In the heart of Catalonia, a narrow tongue of rock rises vertically amid forests, supporting the remains of a unique medieval fortress. Castell de la Popa is one of Catalonia’s most striking examples of rock architecture – a structure that seems to blend seamlessly into the landscape.
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From the top, the views extend across 360 degrees over the surrounding valley. The sensation is one of being suspended in the air, with the forest stretching out on either side of the rock.
Less than an hour from Barcelona, this enclave in the Moianès region has become one of the most remarkable getaways in inland Catalonia for those seeking nature, history and spectacular panoramas.
An 11th-century rock castle in El Moianès
Castell de la Popa, also known as Castellcir Castle, is a medieval fortress documented since 1014. Much of the preserved structure dates from the 11th century.
During the Middle Ages, it served as a strategic point for monitoring the valley and controlling the Castellcir-Tenes stream. Its elevated position allowed for visual control of the territory, a key defensive advantage at the time.
The name “La Popa” comes from the shape of the rock, which resembles the stern of a ship. This distinctive silhouette has given rise to both its name and its most recognisable image.
The rock formation measures approximately 100 metres in length and around 7 metres in width, reinforcing its character as a rock castle perfectly integrated into the natural environment.
Over the centuries, it lost its military function, was later used for agricultural purposes and was eventually abandoned.
It is currently protected as a Cultural Asset of National Interest (BCIN), the highest category of heritage protection in Catalonia.
What remains today of Castell de la Popa
The castle is in a state of consolidated ruin, and access to the interior is prohibited due to the risk of collapse. Even so, the visible remains allow one to understand its medieval structure.
The following are preserved:
- Remains of the perimeter walls
- The base of the main tower
- Defensive structures adapted to the rock
- The Romanesque church of Sant Martí de la Roca
The combination of architecture and geology is what makes this visit truly special.
How to get to Castell de la Popa from Castellcir
The castle is located in the municipality of Castellcir (province of Barcelona), within the natural setting of the Moianès region.
Access combines driving and hiking. You can drive to the Ca L’Antoja junction, next to Sant Andreu Church. From there, you'll have to walk.
The most common route starts from Plaça de l’Era, in front of Castellcir Town Hall. The full circular route is approximately 8–9 kilometres long, without major technical difficulty, and is suitable for a moderate level of fitness.
Hiking boots are recommended, and it is advisable to download a map in advance, as signage is limited in some sections of the forest.
What to see near Castell de la Popa
The visit can be complemented with other points of interest in Moianès, a region known for its rural heritage and wooded landscapes.
- Castellcir: A small municipality with a peaceful atmosphere, surrounded by forests and traditional houses.
- La Balma d'en Roma: A natural cave linked to popular legends and old tales of bandits.
- Moianès Routes: Signposted trails between farmhouses and viewpoints, including the Sauva Negra, a protected forest within the Pla d'Espais d'Interès Natural.
- Church of Sant Andreu de Castellcir: Romanesque temple documented since 939, with elements from the 11th century.
A different kind of getaway near Barcelona
The image of the castle perched atop the rock explains why this corner of El Moianès has become one of the most highly recommended day trips from Barcelona. It is a region that has yet to feature prominently in many tourist guides, and part of its appeal lies precisely in that sense of discretion.
Visiting Castell de la Popa offers a different way to explore Catalonia’s medieval history, in a setting where the landscape is as important as the architecture.
