Sant Celoni

Sant Celoni is a municipality in the Vallès Oriental that stands out for its privileged geographical location.

The municipality, covering 64.4 km², consists of two main urban centers: Sant Celoni, the most populated, and La Batllòria, located approximately 5 kilometers to the northeast. The municipality also includes Vilardell, Sant Martí de Montnegre, Olzinelles, and Fuirosos, towns in the Montnegre area that had previously formed municipalities with various groupings.

Straddling the provinces of Barcelona and Girona and very well connected by both road and rail, Sant Celoni has become a benchmark municipality in the Baix Montseny region and is one of the main gateways to the Montseny Natural Park and the Montnegre i el Corredor Park, natural areas of great richness and scenic beauty.

Sant Celoni offers visitors a rich cultural, natural, and gastronomic heritage, as well as a wide variety of nature trails with options for all audiences.

History

The first Celonians lived in scattered houses grouped around the parish of Sant Martí de Pertegàs. In the 11th century, the lords of Montseny ordered the construction of a chapel dedicated to Sant Celoni at the foot of the royal road from Barcelona to Girona.

By the beginning of the 13th century, there were already 72 houses, and by the mid-14th century, the population had already reached nearly a thousand. In 1370, the Hospitallers approved the Ordinances of Good Government, some of the first in Catalonia, demonstrating the town's strength and well-organized structure. In 1405, Sant Celoni became the property of the Cabrera family, thus completing their domains in Montseny.

During the Middle Ages, the town of Sant Celoni was in the hands of the Hospitallers of Saint John of Jerusalem. The fortified city is what we know today as the Força district. Sant Celoni's economy was governed primarily by crafts and the market, where all the surrounding villages found the tools and implements needed to cultivate the land. This is evidenced by the trades found in the town: cloth merchants, merchants, weavers, quilters and blanket makers, wool combers, tailors, shoemakers, cobblers, tanners, saddlers, carpenters, blacksmiths, millers, bakers, butchers, and so on.

The importance of wool and linen weavers led to the emergence of the textile industry in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, also aided by the arrival of the railway in 1860. This vitality, traditionally linked to trade, agriculture and livestock farming, has been replaced by the considerable industrial growth that took place mainly throughout the 20th century, which in recent years has become the main driving force of the local economy, complemented by the dynamism of the commercial sector and the strength of the services sector.

Places of interest

Churches of Montnegre

Delve into the region's religious history by visiting the Montnegre churches, authentic testaments to local tradition and devotion. With their ancient facades and architectural details, these churches invite you on a journey back in time, offering a fascinating insight into Sant Celoni's cultural past.

Farmhouses and traditional elements

Discover the rural essence of Sant Celoni with its farmhouses and traditional elements. The farmhouses, with their ancient stones and picturesque surroundings, transport visitors to a bygone era, reminding them of the life and culture of the Catalan countryside. Take the opportunity to explore the most remote and hidden corners, where every corner reveals a unique story.

Sculptures and other monuments

Delight in the sculptures and other monuments that adorn the city streets, giving them a touch of art and beauty. From majestic statues to small sculptures, each work of art will captivate you with its expression and meaning. Delve into Sant Celoni's past and present while admiring these artistic wonders.

Montseny Natural Park

Enjoy a natural immersion in Montseny Natural Park, a verdant paradise of breathtaking beauty. Its majestic mountains, crystal-clear rivers, and lush forests invite you to explore and connect with nature. From peaceful hikes to exciting adventures, Montseny offers experiences for all tastes and adventure levels.

Montnegre Park and the Corridor

Ice Well

Immerse yourself in the region's industrial history with a visit to the fascinating Ice Well. This ancient structure, which served to preserve food in the summer, is a testament to Sant Celoni's technological past. With its well-preserved structures and interesting architectural details, the Ice Well will transport you to another era.

Nature routes and walks

Embark on exciting nature trails and walks that will take you to the most beautiful and secret corners of Sant Celoni. From coastal paths to mountain trails, these routes will allow you to discover the diverse landscapes and natural beauty of the region. Breathe in the fresh air, listen to the birdsong, and let yourself be captivated by the tranquility of nature.