Santa Maria de Gallecs, Romanesque church in Mollet del Vallès, Spain.
Santa Maria de Gallecs is a Romanesque church in Mollet del Vallès featuring a Latin cross floor plan, a rectangular apse, and a bell tower that was adapted from an original bell gable structure. The building displays typical regional Romanesque details with thick stone walls and modest proportions.
The church has been documented since the early 10th century, when Bishop Eimeric consecrated a church in the area in 904, marking the origin of this religious community. Over centuries, the structure underwent adaptations, with the bell tower later taking its present form.
The church takes its name from the surrounding land and stands isolated in a rural setting, reflecting its original purpose as a gathering place for scattered communities. Visitors encounter a place that represents an ancient village identity despite the modern surroundings.
The building sits in a rural setting with limited vehicle access, so plan travel time accordingly. Visiting works best during warmer months when the surrounding paths and roads are most accessible.
The site faced demolition during a controversial 1970s urban development scheme, but local efforts led to its protection as a natural space in 2005. Today the location shows how a small church became a symbol of community resistance against unchecked expansion.
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