Guided Tour of the Old Town of Castell d'Aro

Benedormiens Castle, the origin of the village of Castell d'Aro, is first mentioned in records dating from 1041, when the religious authorities, nobles and knights of the region entrusted the monastery of Sant Feliu de Guíxols with the guardianship and custody of the castle and its entire sphere of influence.

The village gradually grew up around the castle, and the more remote farmhouses were fortified, some with defensive towers. In 1970, the castle was restored, preserving its oldest section, dating from the 11th century, which is the part closest to the church.

In 1983, rooms inside the castle were converted to host art exhibitions. Since then and up to the present day, the town has become a cultural hub thanks to major events such as the Living Nativity Scene (the oldest in Catalonia), the floral displays in honour of Saint Isidore, and the Medieval Market.

In Castell d'Aro, you will also find the Carrilet Station Park, which formed part of the railway line inaugurated in 1892 and ran between Sant Feliu and Girona. This line operated until 1969, when it became obsolete. It is now the Greenway, and the old station serves as the Mountain Biking Centre.

The old town of Castell d'Aro has been declared a Cultural Asset of National Interest.

Route: Station Park, Plaça Lluís Companys, Benedormiens Castle (exterior), Church of Santa Maria (interior visit), Belén Viviente viewpoint.