Castell de Monstoriu

One of the oldest archaeological sites in Catalonia, with Iberian relics dating back to the 3rd and 4th centuries, it wouldn't be until the 10th century that a fortification would appear on the hill. The base of the current castle dates back to the 11th century, and it became the seat of the viscounts of Girona which later became the Viscounts of Cabrera. In the 14th century, the castle was expanded and became the palace of the Viscounts of Cabrera who ruled over 20,000+ people at the time. The castle endured several sieges and attacks, most famously from King Pere III of  Aragon from 1365-1371. The castle was sieged by 1200 men but stood strong due to concentric walls, high ground, and a well-made water supply system. Over the next few centuries, the castle would protect local villagers and farmers, as well as be a major player in the Catalan civil war in the 1400's and saw several other smaller conflicts 1500's and 1600's. Montsoriu has one of the most interesting tours of any castle in Catalan. You begin with a short 2.8km walk up the mountain to the castle and then discover the castle, its fortifications, history and archaeological studies. For the guided tour, adult tickets cost €6, 13-15 year old tickets cost €4, and children under 13 get in free.