Castell de Rubí

The Castell de Rubí, originally known as Castillo de Rubí, stands as a testament to the rich historical tapestry of Rubí in the Vallès Occidental region of Spain. This magnificent structure, which has undergone extensive restoration in the 1990s, is now in excellent condition and serves as a cultural beacon in the area. The current castle building consists of three main sections – the west (noble part), north, and east – which surround a courtyard on the southern side. Since 1996, it has been transformed first into an Urban Ecomuseum and, from 2000, into the Municipal Museum Castell, a designation that underscores its cultural and historical significance.

A Glimpse into the Past

The Castell de Rubí is a grand residential manor that was transformed into a farmhouse over the centuries. Historical records indicate that the castle was reconstructed in the 17th century. In 1963, J. Miralta wrote an article titled What Will Be the Future of the Castell de Rubí? in which he stated: Archaeologically, the castle does not seem to be of much value, but it contains valuable windows and is intimately linked to the history of Rubí. Its construction dates back about three hundred years... The castle could be adapted as a home for a cultural institution, as it contains large rooms and some of its dependencies could be adapted to the work deemed most appropriate. Naturally, a profound repair would be necessary.

The last tenant of this manor was Miquel Vila, a successor of generations of his family since the mid-18th century. There are archaeological remains near the perimeter of the castle from the Romanesque period, adding another layer of historical intrigue to this remarkable site.

Historical Significance

The history of the Castell de Rubí dates back to 986, when the church of Sant Pere de Rubí was first documented. The castle itself is mentioned in historical records from 994, when Bishop Vives of Barcelona purchased a quarter of a mill in the Rio Rubio area. The castle was confirmed as property of the Sant Cugat del Vallès monastery by Pope Sylvester II in 1002. The counts of the region held eminent domain over the castle, and it was listed among the series of castles that Countess Ermessendis gave as a guarantee to her son Berenguer Ramón I in 1023.

Seniofred de Rubí was appointed as the castle's veguer (a feudal official) by the counts in 1017. Subsequently, the Claramunt lineage settled in the area, and by the 11th century, Saurina de Claramunt married Ramón de la Guàrdia, whose son Guillem inherited the castrum de Rivo Rubeo while maintaining the Claramunt surname. The castle was rebuilt as a fortified house around 1223, reflecting its strategic importance.

Phases of Transformation

The Castell de Rubí has undergone several phases of transformation throughout its history:

Phase 0 (986-1233)

This phase corresponds to the original fortress, located about 200 meters west of the remains of the Sant Genís hermitage.

Phase 1 (1233-14th century)

In 1233, Berenguer de Rubí received permission from King Jaume I to build a domus (house) for defense. This L-shaped manor served as the residence of the lord of Rubí and housed the Templars, who perished in Jaume I's crusade. In 1361, the Torrelles family converted the manor into their castle, abandoning the Sant Genís fortress. The building was expanded and took on a military fortification appearance, serving as the administrative center of the Rubí feudal domain.

Phase 2 (15th century)

During this phase, the civil and military jurisdiction held by the lord of Rubí passed from the Torrelles family to King Joan I. The building was transformed into a manorial residence, losing its previous military character. Notable features from this period include the access door to the balcony overlooking the courtyard and the eastern section with its battlements, Gothic windows, and interior murals depicting ships.

Phase 3 (16th-17th centuries)

The castle was transformed into a farmhouse during this period, with minimal structural changes.

Phase 4 (18th century)

In the early 18th century, the castle continued to function as a farmhouse. A single-sloped roof was added to the eastern section, leading to the disappearance of the battlements on the eastern wall and the filling in of spaces on the western wall.

Phase 5 (19th-21st centuries)

In this final phase, the building underwent significant degradation and wall demolitions. It changed hands among various families until it was acquired by the Rubí Town Council in 1983. The council remodeled the building, establishing the Castell-Ecomuseu Urbà in 1996 and later the Municipal Museum Castell in 2000. In 2010, an amphitheater was constructed on the eastern side of the castle.

Today, the Castell de Rubí stands as a symbol of the region's rich history and cultural heritage. Visitors can explore its storied past, admire its architectural features, and immerse themselves in the tales of yesteryears that have shaped this remarkable landmark. Whether you're a history enthusiast or a casual tourist, the Castell de Rubí offers a captivating journey through time that is not to be missed.