Collsuspina: Local History and Cultural Heritage

Collsuspina offers several starting points for a trip focused on local history and Romanesque cultural heritage: the historic town center, Sant Cugat de Gavadons, and the centuries-old oak trees in Bosc de Casanova. Archaeological traces, an annual traditional gathering, and different routes round out the picture. You can first decide whether to focus your stay on architectural history, an outing, or the Aplec.

Historic Town Center and Architectural History

Carrer Major and Collsuspina’s old town developed in the 18th century from several inns along the royal road. The town center is therefore linked to a development that began with the inns on this road. Can Xarina was the first house built there and is now an inn. Together, these two local histories offer insight into how the old town center and its earliest houses came about.

Another point of reference in time is the church of Sant Cugat de Gavadons. It is Romanesque, and its structure is characteristic of the 12th century. The church was first mentioned in 948 under the place name Gavadons. The 948 mention and the architectural history characteristic of the 12th century are two distinct historical points of reference.

Cultural Heritage and Traces in the Landscape

In the protected area of Bosc de Casanova, you can see the three centuries-old oak trees. Visiting these trees is a distinct nature-focused experience alongside the destination’s historic sites and buildings.

Archaeological finds are also part of the area’s history. Ancient graves have been excavated near l'Espina. Below the settlement of Collsuspina, at l'hort del Paleta, an inhabited cave has yielded archaeological finds. Both references point to traces of earlier human activity, while identifying different find sites.

The Poua de glaç de l'Espina can be described by its measurements: it has a diameter of 9 meters, but is not perfectly round. Its surviving walls are 5 or 6 meters high. The site is privately owned, and access is difficult. Bear these conditions in mind if you include the Poua in your travel plans.

Routes, Traditional Gathering, and Getting There

Two different details are useful when planning hikes. The Bosc de Casanoves – El Querol route is an easy circular walk. The route to the hermitage of Sant Cugat de Gavadons is 6.47 km long. For the first, its circular route and difficulty level help you assess it; for the second, the distance is specified. Check local conditions before setting out.

A hydrographic junction is also located in the municipality of Collsuspina, near Sant Cugat de Gavadons. The catchment areas of the Ter, Besòs, and Llobregat meet there. This is a geographical feature distinct from the histories of the churches and towns.

An Aplec, a traditional gathering, is held every year on May 1 at the church of Sant Cugat de Gavadons. If you want to plan your trip around this date, check that year’s program in advance.

Public bus line 710 runs along the route l'Estany – Moià – Castellterçol – Moià – Collsuspina – Tona – Vic. The timetable is valid from November 18, 2024; check the current service before traveling. The line is partially adapted for people with reduced mobility.

Discover more destinations: Sant Adrià De Besòs, Olost, Centelles, Vallromanes, Manresa, Sant Cugat Sesgarrigues, Pruit, Sant Esteve Sesrovires

For the broader travel overview: Barcelona.