Travellers visiting Castellfollit de la Roca are astonished at the location of the medieval town which is situated high on a cliff in Spain’s La Garrocha region in Girona
A Spanish town leaves travellers in awe because it is suspended 164ft from the ground.
Castellfollit de la Roca is also in shadow of famous city and has become one of the most pictured travel destinations in the country. More than 1,000 years old, it looks like it is only just sitting on the edge of a 164-foot-high cliff. The edge of the cliff looks even more precarious because it is so narrow and its houses sit right on the edge in a long line.
It is situated in the La Garrocha region in Girona and is part of the neighbouring town of Olot. Its heady location was caused by geologic activity and the cliff was formed as a result of two overlapping lava flows.
Fascinating Spain says the first happened around 217,000 years ago, when lava flow came from volcanoes in the Batet de la Serra area, near Olot. The other lava flow, which formed the cliff, came from volcanoes near San Juan les Fonts 192,000 years ago.
The astonishing European destination feels like has been frozen in time and has a tiny population of only 961. Atlas Obscura says its features “still carry the characteristics of its medieval origin, and the city centre features ramparts that fortified the town during the civil war,”
The town has become known for its dramatic setting overlooking the Fluvià River. And its unique geological formation and medieval architecture, creates a charming picturesque location which draws visitors in search of a destination with natural beauty and intriguing history.
The publication adds: “Many houses and streets in the city center are also built of the dark, volcanic rock that serves as a pedestal for the town. The main street of Castellfollit winds through the entire town, narrowly pressed between houses on both sides, straining to remain on the cliff face.” The destination has two rivers called Fluvià and Toronell, which are situated on each side of the cliff. It is also known for its beautiful sunsets.
After arriving at Castellfollit de la Roca two landmarks are an essential part of any visitor’s travel itinerary and guides say “must be seen in person”. San Salvador church is the first attraction and can be found at one end of the cliff.
A 13th century construction, it has a square bell tower and openings on each side. cFascinating Spain says: “The bell tower is crowned by a dome decorated with small pilasters. It still preserves several reused basalt ashlars and a late Romanesque window.”
The other must-see location is a clock tower in Sant Roc Square, where the town hall can also be discovered. The top of tower is known for its clock and its bell tower., while a fountain can also be seen near the clock tower’s base.
