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The History of Peralada Castle: A Legacy that Endures Through Time

There are places where history, art and landscape coexist in perfect harmony, creating a unique atmosphere capable of moving everyone who visits them.

Located in the heart of Empordà, Castell Perelada is the soul of a centuries-old legacy that has preserved its essence while evolving over time, becoming one of the most exclusive destinations in Catalonia for unforgettable experiences.

A Castle Steeped in Centuries of History

Built in the 14th century by the Counts of Peralada, one of the most important and long-standing noble families in Catalonia, Peralada Castle has witnessed centuries of history. From its origins, its architecture and privileged location made it a symbol of power and prestige.

Surrounded by an estate spanning more than 77,000 m², the castle is set within spectacular gardens designed in 1877 by Franco-Belgian landscape architect François Duvillers. Inspired by European Romanticism, their pathways, centuries-old trees and enchanting corners invite visitors to slow down, wander at leisure and discover the beauty of the landscape throughout the year.

Peralada Castle

The Castle Reborn

The contemporary history of Peralada Castle began in 1923, when Miguel Mateu acquired the property and undertook a meticulous restoration, respecting the heritage value of the estate. His aim was to restore the castle to its former splendour and adapt its spaces to house the remarkable art collections that today form part of Peralada’s cultural heritage.

Nowadays, the property remains in the hands of the Suqué-Mateu family, who have kept this legacy alive, preserving its history and bringing it closer to new generations.

Peralada Castle

A Unique Cultural Heritage

One of Peralada’s greatest treasures can be found in the former Carmen Convent, home to some of the property’s most valuable collections.

The church, library, glass and ceramics collection and wine museum form a journey through the artistic and cultural richness that has accompanied the castle for more than a century.

Among its most emblematic spaces is the Carmen Cloister, an elegant courtyard surrounded by Gothic arches and columns carved with floral and geometric motifs. The serenity of this remarkable setting makes it one of the most special places within the monumental complex.

Next to it stands the Carmen Church, featuring Gothic architecture and a single nave. Its restoration, carried out at the end of the 19th century, recovered much of its original character and restored prominence to the Gothic architecture that has been transformed over the preceding centuries.

Carmen Church

A Setting Where History Continues to Be Written

The grandeur of Peralada Castle lies not only in its past, but also in its ability to continue creating unforgettable memories.

Today, the castle forms part of Perelada Resort, a world where culture, gastronomy, wine, wellness and leisure come together in a single destination. Restaurants such as Restaurant Castell Perelada were awarded one Michelin Star and two Soles Repsol, and, Restaurant L’Olivera located at the 5-star Hotel Perelada, together with the prestigious Perelada Festival, our innovative Perelada Winery, and a wide range of experiences, makes every visit different and special.

Peralada Castle

A Place to Celebrate Unforgettable Moments

Surrounded by centuries-old gardens, medieval architecture and one of the most important colonies of white storks in the area, Peralada Castle offers an incomparable setting for celebrating one of the most important moments of your life.

Visiting Peralada Castle means discovering a place where heritage, nature and emotion come together to create a unique experience. A destination where the past remains alive and where every visit opens the door to new stories waiting to be told.

Peralada Castle

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