Rojals
Location
Rojals is a hamlet located southwest of Montblanc, in the Conca de Barberà region, at an altitude of 979 metres, making it the highest settlement in the municipal area. The village stands on the northeastern edge of the Muntanyes de Prades and enjoys a privileged setting, with wide-ranging views over the surrounding natural landscape.
History
Originally, Rojals served as a Saracen watchtower until 1151, when it was conquered by Hug and Guillem Ramon Ponç. From that point onwards, the site gradually developed into a permanent settlement as part of the feudal repopulation process.
For centuries, Rojals functioned as an independent municipality together with the settlements of els Cogullons, la Bartra and el Pinetell de Rojals, all made up of scattered farmhouses. This situation remained unchanged until 1940, when Rojals was officially incorporated into the municipality of Montblanc following an agreement supported by the vast majority of residents and landowners.
Highlights
The most significant heritage site is the parish church of Sant Salvador, of Romanesque origin and probably built in the mid-12th century. The church was rebuilt and enlarged in the second half of the 18th century and occupies a commanding position at the top of the ridge.
The village preserves a distinctive mountain architecture, evident in its streets and squares, where stone construction and prominent chimneys are defining features.
The territory of Rojals is also notable for its fifteen prehistoric rock art sites, dating from between 9000 and 2000 BC, which were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998. The shelters at Portell de les Lletres, Mas d’en Llort and Mas d’en Ramon d’en Bessó are open to visitors.
In addition, the area is home to nearly fifty traditional farmhouses, some now in ruins, and offers outstanding viewpoints such as the viewpoint Mossèn Armand Puig.
Finally, Rojals is a natural gateway to the Muntanyes de Prades and a popular starting point for hiking and mountain bike routes, making it an especially attractive destination for lovers of nature and scenic landscapes.