Castell de Montsonís is a historic fortress built in 1024 in the upper region of Lleida to defend against Muslim invasions, featuring two square towers and a central entrance with heraldic shields. The castle, along with surrounding fortifications, defended the border between Old and New Catalonia for over a century until Lleida's final conquest in 1149. Underwent significant 16th-century renovations and later provided refuge for Way of Saint James pilgrims. Still inhabited by descendants of its founding family since 1209 and now headquarters for the Castells Culturals de Catalunya Foundation, visitors can explore rooms including a private oratory, pilgrim's chamber, and prison with period furnishings, plus a secret passage to the Monastery of Salgar discovered during the Spanish Civil War.
