Best castles around Ordis are situated in a region with a significant historical past, characterized by its medieval fortifications. The area features castles, some with origins dating back to the 10th century, often strategically positioned on elevated terrain. These structures historically served to control mountain passes and defend against various conflicts. Visitors can explore architectural remains and observe different building stages within these historical sites. The guide lists 16 castles to discover around Ordis.
Last updated: May 6, 2026
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...short or long hike possible 👌🥾...great view
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The octagonal fortress Castell de Sant Ferran, covering 32 hectares, was built to accommodate 6,000 people and 500 horses. It is the largest bulwark fortress built in Europe in the 18th century.
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Panoramic views of the Alt Empordar maritime mountains. You have two benches and a picnic area next to the motorhome and parking area. The neighborhood just below the castle is a bit problematic, so don't leave your bike behind because it can be stolen by the group of young people who come up to smoke boil and...
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https://castellsantferran.com/es/horarios https://castellsantferran.com/es/horarios https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uB1WPtwXzCo The Castle of San Fernando in Figueres, known as Castell de Sant Ferran, is the largest bastioned fortress in Europe, its construction beginning in 1753 under the reign of Ferdinand VI of Bourbon. It was designed by military engineer Juan Martín Zermeño and could house a garrison of 4,000 men. During the War of Independence, it was occupied by Napoleonic troops and later recovered by the Catalan migueletes. In the Spanish Civil War, it served as a concentration point for the International Brigades and a refuge for the Spanish Artistic Treasure, and in 1939 it hosted the last meeting of the Republican Cortes in national territory. It was subsequently used as a barracks until the 1960s and was opened to the public in 1996. The fortress has suffered significant damage throughout its history, including the destruction of part of its walls and structures during explosions in the Civil War. .
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Located on a hill, at the end of the Castell pujada, it is a large bastioned fortification built in the 18th century following the project of the commander of the Corps of Engineers Juan Martín Zermeño. It occupies an area of 32 hectares with a perimeter of 3,120 meters, and the cisterns, located under the parade ground, hold 9 million liters of water. The castle of San Ferran, which had a capacity for 4,000 men, currently constitutes a heritage legacy of the first order, the largest monument in Catalonia and the largest modern fortress in Europe. Due to its enormous dimensions, the sophisticated construction techniques applied in the military engineering of the time, and its excellent state of conservation, a visit to the Sant Ferran castle constitutes a unique experience.
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The temple of Sant Martí del Far, located at the highest part of the town, was part of the castle built at the end of the s. XIII. It is a single nave church with a rectangular apse. The vault of the nave is pointed and followed, the presbytery has the same shape. The cover, located to the west, has three semicircular arches in gradation, lintel and smooth tympanum. The most remarkable element of this facade is the upper half-point arched window, of large dimensions and with saw-tooth decoration. A saddle bell tower with two semicircular arches and an upper corsair supported by nine corbels complete this facade. The walls of the apse rise above the level of its vault. In this area, on the roof, a set of long loopholes opens around this rectangular apse. The upper part of the wall is finished by a corsera formed by small pointed arches. The fortification of the apse and that of the bell tower on the front are from the same period as the rest of the temple; on the other hand, on the side walls of the nave are raised stone walls finished with rectangular battlements that correspond to a late reform, possibly from the 18th century. On each of the side walls of the nave there are also five gargoyles and in the apse we find four with a very simple decoration. The entire church presents a set of well-spaced ashlars that form perfectly consecutive rows. In the upper part of the apse where the loopholes open there is a frieze made up of three rows of ashlars of a darker color that stands out within the monument as a whole. The church of Sant Martí del Far has been documented since the 13th and 14th centuries. It seems that it was rebuilt during the 13th century, when the Count of Empúries had the castle built. It is a Romanesque temple that indicates the transition to the Gothic style.”
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oi0HgiBDuF0The imposing building that we can see today was built in the 15th century on the remains of a medieval castle documented since 1149 and that in the century XIII was owned by Bernat de Creixell. Historians do not agree on whether the monastery of Sant Miquel de Fluvià had the superior lordship. In any case, we know that the Creixells passed by marriage to the Vilaguts and from these to the Rocabertís, already in the 15th century. It was at that time when the first major transformation of the castle took place and when Queen Joana Enríquez, mother of Ferdinand the Catholic, settled there for a while. Since then it has been in the hands of the descendants of Pere de Rocabertí, the Cardona-Rocabertí and then the Sentmenat and the Moxó. Maria Mercè de Sentmenat i de Patiño received the title of Marchioness of Sant Mori in 1893. The castle is located in the middle of the town. It is configured as a large massive block, rectangular in plan, with a central courtyard. The main portal is dovetailed and on the facades there are several bigeminated crown windows, decorated with noble coats of arms, one of which shows the fleurs-de-lis of the Vilagut. Other windows are the result of modern restoration. swIf you want, you can rent it for rooms or weddings... https://www.airbnb.es/rooms/30806789?adults=1&children=0&enable_m3_private_room=true&infants=0&pets=0&check_in=2024-02-29&check_out=2024-03-05&source_impression_id=p3_1704139137_peqk24%2FuplIlvbBN&previous_page_section _name=1000&federated_search_id=8a9627cf-4904-4024- 9e09-702153ebb233
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This church, of medieval origin, is part of the most important architectural heritage of the old town of Sant Mori, along with the Sant Mori Castle and other historical buildings. The church is an outstanding testimony of the history and architecture of the area, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the town.
