Montesquiu Protected Natural Area

The Castle Montesquiu regional park is a relatively small natural area located at the northern edge of the Osona region, within the Pre-Pyrenees. It is comprised of the towns of Montesquiu, Sant Quirze de Besora, Santa Maria de Besora and Sora.

Two parallel mountain formations cross the park from north-east to south-east: the spurs of the Bufadors mountain range, close to the northern end, and the central area of the Rovira hill. The river Ter also crosses vertically over the western side.

The park's landscape is shaped by forests, riverbanks, natural meadows and fields. The dominant arboreal species are the white oak - in the suntraps -, as well as red fir and Scots pine - in the shaded areas. However, there are also various examples of central European trees such as beech and lime trees.

The most common crops are fodder and grains. Numerous wild boars also live in the forests, prized assets for hunters.

The most notable building within the park is the one that gives it its name, the Castle of Montesquiu, which is essentially a large fortified house. It has been documented since 1285, although most signs seem to indicate that it was built over a 9th century tower and belonged to the lords of Besora. In the 17th century it was extensively restored. As of some years ago, the building has become equipped as a museum and convention centre. In the castle's surroundings there is a farm used as a shelter, it also houses the park's information centre.

On the grounds there are several country houses that are likely to be of medieval origin. However, they have undergone restorations that have removed the earliest aspects. Nevertheless, we can trace the footsteps of our ancestors at constructions such as the les Codines stream's medieval bridge and the pre-Romanesque chapel of Sant Moí. The park offers signposted walking routes with varying degrees of difficulty. Some of the main points of interest to uncover on these walks include Font Codineta and the ponds of the Vallfogona stream.