QR03 GROUND FLOOR

The main entrance is located on the East side of the castell and it is framed by a large semi-circular arch with huge masonry voussoirs. This entry provides access to two large spaces: the Vestíbulo (Entry Hall) and the Claustro (Cloister). The Calabozo (Dungeon) and the Sala Vilaragut (Vilaragut Room) are located in the semi-basement. And on the same floor, there is the Library and access to the towers of the castell.

In front of this large complex, there was a garden with a wide variety of exotic plants, among which, we highlight the Orange tree, protected by a wall with a height of 20 feet. It is also possible to contemplate the “acequia del Terç” (Terc irrigation canal) where water once circulated which is now covered.

Vestíbulo (Entry Hall)

The Entry Hall allowed the Nobles to enter the Palace with their large carriages. In this space on the right side, there is a unique element: an Escalera cabalgador (Attached stairway) with large masonry blocks which provides access to the northeast mezzanine, where the Tower Room is located, which was formerly a study.

Underneath it, there is the library of the castell, the former stables, and on the other side of the entry hall, there are the reception desk and administration offices.

This space is framed by a large Arco escarzano (Segmental arch) on its left jamb; there is an ashlar with an inscription. It is a Roman tombstone which serves as a reminder of the past and it states the following: “Pompeya Postumiana, hija de Lucio, hizo (este monumento) a Maura, benemerita liberta”. (“Pompeya Postumiana, daughter of Lucius, made (this monument) to Maura, benemerita liberta”.) This stone leads us to believe that it was an intentional action to display reminders of past ages within the Renaissance admiration of classic culture.

The Artesonado de madera (Coffered wood ceiling) is defined by 19 beams in an east-west direction and 18 lanes which are covered with very large and elaborate casetones (coffered ceiling sections). In this ceiling, we can find the fastening elements where a large iron lamp was installed.

 

  • Click here for audio guide with sign language.
  • Audio guide: