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The front facade of Hostal de Pinos, Source: blanc isidre, on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Oldest inn in Catalonia marked 500 years of non-stop business

Oldest inn in Catalonia marked 500 years of non-stop business

Hostal de Pinós is located in the geographical centre of the autonomous region

The oldest inn, and by extension, also the oldest restaurant in Catalonia celebrated its 500th anniversary last week with a theatrical performance for its regular guests and visitors. Hostal de Pinós, as the inn is known, is located near the village of Pinós, right in the geographical centre of the autonomous region.

The story of the hostal began in 1524 when it was founded as a place to accommodate pilgrims travelling to visit the Sanctuary of Pinós, a medieval church that still stands next to the inn.

Since then, Hostal de Pinós has never been out of business always serving its original and noble purpose of receiving tired travellers and giving them a place to recover their energy. What’s changed is that the accommodation part of the inn is not provided anymore (since the 1970s), thus, you can’t find a place to sleep but you’re still guaranteed a good meal.

Tourism as a tradition

The Solsonès region, which is where you’ll find the inn, is quite distinct in its features from the Mediterranean coastline favoured by international tourists. However, this is where you would find the authentic Catalan countryside experience, including mountains, good hiking, cooler climate and hearty rural cuisine.

The restaurant began as "a simple and modest hostel that provided shelter and served hot soup and some meat," according to historian Laura de Castellet, quoted by The Catalan News.

These days, the choices are similar but more in line with what one would expect from a traditional Catalan restaurant in the countryside. Diners can feast on dishes such as escudella, stewed pig's feet, lamb grilled on oak charcoal, and potatoes with codfish.

The profile of the clientele has also changed over the centuries. If in the beginning it must have been composed mainly of pilgrims and travelling shepherds, these days you’ll find mostly hikers, cyclists and bikers enjoying the gastronomic offerings of Hostal de Pinós and the highland panoramic views surrounding it.

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