Nucli antic d'Horta de Sant Joan, Medieval old town in Horta de Sant Joan, Spain.

Nucli antic d'Horta de Sant Joan is a medieval settlement spread across three linked sectors on a hilltop, with streets that spiral upward in rings. Narrow lanes connect the different areas and lead toward the former castle site at the center.

Horta is first documented in 1153, in the donation of Miravet Castle after the 1148 conquest of Tortosa. Alfonso II granted a town charter in 1165 and gave the place to the Templars in 1174; a new charter followed in 1192. The 14th-century walls were built under Peter the Ceremonious, and in 1640 the town was sacked during the Reapers' War.

The townscape blends Gothic and Renaissance styles, with craftsmanship evident in carved doorways and stone details across different eras. These architectural layers show how builders adapted their techniques across centuries as the settlement developed.

The climb through the narrow lanes is steep and takes time, especially reaching the former castle grounds at the top. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water, as there is little shade along the path.

Pablo Picasso spent two stays in this village, where he developed artistic ideas that influenced his later work. The chimneys and architecture of the place show traces of his artistic attention even today.