What is La Séquia?
La Séquia is the most important medieval hydraulic infrastructure in Catalonia and one of the most important ones of Europe
A 26 km canal that brings water from the river Llobregat to the city of Manresa
The construction of “La Séquia”, an epic story
In 1339, after several episodes of drought and famine, the Council of Manresa asked King Peter III for permission to build a canal that would ensure the arrival of water to the city forever.
In 1340 the construction began near Balsareny, but then the works stopped by the opposition of the Bishop of Vic, owner of some lands at the municipality of Sallent. After some years of dispute the works continued until the water’s arrival in Manresa, in 1383.
The arrival of a permanent flow of water made it possible to convert a large part of the municipality from dry land to irrigated land. Appart from that, the citizens could have water to drink and ensure water for the operation of the mills in the city of Manresa.
From the 17th century onwards, water was used for the first textile industries, which produced silk veils and later specialized in cotton ribbons.
This medieval work modified the landscape and favored the transformation of Manresa.
7 centuries of history
The use of water from La Séquia has influenced the social and economic history of the region
La Séquia, a unique heritage in Catalonia
La Séquia is one of the most important medieval hydraulic works in Catalonia and the proposals of Camins de la Séquia allows you to discover this heritage while enjoying its landscape.
In its 30 km route, the landscape is very varied. The first part runs near to the river Llobregat and is where we find the mining operations of Vilafruns, Sallent and La Botjosa.
A second part where the Séquia moves away from the river, crosses an agricultural mosaic of fields and forests.
The final part of the Séquia goes through agricultural and open lands, with extensive panoramic views of the Bages plain and the Montserrat mountain.
Once in Manresa, La Séquia discovers us through its branches, the irrigated land of Viladordis and the Poal where producers maintain local varieties of agricultural products.
Walking La Séquia is to discover 700 years of the history of the region.
