Its origins go back to prehistoric times, as evidenced by both archaeological remains and cave paintings. It was under Muslim rule until the early 13th century. Having been reconquered in 1233 by Don Blasco de Alagón, it received a Town Charter in 1244. At that time, Castillo de Culla had an important strategic role, owing both to its location and to the vastness of its territory. In 1303 it is sold to the Knights Templar and in 1317 it becomes a subject of the Order of Montesa. It is worth mentioning the important role once played by the Setena de Culla or the "Comunitat d'Herbatge", consisting of seven different towns, and which existed well into the 19th century. In the 19th century, following the Carlist wars, Castillo de Culla was destroyed and razed, essentially leaving behind the structure of what makes up the town today.
Economy
The main economic activity is rainfed agriculture and livestock. The most common crops are almonds, olives, hazelnuts, grapes and dry cereals. Livestock farming is primarily extensive (sheep, goats and cattle), although some intensive farming (pigs, poultry and beekeeping) does exist.
Culla's old town is particularly interesting. Declared a National Heritage Site, it features various restored buildings, streets and alleys, squares and plazas, all packed with history and tradition. We can admire the ruins of the ancient Arabic castle from the 13th century; the former Granary, which once belonged to the Commander, now known as La Presó (the prison), dating from the 13th and 14th century; the old Hospital, and the El Salvador church. Many other parts of the town have been restored, such as the El Terrat viewpoint, which offers stunning panoramic views over the surroundings.
The municipality's elevation ranges from the 395 m of the Torre de Matella farm house, to the 1,121 m of the town centre. This gives rise to sharp contrasts, and the municipal district's physical geography is characterized by steep slopes, deep ravines and numerous caves and potholes. The municipality of Culla is known for its vast size, home to some 365 farm houses, of which 115 are believed to be inhabited today.
Economy
The main economic activity is rainfed agriculture and livestock. The most common crops are almonds, olives, hazelnuts, grapes and dry cereals. Livestock farming is primarily extensive (sheep, goats and cattle), although some intensive farming (pigs, poultry and beekeeping) does exist.
What to see
Culla's old town is particularly interesting. Declared a National Heritage Site, it features various restored buildings, streets and alleys, squares and plazas, all packed with history and tradition. We can admire the ruins of the ancient Arabic castle from the 13th century; the former Granary, which once belonged to the Commander, now known as La Presó (the prison), dating from the 13th and 14th century; the old Hospital, and the El Salvador church. Many other parts of the town have been restored, such as the El Terrat viewpoint, which offers stunning panoramic views over the surroundings.
Landscape
The municipality's elevation ranges from the 395 m of the Torre de Matella farm house, to the 1,121 m of the town centre. This gives rise to sharp contrasts, and the municipal district's physical geography is characterized by steep slopes, deep ravines and numerous caves and potholes. The municipality of Culla is known for its vast size, home to some 365 farm houses, of which 115 are believed to be inhabited today.
