“Lost, isn’t it?” That’s the question historians often ask about Castell d’Olorda. It is a castle shrouded in mystery. Welcome. We stand near the elusive Castell d’Olorda. Its exact location remains a topic of debate among historians. Some believe it stood atop Puig d’Olorda. Others suggest it was part of a building next to the Santa Creu d’Olorda Hermitage.
Castell d’Olorda’s story dates back centuries. It is a tale of royal ownership and strategic importance. Documents from 1365-70 confirm its existence. In 1355, King Pere the Ceremonious sold Castell d’Olorda to Pere des Llor. Twenty years later, it belonged to Berenguer de Relat. He also owned Castell Ciuró.
These two castles, Castell d’Olorda and Castell Ciuró, shared a common history. Yet, Castell d’Olorda primarily served as a watchtower. It was a crucial function. This role led to its earlier deterioration. By 1430, records describe it as a badly damaged structure called Castro del Orde.
The jurisdiction of Castell d’Olorda once included Vallvidrera. It also included Sant Bartomeu de la Quadra. However, its lords preferred Castell Ciuró. It offered better facilities and communication.
Over time, Castell d’Olorda changed hands. In 1471, Lluís de Relat owned it. By 1537, it belonged to Lluís Pou. In 1542, Lluís Desvalls sold it to the Requesens-Zúñiga family. They already possessed the barony of Castell Vell de Rosanes.
Today, the Castell d’Olorda is identified as a large house. It sits near the Santa Creu d’Olorda church. This building is in ruins. It was built upon an old medieval tower. This tower was one of several fortifications. The transformation into a residential castle occurred in the 14th century. Berenguer de Relat, the royal treasurer, owned it then.
The Castell d’Olorda was constructed in stages. It had a rectangular inner courtyard. The facade facing the square contains the remains of the ancient tower. This is the oldest part of the structure. On the north side, fragments of Gothic windows remain. In modern times, it served as a rectory.
Imagine the watchmen atop Castell d’Olorda. They scanned the horizon. They looked for any sign of danger. They linked the castle to the defense of the area. Though its stones are weathered and its story fragmented, Castell d’Olorda remains. It is a reminder of Barcelona’s medieval past. Its legacy lives on in the hills of Collserola.