Guimerà, a village with a population of 361 that lies at an altitude of 555 metres above sea level, is located in the comarca (local district) of Urgell in the Lands of Lleida . In 1975, this settlement was declared a Bé Cultural d’Interès Nacional (BCIN – Site of National Cultural Interest) on account of its unique ensemble of historic houses and buildings.
This is a vila medieval (medieval town) with a quite unique structure: the labyrinth of streets that wind up to its church and castle form a truly original pattern of architectonic structures that bring to back memories of the Middle Ages. Visitors can wander though the streets, or climb to the top of the village and enjoy a panoramic view over the river Corb valley from the old tower. Guimerà also offers a range of traditional natural products that add to this experience. These include olive oil, wine, pork and pastry products. Come and visit us!
What to see
THE MEDIEVAL TOWN
This is an interesting ensemble of buildings. Just let yourself get lost wandering in and around the streets, gateways, small squares and hidden corners as you relive the distant past. The old stone houses, with the detailed decorative elements on their doors, windows and arcades are a really enriching distraction. The streets are narrow and the light creates interesting shadows and sharp contrasts.
THE CASTLE
A cylindrical tower rises out from amongst the castle ruins and dominates the valley, overlooking villages that date from the 10th and 11th centuries. In 1985, this site was declared a Bé Cultural d’Interès Nacional.
THE PARISH CHURCH OF STA. MARIA AND THE ALABASTER ALTARPIECE BY JOSEP M. JUJOL
The church, which was built between the 11th and 12th centuries, stands on top of a large rock. It was constructed following instructions from the local lord Guerau Alemany de Cervelló and his wife Geralda de Rocabertí at a time in which the settlement experienced notable growth. The coat of arms of its patrons can still be seen on the main door, which is decorated with Gothic elements that are also carved into the stonework near the entrance.
The MAIN SQUARE
Going down the irregularly shaped streets, visitors will come to the Plaça Major (Main Square), which houses a series of ancient houses. There is also a rather raised street along one side of the square.
THE SANCTUARY OF LA BOVERA
The municipal area of Guimerà is very closely connected to the Cistercian order and with the Santuari de la Bovera. The sanctuary is located on a hilltop about 2 km from Guimerà from where it is possible to view the landscapes of the whole comarca. Next to the present day hermitage, visitors will find the remains of a Romanesque style cloister, dating from the 12th century. This formed part of the female Cistercian monastery of La Bovera, which was linked to that of Vallbona de les Monges and founded in around the year 1176.
CONVENT OF VALLSANTA
Just off the road before reaching Guimerà itself, visitors will come across the ruins of a Gothic style church with large windows, which formed part of a monastery built around the year 1235. It was operative until the 15th century when the few remaining nuns finally left. There were originally three Cistercian monasteries in this comarca: the monastery of Pedregal (near Tàrrega), that of Vallbona de les Monges and the convent of Vallsanta.
For guided visits to Guimerà, contact Sr. Josep Balcells. Tel: 973 303 313
Traditions
On Easter Monday and on the first Saturday in September, the inhabitants of and other parts of the local area meet at the Santuari de la Bovera (Bovera Shrine), which has a considerable religious devotion.
Around the second week in August there is a Medieval Market in Guimerà. This festival, which has been declared of local district interest, fills the village with a mixture of light, colours, festivities, music, magic and fire.
For more information see:
www.guimera.info/medieval
Where to eat
Restaurant Hostal Sant Jordi
Ctra. de Vallfogona, 2
Tel. 973 30 31 92 – Fax 973 30 33 78
santjordi@guimera.info
www.guimera.info/santjordi
Open: all year round (closed on Tuesdays).
Services: air conditioning, terrace, facilities for the disabled, credit cards, pets accepted, private meals, banquets, bus tours accepted, car parking.
Specialities: salads, hors d’oeuvre, meats and fish.
Capacity: 200 people.
Café Cal Moretes
Ctra. de Tàrrega, 2
Tel. 618 03 39 86
Specialities: sandwiches, bar snacks and one dish meals.
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