It may not be the town with the largest wall in Spain, but the unique and peculiar character of the town in Nules, in the province of Castellón, well deserves greater recognition. Not in vain is it the only completely walled town in the Valencian Community, classified as Asset of Cultural Interest and a highly recommended visit for any lover of history, Mediterranean culture and picturesque enclaves.
We talk about Mascarell, a small town with only 200 inhabitants that is completely protected by a solid stone wall, and can only be accessed through two doors that act as entrances and exits, to the east and west of the town. It is, without a doubt, a unique enclave with which it almost seems that the visitor travels back in time to the Middle Agesa past that the town itself protects and praises with various festivities and events throughout the year.
Although the first written source documenting this town dates back to 1310, its origins seem to date back as a settlement to the 13th century. Mascarell was born as a result of the expulsion of the moriscos from the town of Burriana, who after their escape settled in the place where the town and its wall now look impressive, very close to Nules.
With the Moors completely expelled from Spain centuries later, the place, already with the primitive walls, was almost depopulated in the 17th century, until little by little it experienced a gradual repopulation that ended up creating the town. completely intramural. Simply put, the town decided not to grow beyond its solid walls.
The old defensive moat is today a irrigation ditch which, in addition to being a living witness of its medieval history of Muslim heritage, serves today as irrigation for the orchards outside the town, where it also sports a beautiful garden that respects that cultural essence and the Mediterranean soul, which contributes to creating a very welcoming space.
Logically, Mascarell is not a large town, so its visit can be done in half a day, taking advantage of a getaway to the beautiful area of Castellón offered by the municipality of Nules and its surroundings. With intricate streets that exude history and corners to discover, the historic center also hosts buildings of heritage interestsuch as the 18th century town hall and the parish church, built at the end of the 17th century.
Any season is recommended to visit this historic town, but it is always more attractive to do so during the celebration season. In addition to the local festivals at the end of August, with their typical festivals, we must mention the Mascarell Medieval Fairan event with historical reenactments and shows that takes place the first weekend in November.
Valencian Community (Total Guide – Spain)
*Some prices may have changed since the last review
Photos | Juan Emilio Prades Bel – B25es
In DAP | The best dishes of the unfairly unknown gastronomy of Castellón
In DAP | The beautiful medieval Valencian town to travel back in time and take a dip in the middle of nature