Culture in La Selva

La Selva is a land of castles. Many of them, dating from the 9th and 10th centuries, originated as fortified enclaves. From these points, after the conquest of the territory from Muslim rule, the area that is now the region was monitored. Others, built from the 11th century onwards, are typical feudal castles, from which the territory was not only guarded and controlled but also administered, taxes were collected and justice was delivered (according to the feudal concept of justice).

Most of the castles in La Selva belonged to the powerful Viscounts of Cabrera, one of the most important feudal lineages in medieval Catalonia. However, other lords such as the Vilademany, the Gurb-Sarriera, the Bishop of Girona, the Abbot of Ripoll, the Montcada or the Cruïlles also took part in feudal rule in the area.

What stands out most about the castles of La Selva is their typological variety: from one of the largest castles in Catalonia, Montsoriu, to a modest yet well-preserved fortress such as Farners. From a modern fortress like Hostalric, designed to withstand artillery sieges, to the robust residential castles of Brunyola or Vilobí.

Some castles are still inhabited today or serve as public facilities; others, such as Torcafelló, Sant Iscle or Sant Joan de Lloret, have been recovered through archaeology to highlight their historical value. All are located in privileged settings, offering outstanding viewpoints over the region and its surroundings. In addition, the preservation of two walled towns of exceptional quality, Tossa de Mar and Hostalric, adds even more value.