Esglesiola De La Casa Cremada: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Comprehensive Guide to Roses Historical Sites
Date: 14/06/2025
Introduction
Esglesiola De La Casa Cremada, nestled in the Empordà plain near Roses, Spain, is a captivating open-air archaeological site that offers a unique insight into the region’s prehistoric and early medieval heritage. The site, featuring the evocative ruins of a small rural church and surrounded by a landscape dotted with dolmens and menhirs, demonstrates the enduring spiritual significance of this area. As a freely accessible destination, it welcomes history enthusiasts, hikers, and cultural travelers to explore its ruins and the stunning Mediterranean surroundings (Roses Tourist Office).
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Historical & Archaeological Context
- Visiting Information
- Enhancing Your Visit
- Practical Tips
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Summary & Call to Action
- References
Historical & Archaeological Context
Prehistoric Roots
The Casa Cremada area forms part of a larger megalithic landscape dating back to the Late Neolithic and Chalcolithic periods (3500–2500 BCE). Dolmens like Casa Cremada and Creu d’en Cobertella and menhirs such as Menhir de la Casa Cremada I serve as reminders of ancient funerary and ritual traditions. These monuments highlight the longstanding sacredness of the landscape (visit.roses.cat).
Early Medieval Transition
Between the 7th and 11th centuries CE, the rise of rural Christianity led to the construction of modest churches like the Esglesiola De La Casa Cremada. Likely serving a dispersed agrarian community, this church marks the continuity of spiritual use within the region (visit.roses.cat).
Architectural Features
The church’s rectangular floor plan features walls built from unworked local stones in a herringbone pattern, bonded with mud—characteristic of early medieval rural architecture (Wikipedia - Edifici de la Casa Cremada). Some later annexes suggest the site may have also served monastic purposes. Today, only partial walls and foundations remain, offering a glimpse into the construction techniques and lifestyle of the time.
Integration with the Megalithic Landscape
Esglesiola De La Casa Cremada is embedded within a network of prehistoric sites accessible via well-marked hiking trails, including the famous Dolmen de la Creu d’en Cobertella and Menhir de la Casa Cremada I. This continuity from megalithic to medieval times illustrates the layering of sacred traditions in Roses (wikiloc.com).
Visiting Information
Hours and Tickets
- Open Year-Round: The site is accessible from sunrise to sunset, with no entrance gates or ticketing.
- Free Entry: No fees are required to visit Esglesiola De La Casa Cremada or the surrounding megalithic monuments.
How to Get There
- Starting Point: Begin at the outskirts of Roses, with marked trails leading to the site.
- Hiking: The Esglesiola is best reached on foot, following the “Itinerari Megalític” or “Ruta de la Pedra Seca.” The route passes several megalithic monuments.
- By Car: Park in designated areas near Roses and continue on foot along the hiking trail. GPS coordinates for the site: 42.2560° N, 3.1870° E (wikiloc.com).
- Public Transport: Reach Roses by bus; from the town center, either walk or cycle to the trailhead.
Accessibility
- Terrain: The approach is via natural, uneven paths. Accessibility for visitors with reduced mobility is limited.
- Recommendations: Sturdy walking shoes, water, and sun protection are essential.
Enhancing Your Visit
Nearby Attractions
- Megalithic Route: Visit Dolmen de la Creu d’en Cobertella, Menhir de la Casa Cremada I & II, and Barraca de Pedra Seca (femturisme.cat).
- Roses Old Town & Citadel: Explore medieval streets, local gastronomy, and the archaeological complex of the Ciutadella.
- Cap de Creus Natural Park: Enjoy dramatic coastal landscapes, hiking, and birdwatching (en.wikivoyage.org).
Guided Tours & Events
- Occasional Heritage Walks: Local cultural associations and the Roses Tourist Office host guided walks and workshops—check their website for schedules (Roses Tourist Office).
- Interpretive Resources: On-site panels and digital maps provide historical context.
Responsible Tourism & Conservation
- Stay on Marked Trails: Protect both the archaeological remains and surrounding natural environment.
- Respect the Site: Do not climb on ruins or remove stones/artifacts.
- Leave No Trace: Carry out all litter and avoid disturbing local wildlife.
Local authorities and heritage organizations manage conservation efforts, with community involvement in promoting responsible visitation (Wikipedia - Edifici de la Casa Cremada).
Practical Tips
- Best Seasons: Spring and autumn offer mild weather and beautiful scenery.
- Combine Experiences: Pair your visit with local cuisine, festivals, and other historical sites.
- Navigation: Use hiking apps like Wikiloc or obtain maps from the Roses Tourist Office.
Photography tip: Early morning or late afternoon provides the best light for capturing the ruins and panoramic views.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the visiting hours for Esglesiola De La Casa Cremada?
A: The site is open-access and can be visited from sunrise to sunset, year-round.
Q: Is there an entrance fee?
A: No, visiting the Esglesiola and nearby megalithic sites is free.
Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Guided tours are offered occasionally by local cultural groups and the Roses Tourist Office; check their website for current offerings.
Q: How do I get there?
A: Walking or cycling from Roses along the marked Megalithic Route is recommended. Parking is available near the trailhead.
Q: Is the site accessible for people with reduced mobility?
A: Due to uneven natural terrain, accessibility is limited.
Q: What should I bring?
A: Sturdy shoes, water, sun protection, and a camera.
Summary & Call to Action
Esglesiola De La Casa Cremada stands as a testament to Roses’ deep cultural roots, bridging the region’s prehistoric ritual landscape with early medieval Christian tradition. The site’s modest, evocative ruins and surrounding megalithic monuments offer a unique journey through time—accessible to all who respect and preserve its fragile legacy.
To enhance your visit, leverage digital resources such as the Audiala app for updated maps, guided routes, and event information. Combine your exploration with visits to local historical sites, natural parks, and cultural events for a comprehensive Roses experience.
By visiting responsibly and engaging with educational resources, you contribute to the preservation of this hidden gem in Catalonia’s Costa Brava. For detailed information, event updates, and walking guides, consult the Roses Tourist Office and related digital platforms.
References and Further Information
- Roses Tourist Office - Megalithic Complex
- Wikiloc: Esglesiola de la Casa Cremada Route
- Femturisme - Itinerari Megalític i de la Pedra Seca
- Wikipedia - Edifici de la Casa Cremada
- Travel Inspires - Roses Spain Guide
- Spain Info - Roses Destination Guide
- En.Wikivoyage - Roses
Visuals and Media Suggestions:
Include high-quality images of the Esglesiola ruins, megalithic monuments, and panoramic views of Roses. Use descriptive alt text such as “Esglesiola De La Casa Cremada ruins in Roses historical site” and “Dolmen de la Creu d’en Cobertella near Roses.” Interactive maps and virtual tours can further enhance visitor engagement.
Internal Links (suggested):