connected with the area’s border history. The restored Castell currently operates as a restaurant specializing in calçotades. If you would like to eat there, check that it is open and whether you need to make a reservation before travelling.
Discover more destinations: Creixell, La Nou De Gaià, Deltebre, Vespella De Gaià, Escaladei, Renau, Botarell, L'eucaliptus.
For the broader travel overview: Tarragona.
