Puig-Reig: Industrial History, Romanesque Art and Routes

A self-guided tour of Puig-Reig

The “Ruta dels Templers i els Obrers” is a self-guided tour through the rural area and town centre of Puig-Reig. Along the way, visitors can discover four of the municipality’s main tourist attractions. The route thus brings the countryside and town centre together in a single tour. If you want to get to know more than just one aspect of the town, it offers a way to explore different sides of the municipality.

History between church and industry

The route’s historical span reaches back almost 1,000 years: it begins with the consecration of Sant Martí Church in 907 and extends to the closure of Colònia Pons in 1992. These dates mark different subjects and a long period of time. Colònia Pons brings the industrial history into sharper focus: the monumental complex was built between 1875 and 1920 and was designated a Cultural Asset of National Interest in 2017. The construction period and the designation refer to different aspects—the creation of the complex and its recognition as a cultural asset.

Another historical connection leads to Puig-reig Castle. The viscount and troubadour Guillem de Berguedà chose it as the site of his residence. Alongside the dates associated with Colònia Pons, a specific person thus offers another way into the town’s history: Guillem de Berguedà is central to the story of the castle, while the history of Colònia Pons can be understood through its construction period and designation.

Romanesque art and landscape

Sant Marçal lies on the road between Puig-Reig and Casserres and is an example of early Romanesque architecture; it may date to the 11th century. Sant Andreu de Cal Pallot preserves unique paintings within the municipality, alongside its Romanesque architecture. The two sites reveal different aspects of the local heritage: the architectural classification is central to Sant Marçal, while Sant Andreu also features paintings.

La Madrona, also known as “Roques de Madrona,” offers a change of scenery. At 685 metres, it is one of the highest points in the municipality of Puig-Reig; from there, panoramic views extend in all four directions. Unlike the churches and castle, the focus here is on elevation and far-reaching views. This offers a different perspective on Puig-Reig from its architectural and artistic history.

Routes and textile history

The Ruta de les Colònies offers another connection to the area’s trails: the section that passes through Puig-Reig links the colonies from Cal Prat to l’Ametlla de Merola via various paths and nature trails. While the Ruta dels Templers i els Obrers brings the rural area and town centre together in a self-guided tour, this route focuses on the links between the colonies and the types of paths. Trail conditions can change, so check them before setting out.

At the Museu de la Colònia Vidal, the focus is on cotton processing. Individual visitors can visit the museum on Saturdays, Sundays or public holidays without booking in advance. In the textile hall, visitors learn about the entire cotton-processing process using machinery from 100 years ago and can watch a demonstration of a working “teler de garrot” loom. Check visiting hours and capacity before your visit.

Discover more destinations: Piera, Rajadell, Sabadell, Vic, Sant Joan De Vilatorrada, Lliçà D'amunt, Campins, Castellterçol.

For the broader travel overview: Barcelona.