The Montsonís Castle is a fortress built in 1024 to protect the area from potential Muslim invasions. The exterior looks like something out of a fairy tale, adorned with large battlements and two towers flanking the grand central entrance. Inside, you can discover the prison and the secret passage that exits from the cellar, among other rooms.

Located in the center of Montsonís, this majestic castle was built in 1024 to protect the area from potential Muslim invasions until the reconquest of Lleida in 1149, at which point the first reference to this castle appeared. It dominates the Salgar gorge and the Artesa de Segre valley.

It is an inhabited castle, which was the first to open its doors to the public for visits. Although many modifications have been made over the years, the current owners have been restoring its original appearance, and, as a good fortress, it has very characteristic elements

On the main façade of the castle, you can see two square towers, and it has three entrance gates. The central one is the main entrance, with a segmental arched lintel, featuring heraldic shields on the lintels. Above, you can see a paired lancet window, arrow slits, and some large Renaissance windows. The top part of the castle resembles something out of a fairy tale, with large battlements and a keep tower that had to be reconstructed after the peasant revolt of the Remences in 1460. The flag still flies from the tower because the castle is still inhabited. Right next to it, there is a Baroque church, dedicated to Saint Urbà, which connects to the castle itself.

Inside, you will find various rooms, such as the shield room, a private oratory, and the pilgrim’s chamber. Additionally, you can visit the prison, which still preserves the chains and furniture from that period. In the cellar, during the Spanish Civil War, a secret passage leading to the Monastery of Salgar was discovered. This passage had been sealed off 130 years ago due to the phylloxera plague that had affected the vineyards in the area.

Currently, it is also the headquarters of the Castells Culturals de Catalunya Foundation, which promotes activities in these ancient fortresses. The monument offers virtual tours of the complex, guided tours, and theatrical performances to bring the castle closer to visitors. Also, the Montsonís Shop offers tastings, traditional breakfasts, dinners, and a wide variety of local products.