A Silent Village in the Mountains
La Mussara is one of the most mysterious places in Tarragona, Catalonia. Hidden in the Prades Mountains, this abandoned village feels frozen in time. When you walk through its empty streets, broken houses, and silent ruins, you feel a strange mix of beauty and sadness.
This is not a place full of tourists and noise. La Mussara is quiet, wild, and emotional. It is perfect for travelers who love history, abandoned places, legends, and deep stories.
History of La Mussara Before It Was Abandoned
La Mussara has a long and interesting history. The village existed at least since the Middle Ages. It was built at a high altitude, around 950 meters above sea level, which gave it strong natural protection.
For centuries, the people of La Mussara lived from farming, animals, and forestry. Life was hard but organized. Families were close, traditions were strong, and the church was the heart of the village.
In the 18th and 19th centuries, La Mussara reached its best time. The village had houses, a church, small farms, and a community that supported each other. Even with cold winters and isolation, people stayed because this land was their home.
Why the Citizens Abandoned La Mussara
The abandonment of La Mussara did not happen in one day. It was a slow and painful process.
The main reasons were:
- Very harsh winters with snow and strong winds
- Poor roads and difficult access
- Lack of jobs and modern services
- Young people moving to cities for better life
By the early 20th century, life became too difficult. Schools closed. Shops disappeared. Medical help was far away. Slowly, families left one by one.
The last residents left La Mussara around the 1950s. After that, nature started to take the village back.
Ghost Legends and Strange Stories of La Mussara
La Mussara is famous for its ghost legends. Many visitors say this place feels strange, heavy, and emotional.
One popular legend talks about people who enter the village and lose their sense of direction. Some say they hear voices, footsteps, or see shadows moving between the ruins.
Another story says that La Mussara is a place where time feels different. Locals believe the village is a “door” between worlds.
Some visitors report:
- Sudden silence with no birds or wind
- Feeling watched
- Strange cold sensations
Whether you believe these stories or not, La Mussara has a powerful atmosphere that stays in your mind.
The Church of Sant Salvador: The Heart of La Mussara
The most important building in La Mussara is the Church of Sant Salvador. It stands strong even today, despite the damage of time.
The church was the center of village life. People came here for prayers, celebrations, and funerals. It was also a place of protection and hope.
Today, the church is partially ruined, but its structure is still impressive. When you stand inside, you can feel the past. The broken walls, open sky, and silence create a very emotional moment.
This is one of the best spots for photography and quiet reflection.
La Mussara in Recent Times
In recent years, La Mussara has become popular with:
- Hikers
- Urban explorers
- Photographers
- Travelers interested in abandoned places
The village is still officially abandoned. There are no services, no shops, and no water supply. Nature is slowly destroying the buildings.
Local authorities try to keep the area safe, but visitors must be careful. Some structures are unstable.
Despite this, La Mussara remains one of the most fascinating abandoned villages in Spain.
How to Reach La Mussara
La Mussara is best reached by car.
- Nearest city: Reus or Tarragona
- Drive direction: From Vilaplana or Alforja
- Road conditions: Narrow and mountain roads
Public transport does not go directly to La Mussara. Hiking is possible for experienced walkers.
Costs and Practical Travel Tips
- Entrance: Free
- Parking: Free roadside parking
- Best time to visit: Spring and autumn
- Avoid: Foggy or rainy days
Useful tips:
- Bring water and snacks
- Respect the ruins
- Do not enter dangerous buildings
Hidden Gems Around La Mussara
- Amazing mountain views of the coast
- Wild nature and silence
- Beautiful sunsets
- Nearby villages with traditional food
After visiting La Mussara, you can eat in nearby towns like Vilaplana or Reus, where you can try Catalan dishes such as grilled meats and local wines.
Curiosities and Interesting Facts About La Mussara
- La Mussara means “place of watching”
- It was one of the highest villages in the area
- Some locals refuse to visit because of legends
- Fog can appear suddenly and change everything
Final Thoughts: Why La Mussara Stays With You
La Mussara is not just an abandoned village. It is a story of human struggle, hope, fear, and memory. Walking through its ruins is like walking through time.
If you love places with soul, history, and mystery, La Mussara will stay in your heart long after you leave.
Keep your heart open and your passport ready
