Vilanova del Camí

Vilanova del Camí is a municipality in the Anoia region with a distinct character shaped by the passage of time, its connection to the Anoia River, and a growth trajectory that has transformed it into a vibrant, active town brimming with amenities. Located in the Òdena Basin, very close to Igualada, Vilanova del Camí is one of those places that often surprises, combining urban proximity with natural spaces perfect for walking, sports, and discovering heritage sites that tell the story of its evolution. The municipality originated along the old royal road that connected Catalonia with Aragon and gained its civil independence in 1727, when it separated from La Pobla de Claramunt.

More than just a stopover town, Vilanova del Camí is now a place to experience at a leisurely pace. Its streets, squares, amenities, green spaces, and walking and cycling routes make it an attractive option for those seeking a peaceful, family-friendly, and easily accessible getaway. Here, history and the present coexist seamlessly: from the remnants of the old town to the Anoia River Park, one of the town's most iconic landmarks.

From an old royal road to a municipality with its own identity

The history of Vilanova del Camí is relatively recent compared to other towns in the area. The present-day Vilanova originated from the unification of two population centers, which didn't occur until 1830: Quadra de Vilanova, jurisdictionally linked to the Montbui family, and Vilanova del Camí, associated with the Claramunt family. Before this modern layout, the first houses were built next to a fortified manor house that served as an outpost of Claramunt Castle.

Historical documents mention this castle or fortified house in the year 1206, while the name Vilanova del Camí appears for the first time in the 14th century, specifically in 1324. Also in this period there is evidence of a Jewish community and the first references to the church of Sant Hilari, one of the most outstanding heritage elements of the municipality.

For centuries, life in Vilanova was closely tied to agriculture. From the 18th century onwards, the town began a period of economic growth and diversification, with the construction of mills and, later, an increasingly close relationship with the industrial activity of Igualada. The arrival of the railway at the end of the 19th century encouraged the establishment of gypsum quarries and tile factories near the railway line, which helped to transform the economic and social landscape of the municipality.

A profound transformation in the 20th century

The great transformation of Vilanova del Camí came in the 20th century. The needs of the knitwear industry and the influx of people in the 1960s and 70s led to very rapid growth. In just a few decades, Vilanova went from being a small village to becoming a densely populated municipality, with new neighborhoods that initially often lacked sufficient infrastructure.

With the return to democracy, the City Council spearheaded a significant urban and social transformation. Basic services, public facilities, plazas, a sewage system, a library, a covered market, a health center, sports facilities, and community spaces were created. This effort helped give the municipality its own identity and shed its image as a commuter town for Igualada.

Today, Vilanova del Camí presents itself as a modern, practical, and well-equipped municipality, with a remarkable array of spaces for sports, leisure, and everyday life. It also stands out for its natural surroundings, with nearly 400 hectares of forest and a clear view of the Anoia River, which forms an essential part of its character.

Places of interest

The Anoia River Park

One of Vilanova del Camí's main attractions is the Anoia River Park, a space designed for walking, cycling, running, or simply enjoying the fresh air. The Town Council has worked to revitalize this area, which is very popular with local residents and situated in a prime location surrounded by trails and heritage sites.

The Parc Fluvial is ideal for families, athletes, and visitors looking for a simple and enjoyable activity. Several hiking and mountain biking routes start from here, connecting to the Collbàs mountain range, Claramunt Castle, and other points of interest in the Conca de Òdena region. It's a space that perfectly encapsulates the current essence of Vilanova: nature, activity, and community.

The church of Sant Hilari

On Carrer Major stands the parish church of Sant Hilari, a religious building of great historical value. The current church was built in 1803 and consecrated in 1805, on the same site as an older chapel documented as early as around 1300. In 1779, Sant Hilari ceased to be part of the parish of La Pobla de Claramunt and became an independent parish.

The building is Neoclassical in style, with a single nave, side chapels, and a bell tower that transitions from a square to an octagonal shape at the top. Its presence in the old town makes it an essential stop for understanding local history.

Can Muscons

Another highlight is Can Muscons, an old building renovated in 1863 by Miquel Castelltort i Mateu as a second home. The neoclassical building retains unique architectural elements, such as the arches on the façade, the balustrade, and an interior spiral staircase connecting the different floors.

Can Muscons was acquired by the City Council in 1997 and declared a Local Cultural Asset. Following a complete renovation, the municipality has recovered this emblematic space, which now houses the Espai Jove youth center.

Farmhouses and routes to discover the municipality

Vilanova del Camí also preserves a group of farmhouses that are part of its rural heritage, such as Cal Balengues, Cal Llorens, Cal Todó, Can Bernades, Can Solsona, Can Titó, Molino de Rigat or Can Muscons itself.

For hiking and cycling enthusiasts, the municipality offers routes such as the walking trail through the Collbàs mountain range, the path to Claramunt Castle, and mountain biking routes through Collbàs and the Ca l'Aromir Plain. These are accessible options, well-connected to the River Park, perfect for discovering the Anoia landscape at a leisurely pace.

Vilanova del Camí, a municipality to live in and discover

Vilanova del Camí is history, services, nature, and vibrant activity. This town has transformed itself without losing its connection to its origins, offering visitors an attractive combination of heritage, green spaces, and local life. Whether you come to stroll along the River Park, discover Sant Hilari and Can Muscons, or begin a route through the Òdena Basin, Vilanova del Camí invites you to take your time and enjoy it at a leisurely pace.