We Visit Cardona, A Medieval Treasure In Barcelona

A salt deposit turned Cardona into a privileged town. For centuries it has been known as the town of salt, dominated by a castle and a medieval past that is breathed in each of its corners. Its historical center stands out, which has been declared an Asset of Cultural Interest. Today we are going to meet this beautiful villa.

Cardona , its salt mines and its spectacular castle

Cardona belongs to the province of Barcelona. It is located in a valley in central Catalonia , on the banks of the Cardener River. It is a picturesque town where there is evidence of a great medieval past dominated by the construction of its fortress-castle on top of a hill in the 8th century.

The salt mines and the location of its castle made Cardona an important enclave. This was the reason why a large population arrived here and a barony was installed, which is why it was a viscount, county and duchy.

Over time Cardona lost importance, although over the years it regained its importance. Salt mining began in 1912, giving the town more life. Nowadays these mines can be a very interesting visit, combined with their other places of interest.

What you cannot miss in Cardona

1. Salt Mountain Cultural Park

The Salt Mountain is one of the great tourist attractions of Cardona. It is estimated that it was formed when the sea entered the Cantabrian area millions of years ago. Sedimentation of salts, especially sodium, and evaporation created this huge salt deposit.

The mountain emerged after a series of tectonic movements. It must be taken into account that what is seen on the surface is only a small part of the large amount  of what is underground, which even reaches more than a thousand meters below ground level.

The Salt Mountain Cultural Park has several galleries with explanatory panels, which show how the exploitation of salt developed. In addition, it is possible to go through it through guided tours of at least one hour.

A small train takes you to the entrance door and on this route you can see two of the shafts of the old salt mines and the monument to the miner, dedicated to the mine workers. Already in the tunnels and galleries you will be able to see stalactites between the white salt walls.

You cannot miss the so-called Sistine Chapel of the Salt Mountain, it is a huge space full of colors and stalactites. There it is possible to taste the different edible salts that can be found in the mine.

2. Castle of Cardona

Another unavoidable visit in Cardona is its castle. It is considered one of the most beautiful castles in Catalonia. It has a great history, in fact, there are no less than 11 centuries that have its strong walls.

This medieval fortress is an impressive architectural complex  that, added to its elevated position, makes it a spectacular place. It currently houses the Parador de Cardona and guided tours are offered from the town.

The oldest preserved part of the castle is the Torre de la Minyona, dating from the 11th century. It is isolated from the rest of the complex and only reaches 13 meters in height, although it used to measure more than 20 meters.

Inside the castle, the beautiful Patio de Armas, the castle well, the cloister and the Collegiate Church of Sant Vicenç, a true Romanesque jewel, are of interest. Finally, the Gothic tomb of Duke Ferran de Cardona and his wife, full of interesting details, also deserves attention.

3. Old town of Cardona

Strolling through the streets of the old town of Cardona is like going back in time. In it you can see a large number of unique and historical buildings from medieval times. If you want to know more about its history, you can go to Cardona Centro Medieval, located in Plaça de la Fira. There they have different audiovisual resources to show you the history of the place.

Don’t forget to stroll along Major Street, Plaza del Mercat and the Church of Sant Miquel. If that seems little to you, you can go to the surroundings, where you will find possibilities for excursions in the Cadí-Moixeró Natural Park and you can admire the sources of the Llobregat river, a landscape that you will not forget.