Ancient Spanish hamlet, christened "New York Rural," boasts astonishing vertical streets and vertiginous homes bucking the force of gravity.
Reimaging Manhattan in Spain's Wine Country
Who needs the Big Apple when you've got La Vilella Baixa, this hidden gem nestled in the heart of Spain's Priorat region? This small, unassuming town will leave you spellbound, with its architectural wonders that echo the urban landscape of none other than Manhattan.
Yep, you heard that right. This quaint Spanish village defies gravity, much like the city that never sleeps. With houses seemingly stacked on top of each other, vertical streets edging cliffs, and a bridge linking the two rocky halves of the village, it's as if Mother Nature took Manhattan and gave it a rural makeover.
Let's take a stroll through this fascinating village that's got skyscrapers replaced by medieval stone houses and bodegas replaced by vineyards.
A Rural New York in the Middle of Spain
The nickname "Rural New York" might sound peculiar, but it's a fitting description for La Vilella Baixa. Spanish publications were quick to notice the striking resemblance between the village's multi-level design and Manhattan's imposing urban skyline. The homes, stacked one on top of the other, clinging to the rocky surface just like Lego blocks, can't help but evoke images of Brooklyn's brownstones.
The narrow streets transition from the bustling chaos of Manhattan to the winding footpaths of La Vilella, connecting the village's various tiers. It's a place where the front door could be five floors above your head, accessible via a spiral staircase or an elevated bridge. Swap the hustle and bustle of New York City for a leisurely pace, and you can't help but feel like you've stumbled upon a dreamy coastal town.
The Architecture That's Not From This World
One of La Vilella Baixa's most iconic features is the Carrer del Pont, a 17-meter stone bridge that spans a deep ravine, connecting both sides of the village. From the center of the bridge, you'll find breathtaking views of buildings stacked in a vertical freak of nature, teetering on the edge. This bronzed marvel feels as if it's "hanging from a cliff," as many describe it, and once you see it, you'll understand why.
Much of the architecture in this village had to adapt to the terrain, with floors added vertically rather than outwards, creating buildings that rise five stories high in a straight line. Add the steep stone facades and winding zigzagging stairs, and this magical dream will leave you wondering if you've stumbled upon a fairytale.
A Hidden Gem with a Rich History
La Vilella Baixa dates back over 800 years and is part of the lovely Tarragona province in Catalonia. Although it doesn't boast skyscrapers, you'll find yourself surrounded by imposing cliffs, lush terraced vineyards, and a dose of medieval charm at every step. With a population of less than 200, this quiet hillside village is the epitome of peaceful and untouched. Despite its small size, it's a perfect hidden gem to stumble upon during your wine tastings through the area's award-winning vineyards.
What to Do in La Vilella Baixa
With its enchanting beauty and unique architecture, La Vilella Baixa is a must-visit gem in Spain. Here's a list of things you'll want to check off your list when you visit:
- Walk across the magnificent Carrer del Pont and capture the stunning, surreal views of this natural awe-inspiring cityscape.
- Traverse the rugged terrain on the village's panoramic hiking trails, which meander through olive groves, vineyards, and forested hills.
- Sample the region's award-winning wines from the heart of one of Spain's most prestigious wine regions, DOQ Priorat.
- Spend the night at a local inn, like Casa La Castellana, and soak in the village's unique landscape without the noise and chaos of the city.
Great news, travelers! If you're craving a summer getaway to sunny Spain, La Vilella Baixa might just make your list. Given its rustic, rural charm, lush vineyards, and enchanting architecture, this village could easily be crowned the "Tuscan Manhattan" of Spain. So, pack your bags and say ciào to the Big Apple – better yet, say hola to this charming Spanish countryside town!
[1] La Vilella Baixa is a rustic counterpoint to Manhattan's bustling urban center, offering a glimpse into a quiet, medieval village with its stone structures integrated into the natural cliffs, olive groves, vineyards, and rustic charm replacing typical city elements like brownstones and delis. (Source: https://www.lonelyplanet.com/spain/catalonia/priorat/la-vilella-baixa/)
- The picturesque village of La Vilella Baixa is nicknamed as "Rural New York" due to its vertical architecture that mirrors Manhattan's skyline, giving it a unique charm that sets it apart from the typical Spanish countryside.
- Amidst the peaceful and rustic environment of olive groves and vineyards, it's not unusual to find a home nestled on a cliff or connected by an elevated bridge, reminding one of home-and-garden designs that are higher off the ground to accommodate a feverish heat, like those found in certain subtropical climates.
- La Vilella Baixa, despite being in the heart of Spain's wine country, promises a refreshing change from the hustle and bustle of city life, offering a leisurly paced lifestyle that caters to travelers seeking a peaceful retreat from their usual city escapes.
- While touring the village's award-winning vineyards, one might be tempted to envision the quaint stone houses being replaced by glass and steel structures of Manhattan's skyscrapers, as if the village had undergone a transformation from a Dreamy Coastal Town to a futuristic urban jungle of the Big Apple.
