Prades

02History

The history of Prades is marked by its strategic significance, with a castle built by the Arabs and fortified in 1090. It was granted a charter in 1159 and saw the expulsion of the last Saracens in 1170. The town developed economically with its own market by 1200, highlighting its importance during the medieval period.

• 1153 Castle surrendered to Ramón Berenguer III.
• 1159 Granted a charter of population by Ramón Berenguer IV.
• 1193 Alfonso II of Aragon appointed Pere de Déu as mayor.
• 1835 End of feudal rights, though the Dukes of Medinaceli retain the title.
• First Carlist War Prades served as a headquarters for Rafael Tristany.

03Economy

Prades' economy is primarily driven by mountain tourism, which has become a significant source of income for the municipality. Traditional agriculture, once the mainstay, now plays a secondary role, with notable crops including potatoes, hazelnuts, and chestnuts.

Main economic activity

Mountain tourism

Traditional crops

Potatoes, hazelnuts, chestnuts

Protected designation

Patata de Prades (Indicación Geográfica Protegida)

Prades is a municipality in Tarragona, Catalonia, known for its reddish sandstone buildings and rich history.

04Cultural Heritage

The architectural heritage of Prades includes a Gothic parish church dedicated to Santa María, featuring a Renaissance facade. Remnants of ancient walls and two portals can still be seen, while a porticoed square with a Renaissance fountain serves as a focal point.

• Church of Santa María Gothic style with a Renaissance facade.
• Ancient walls Only remnants and two portals remain.
• Ermita de la Virgen de l'Abellera Built in 1570, renovated in the 18th century.
• Main festival Celebrated on the third Sunday of October in honor of Santa Florentina.