The fortress with towers, moats and walls where one of the most impressive hotels in Catalonia operates and the mystery of room 712

Located on top of a promontory, 100 km from Barcelona, ​​it is much more than a place to sleep. He Cardona Parador -hotel of the Paradores network of Spain- is a portal to the pasta medieval fortress that represents the possibility of traveling for a while to the times when power, war and history were resolved between walls and towers.

The parador is on the remains of a fortress dating from the 9th century and is considered a treasure of medieval architecture and also a luxury refuge to enjoy the region of Catalonia.

They say that the Cardona castle where the Parador operates resisted for eleven centuries without being taken.

Its origin dates back to the times of Charlemagne, who reconquered the enclave from the Muslims. Later, the fortress became one of the most imposing and strategic of the region, in the hands of the lords of Cardona, one of the most influential families of the Catalan nobility.

Its role in history was fundamental in conflicts such as the Civil Wars, the War of Succession and the Spanish War of Independence.

One of the most emblematic elements of the fortress is the Maiden Towera 10-meter-high cylindrical structure that stands out on the horizon. And it has a dark history.

They say that in the 11th century the Viscount of Cardona invited the Muslim prince Abdullah to his lands. The prince crossed paths with Adalés, Cardona’s youngest daughter, in the castle gardens.

They fell in love and a story of forbidden and tragic love was born: when her brother discovered the affair, they decided to punish her.

“Let the Almighty decide: let’s put Adalés in the tower. If it rains, he will drink. If not, he will die of thirst,” said one of his brothers who was a priest.

The young prince offered treasures and even renounced his religion to free her, but nothing changed the terrible decision made. Adalés died in the tower and Abdalá tried to enter the castle without permission: the guards pierced him with their swords.

The room 712 It is the closest to the tower and is considered very special since many guests say they have heard or seen “the lovers” – ghosts, spirits – during their stay.

As part of the Paradores network, this hotel offers visitors a perfect combination of history and comfort. The original structure of the fortress is preserved with moats, Gothic walls and towers that recall its medieval past.

But inside, the fortress was restored with the aim of offering an environment of luxury, tradition and a lot of comfort.

He restaurant is part of the experience in the Parador since it is located in the old refectory of the castle and is distinguished by its gallery of pointed arches.

With seasonal and local products, the menu is based on the traditional cuisine of the Bagés region and is distinguished by its simplicity. Each dish is a tribute to the local flavors of Catalan culinary tradition.

Currently and until the end of February, the Paradora is closed for renovations. The works focus on energy efficiency, several improvements related to comfort and a new decoration of the inn.