Have you ever wondered which is Catalonia's oldest village? Its name is Ullastret, a small but captivating town of 250 inhabitants in Girona province, Catalonia. This charming spot is especially famous for its historical and cultural wealth and is a magnet for tourists and archaeology lovers. But, beyond its tourist attractions, Ullastret also showcases Catalan tradition, evident in its architecture, food and way of life.
The oldest Iberian settlement in Catalonia
Ullastret's relevance as a site of historical and archaeological interest is due to its Iberian settlement, which dates back to the 6th century BC. This Iberian settlement, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000, is one of the largest and best-preserved in Catalonia. The fortified city was an important centre of trade and power during the Iberian period, and its extensive archaeological area includes defensive walls, buildings and a complex network of streets.
Excavations at the site have uncovered findings that shed light on the daily life, customs and economy of the Iberian civilisation. Ceramic utensils, metal tools and coins have been found, showing great sophistication and contact with other Mediterranean cultures. Ullastret is home to the Museum of Archaeology of Catalonia, where visitors can learn more about this fascinating period of Catalan and Spanish history.
Some of the most important discoveries made at the Ullastret archaeological site include:
- A 500 m2 palace from the 3rd century BC. This discovery suggests that Ullastret was not simply a centre of commercial and defensive activity but was also important in political and social terms.
- A metallurgical furnace specialising in the smelting of bronze and iron, also dating from the 3rd century BC, and a tiled floor.
- Settlements outside the walled enclosure, including a central street 50 metres long and 4 metres wide and an artisan district outside the wall. This discovery suggests that Ullastret may have been more extensive than initially thought.
- Dating from the 4th century BC, Catalonia's oldest funerary inscription was discovered in the village.
- The first military building in Catalan Iberian archaeology was found there.
Historical and artistic monument
The village of Ullastret is equally attractive for its architecture and landscape. The stone houses, with their red-tiled roofs, are a faithful reflection of traditional Catalan architecture. Its medieval ensemble, declared a historic-artistic monument, includes Sant Pere church (11th century), walls and a Gothic market.
The village's surroundings offer a variety of natural landscapes, including farmland, forests and the characteristic 'Gavarres', a series of low hills covered with Mediterranean vegetation. These natural spaces are ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling and bird watching.
Catalan cuisine and tradition
Ullastret's cuisine is another of the pillars of its cultural identity. Being located near the coast, seafood features prominently in the local cuisine. However, the land's influence is also notable, with dishes that include local meats, vegetables and pulses. Tapas, sausages such as "butifarra", and local wines or cavas complement this rich culinary offer.
Festivals and cultural events are another way to immerse yourself in the life and traditions of the town. From religious festivals to fairs and markets, each event is an opportunity to experience Ullastret's characteristic hospitality and sense of community.
Houses for sale in Ullastret, a charming historic village
You only need to see the properties for sale in Ullastret to realise the rich cultural heritage hidden in its streets and buildings. We can find authentic luxury villas, such as this 19th-century country house, priced at €3.65 million.
With a surface area of 834 m2 and a plot of 4,033 m2, five bedrooms, six bathrooms and a swimming pool, this property embodies traditional Catalan architecture with a renewed modern and practical touch.
Another example of properties for sale in this cosy village is this 835 m2, ten-bedroom, seven-bathroom property for sale for €890,000, currently used as a hotel and restaurant. It has large terraces and outdoor spaces, making it exceptionally charming.
Finally, with a more moderate price, €500,000, is another rural property in Ullastret. The property consists of a plot of 4.749 m2, a 630 m2 plot of land, a house of 130 m2 and six commercial warehouses, which add up to 900 m2 altogether.
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