Castle of Vilella

The Castle of Vilella occupies an elongated enclosure of about 2,000 square meters atop a large, rounded rock at an elevation close to 142 meters, overlooking the Llautó pass between two mountain ranges. The fortress is enclosed by a thick perimeter wall that in some areas rises to approximately seven meters high. Its construction primarily employs rammed earth bound with lime mortar, a technique known locally as “tapia,” which consists of compacted layers of earth to create solid walls.

On its northern slope stands the main entrance, marked by a rectangular tower about four meters tall. This gatehouse features two doors facing in opposite directions, designed to complicate enemy access. The outer wall of the tower is built with a robust base supporting a wooden platform above, while the thinner upper section of the wall forms a walkway for defenders.

Toward the northwest side, thick rammed earth walls, nearly 1.20 meters thick, extend from the main enclosure toward the entrance tower, reinforcing this vulnerable point. At the western end of the castle, adjoining the perimeter wall, there is a rectangular structure that likely functioned as an additional defensive tower. This building has two doors opening to the south and east, along with two arrow slits facing west, allowing defenders to cover the approach to the entrance.

Sections of the eastern and southeastern walls have disappeared, especially around the highest and most rugged sections of the rock formation where the fortress is built. Inside the enclosure, traces of masonry foundations and fragments of brick reveal the former presence of modest habitations, though no large or elaborate buildings remain.

Access routes to the site include a trail from Almiserat beginning near the Monte Vernissa urbanization along the Barranco del Castillo ravine, and a longer path from Luchente, which can be partially traveled by vehicle up to roughly 500 meters from the castle before continuing on foot.