Castell de Vila-seca, 15th-century castle in Vila-seca, Spain.
Castell de Vila-seca is a 15th-century castle located in a small town near Tarragona in eastern Spain. The building displays a rectangular plan with two stories above ground, large windows on the noble floor, and balconies projecting from an angular tower.
The castle was founded between 1162 and 1168 during the Christian repopulation of the Camp de Tarragona region as a defense tower for the Olzina family. In 1899, Count Sicart acquired the property and commissioned architect Enric Fatjo i Torras to carry out extensive renovations that created its present neo-medieval character.
The castle now hosts contemporary art exhibitions through a partnership between the Vila Casas Foundation and the local city council. Walking through its rooms, you encounter modern works displayed in spaces that once served defensive and residential purposes.
The building is open to visitors on multiple days throughout the week, though it is wise to check current hours as they vary with the seasons. Guided tours are offered on specific weekdays and weekends, providing deeper insight into the site's history and architecture.
The building preserves layers of different periods because the neo-medieval renovations at the turn of the 20th century deliberately blended historical features with modern improvements. This visible combination of old and new makes the site a fascinating study in how architecture evolves while maintaining its character.
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