The castle was commissioned by King James II to intimidate the rebellious Count Hugo V of Empúries.
Construction ceased around 1301 when the strategic necessity for the fortress diminished.
None of the four planned corner towers were fully completed to their intended height.
The castle contains no evidence of a permanent water source, such as a well or cistern, suggesting it was intended for short-term garrisons rather than long-term occupation.
The masonry displays marks made by medieval stonecutters, many of which are still visible on the interior walls.
Montgrí Castle is a 13th-century military fortification situated atop the 303-meter-high Montgrí mountain in the Baix Empordà region of Catalonia. Construction began in 1294 under King James II of Aragon as a strategic defense against the Counts of Empúries, though it was never finished. The structure features a square floor plan with four cylindrical corner towers and a central courtyard. It lacks a roof and internal living quarters, reflecting its unfinished state. The site serves as a primary hiking destination, accessible only by foot via steep, rocky trails from the town of Torroella de Montgrí. From the battlements, visitors can view the Ter river delta, the Medes Islands, and the Gulf of Roses.
The crenelated top of the walls, looking toward the Medes Islands and the coastline.
Wear sturdy hiking boots, as the path is composed of loose scree and uneven rock.
Bring at least two liters of water, as there are no facilities, shops, or water sources at the summit.
Start your ascent early in the morning to avoid the intense Mediterranean sun, as there is zero shade on the mountain trail.
Attempting the climb in open-toe sandals or flip-flops; the path is rugged and prone to causing ankle injuries.
Practice 'Leave No Trace' principles; take all trash back down the mountain as there are no bins on site.
