Farmhouse Route

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The farmhouses have played a major role in the different stages of the settlement of Arenys de Munt. Some of them, to face the Turkish danger, always present in our area, and to ensure a certain security in a field shaken by the growing banditry, chose to build defensive towers. In this regard, farms helped sustain population growth and territorial cohesion. In addition, the diversity of crops and resources available to farms allowed their owners to obtain a hegemonic position within rural society.

It is a circular route that will allow us to discover 5 farmhouses of great historical, architectural and cultural interest. That will bring us to learn defense systems in front of the enemy, being a pirate, bandit or a river that overflows. We remind you that all these farmhouses are inhabited and their owners have special care in the conservation of the buildings. We must be respectful and not harm the environment.

Following the Canet’s old path, we cross an area occupied by orchards and other crops. It is a flat relief, very close to the stream. Soon we walk along the stream of Ca l'Amar, where we can observe two systems to defend themselves from avenues. The stone walls or the reeds served to prevent the rivers from entering the fields in the event of rain and damaging the crops. These artificial margins are  called “mot”, a word which is very used in Arenys de Munt.

In front of Ca l'Amar we find a mine that covers the house. The mines are a frequent system for collecting water and wells for the supply of farms. At Arenys the mine trade got to forge valuable professionals in this field and got to be respected force in Catalunya and beyond borders.

We pass through the “Plana d'en Sala”, one of the few open spaces that still exist in the municipality and that assure us the presence of animal and vegetable species different from those found in the surrounding forests. From this natural viewpoint, we begin the returning path, between a variety of landscapes and crops. Highlighted are Roca’s cherry plantations, which you can sample at the annual fair held every 24th of June.

We thank Gaspar Casals for his collaboration and support on this route.