The revolutionary history of the medieval village with stately homes, wine cellars and sundials

The Priorat region, in the north of the province of Catalonia, is home to beautiful small towns that not many in Spain know about, but which are true treasures well worth exploring. Such is the case of Porrera, a town of just over 400 residents nestled in the heart of Tarragona . In addition to hiding authentic gems, it has a fascinating history that makes it unique.

Its architectural heritage combines with a stunning natural setting (it's located at the gateway to the Sirana River protected area) to create a fascinating landscape. Furthermore, this Catalan town is known for its numerous revolts and the revolutionary spirit of its inhabitants, which has earned it a somewhat unusual reputation over time. Therefore, it's an excellent rural tourism destination for a weekend getaway or even a day trip.

The story of Porrera, the most unruly town in Spain

The first recorded record of Porrera's existence dates back to the mid-12th century, and for many decades there were numerous uprisings and disputes over control of the town. However, finally, in 1263, after it passed into the hands of the Escaladei Charterhouse (the oldest in Spain), it was walled and fortified, and a castle was built. After years of fighting, everything seemed to have finally calmed down, although a few centuries later, battles resumed their prominence.

Although it was briefly occupied by France during the Franco-Spanish conflict during the Thirty Years' War, it was during the War of the Spanish Succession, at the dawn of the 18th century, that the lives of the residents of Porrera truly changed forever, as they sided with the Habsburgs. Therefore, once the war ended, the walls (of which barely any vestiges remain) and the castle were destroyed , which is now a mere memory.

What to see in Porrera, a town of wines and sundials

Despite this, the medieval character of this town located in the valley of the Cortiella River, which runs through the village, can be seen in many corners of its historic center, where you will find treasures of great beauty such as the neoclassical Church of San Juan Evangelista from the 18th century or a beautiful stone bridge, while in the surrounding area you can visit the beautiful Hermitage of San Antonio, from the 16th century.

What most catches the attention of curious visitors to the town is the large number of sundials , with as many as 14 of these treasures scattered throughout the municipality. They date back to the 19th century and can be explored along a magnificent route that runs through some of the town's charming corners, where you can also come across a multitude of stately homes.

Porrera has always been an agricultural town (its name derives from the significant leek cultivation there), although its wines are particularly noteworthy, making this Tarragona town a paradise for history and rural tourism lovers, as well as for wine enthusiasts.

How to get to Porrera

The town of Porrera is just over a half-hour drive from Tarragona itself. To get there from the Catalan city, simply take the T-11 , then exit onto the N-420, and finally take the winding TP-7401 road, which leads directly to the town's historic center.