Queralt Castle, built in the 10th century right on the border, retains its majestic profile. The castle saw the birth of one of the area’s most influential dynasties: the Queralt family, counts of Santa Coloma.
Dating back to at least the 10th century, it is mentioned as the boundary castle between the bishoprics of Vic and Barcelona. Known as “Castro Auripini”, it served to protect the counties of Osona and Barcelona against raids by the Moors. It formed part of the possessions of the Claramunt family in the 12th century and fell under the control of the Cardona family in the early 14th century. The tower is particularly impressive.
Manresana Castle, mentioned in records dating back to the 11th century, was governed by the Balsareny family. Thanks to its tower it served as a strategic site in the Battle of Prats de Rei in 1711, during the War of the Spanish Succession, when it was used by Count Starhemberg as a base for directing the Austrian troops.
This castle is also known as the Castle of King Jaume I, who spent long periods here when he travelled to inland Catalonia. In 1265 the king declared it a permanent royal residence. It consists of a single building attached to a crenellated tower and enclosed by a crenellated wall.