The Séquia is the medieval canal that has allowed the growth of Manresa and the agricultural development of a great part of the Pla de Bages. Following the path that borders its route, of 26 kilometres with a minimum slope, constitutes a truly memorable experience: temples, fortifications, hydraulic works, houses and natural spaces transformed by water help us to understand the roots of this inland territory, in the heart of Catalonia.
Here you could download the map of the Sèquia.
Mapa SéquiaThe Séquia transports us, from the current configuration of its vineyard landscape and irrigated areas, to more than 3,000 years ago through one of the most important Iberian villages in Catalonia (El Cogulló, Sallent). The Séquia flow through the foot of a medieval castle (Balsareny) and a set of churches and farmhouses that remind us how this inland lived the feudal era and the birth of Catalonia itself.
At the same time, the Séquia is a major work of medieval engineering, built by the master of works Guillem Catà and with a slope of only 10 meters along its 26 kilometers length. Along the route you can find other hydraulic works, such as the Manresans lock, the aqueducts or the mines.
Since the middle of the 14th century, the Pla de Bages hasn’t been the same. The passage of the canal transformed fields, landscapes, and lives of people, while allowed the growth of Manresa. Along the way, the Sèquia crosses through forests, irrigated fields, wetlands, riverside forests and oak groves with high landscape interest.
The construction of the Séquia is surrounded by a strong charge of belonging to Manresa, mainly because of the mysterious light legend. This story explains how the works paralyzed by disputes with the bishop of Vic were finally completed. Manresa celebrates every year a feast honoring this symbolism on February 21st. Around the celebration, it takes place la Fira de l’Aixada (Hoe Fair). A medieval fair with a very familiar character that helps to explain the medieval history of Manresa.
