Castell d'Escornalbou, Medieval monastery and castle in Riudecanyes, Spain
Castell d'Escornalbou is a medieval monastery and castle featuring a Romanesque church with side chapels and a converted cloister that now functions as a garden terrace. The complex joins religious structures with later residential spaces and collections positioned on a hilltop above the surrounding region.
Alfonso II of Aragon founded the monastery in 1165 with six monks under Tarragona's archbishopric oversight. An early 20th-century restoration by a diplomat and scholar transformed it into a noble residence housing collections and libraries.
The early 20th-century transformation into a noble residence brought libraries and art collections to the religious complex, blending sacred spaces with scholarly pursuits. Visitors can still sense this mix of spiritual and intellectual life in how the rooms are arranged and furnished.
The outdoor areas are open to visitors, though interior guided tours are temporarily suspended due to ongoing renovation work. The location sits on a hilltop with steep pathways, so sturdy footwear and time for climbing are advisable.
The site sits at 586 meters elevation within forests of cork oaks and black pines that resist strong Mistral winds. This height and hardy vegetation create a quiet setting quite different from the flatter coastal lands below.
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