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Ordis is located in the Alt Empordà region of Catalonia, Spain. While the name 'Ordis' itself might be less known for a specific castle, the region is rich in medieval history. For example, the nearby Castell d'Orís, dating back to the early 10th century, played a crucial role in controlling mountain passes and defending against Saracens, safeguarding the old Carolingian Spanish March. The area's castles often served strategic purposes due to their elevated positions.
The region around Ordis boasts several castles with deep historical roots. Sant Ferran Castle, though more modern, is the largest bastioned fortress in Europe, with construction starting in 1753. For older history, Sant Morí Castle was rebuilt in the 15th century on the remains of a medieval castle documented since 1149. Additionally, Sant Martí del Far Church and Castle includes a temple that was part of a castle built at the end of the 13th century.
Yes, several sites are suitable for families. Sant Ferran Castle is listed as family-friendly and its immense size and historical significance can be engaging for all ages. Sant Morí Castle is also noted as family-friendly, offering a glimpse into medieval life. Exploring the Historic centre of Vilaür, with its preserved parts of an old protective wall and medieval town structure, can also be an interesting family activity.
The area around Ordis offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for different sports. For running enthusiasts, there are several moderate running loops, such as the 'Running loop from Navata' or the 'Ordis – Church of Sant Julià in Ordis loop'. Cyclists can explore road cycling routes like the 'Figueres – Peralada loop' or more challenging options like the 'Rocacorba Summit Viewpoint – Mare de Déu del Mont Summit loop'. Gravel biking is also popular, with routes like the 'Gravel tour from Figueres to the high Garrotxa'. You can find more details on these activities in the running trails, road cycling routes, and gravel biking guides for Ordis.
While specific hiking trails directly to every castle aren't detailed, many castles are situated in scenic areas conducive to walking. For example, Castell de les Escaules is located on a hill overlooking a valley, offering opportunities for short or long hikes with great views. The region's general landscape, with its elevated castle positions, suggests that many visits will involve some walking or hiking to reach them. You can explore various running trails and gravel biking routes in the area, which often pass by historical points of interest.
The region around Ordis, being in Catalonia, generally enjoys a Mediterranean climate. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are often ideal, offering pleasant temperatures for exploring historical sites and engaging in outdoor activities without the intense heat of summer. These seasons also tend to be less crowded than peak summer months.
Many castles in the Ordis area are strategically positioned on elevated terrain, offering impressive panoramic views. For instance, Sant Ferran Castle provides panoramic views of the Alt Empordà maritime mountains. Similarly, Castell de les Escaules is noted for its great views from its hill-top location. The historical Castell d'Orís, though fenced off, is situated on an 'awe-inspiring rocky plateau' with immense views of the surrounding landscape.
The duration of your visit will depend on the specific castle and your interest level. For a large site like Sant Ferran Castle, which is the largest modern fortress in Europe, you could easily spend 2-3 hours or more exploring its vast grounds and structures. Smaller castle ruins or integrated church-castle sites like Sant Martí del Far might take 1-2 hours. It's always a good idea to check specific opening hours and any guided tour availability for each site.
Parking availability varies by castle. For example, Sant Ferran Castle has a dedicated parking area, including space for motorhomes, located next to the castle. For other sites, parking might be available in nearby towns or designated areas. It's advisable to check specific information for each castle you plan to visit.
Visitors to the castles around Ordis appreciate the rich historical context and the impressive architecture. The sheer scale of sites like Sant Ferran Castle and the well-preserved medieval elements of others, such as Sant Morí Castle, are frequently highlighted. The panoramic views from elevated castle locations are also a major draw, with many visitors sharing photos of the stunning landscapes.
While the guide focuses on prominent castles, the region is dotted with numerous historical sites. The Historic centre of Vilaür, with its preserved medieval wall sections and ancient church, offers a charming and perhaps less bustling experience than larger fortresses. Exploring the ruins of Castell de les Escaules, situated on a hill overlooking a village, also provides a sense of discovery away from the main tourist paths.
The castles around Ordis showcase a range of architectural styles, reflecting centuries of construction and reconstruction. You can see the massive, bastioned fortress design of the 18th-century Sant Ferran Castle. Earlier structures like Sant Morí Castle, rebuilt in the 15th century, feature Gothic-Renaissance elements, sometimes incorporating older Romanesque features. Sant Martí del Far Church and Castle displays a Romanesque temple with elements indicating a transition to the Gothic style, along with later fortifications from the 18th century.


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