Cal Misses, a charming masia nestled in the northern district of La Ribera in El Prat de Llobregat, is a hidden gem that offers a glimpse into the rich agricultural and architectural heritage of the region. This picturesque farmhouse, included in the Inventory of the Architectural Heritage of Catalonia, stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of rural life in the Baix Llobregat area.
The origins of Cal Misses date back to the early 19th century, although the exact year of its construction remains a mystery. The property, originally part of a larger estate owned by brothers Leodorigi and Josep Serra i Farreras, was built on lands acquired during the Spanish confiscation. According to the Parish Consueta, the house was constructed in the first half of the 19th century. The year 1886, displayed on the facade with tiles, marks a significant restoration, as confirmed by the owners.
For over a century, Cal Misses was home to successive generations of the Portillo-Busquets family, who were deeply rooted in the local agricultural community. Baldiri Portillo Busquets and his wife, Teresa Duran Roca, purchased the masia in 1956 after having been its caretakers. Before this, the property belonged to the Fontanills family from Barcelona, who had amassed their wealth through trading ceramics from the Cartuja of Seville. The upper-floor bathroom was adorned with beautiful ceramic tiles from the Cartuja, featuring vibrant floral and animal motifs.
Cal Misses is a rectangular-plan house with a gabled roof, oriented perpendicular to the facade. Before the extensive restoration between 2003 and 2005, the house comprised a ground floor, an upper floor, and an attic. The attic had a small, operable opening that provided access to the roof. The main entrance was centrally located on the facade, flanked by a smaller door to the left, leading to the stables. The upper floor featured a balcony and two windows, each serving a bedroom.
The lateral and rear sides of the house had several small windows, with the exception of one large, semicircular arched window that illuminated the dining room. However, this unique feature was altered during the last renovation, transforming it into a rectangular window. In addition to the main house, there were two auxiliary buildings used for agricultural purposes, such as storage and animal pens.
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Cal Misses sits on fifteen mujades (approximately 9 hectares) of fertile land, where a variety of crops were cultivated. The fields produced an array of vegetables, including cauliflowers, escaroles, lettuces, artichokes, peppers, beans, and tomatoes. The estate also boasted a significant number of fruit trees, such as peach and pear trees. The masia had its own well, which provided water until it dried up in the 1970s.
The name Cal Misses is said to originate from Jacint Busquets, known as el Cinto, an early caretaker and grandfather of Baldiri Portillo. Every Sunday, Cinto would take his family to mass in his cart. When asked where he was going, he would always reply, To mass! – a phrase that eventually lent its name to the house.
In 2001, Cal Misses was acquired by a local family of builders from El Prat, who undertook a comprehensive renovation, transforming the masia into a weekend retreat. Despite their efforts, the renovation has been met with mixed reviews, as the house's current appearance significantly deviates from its traditional character as a typical masia of the Baix Llobregat.
Visitors to Cal Misses can enjoy the serene rural landscape that surrounds the masia. The lush fields and orchards offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of urban life. The area is ideal for leisurely walks and cycling, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and tranquility of the Catalan countryside.
El Prat de Llobregat itself is a town rich in cultural and historical significance. While in the area, visitors can explore other notable masias and landmarks that dot the delta of the Llobregat River. The town also offers a variety of dining options where one can savor local Catalan cuisine, further enhancing the experience of visiting this charming region.
In conclusion, Cal Misses is more than just a historical farmhouse; it is a symbol of the enduring agricultural traditions and architectural heritage of El Prat de Llobregat. Its storied past, combined with the serene beauty of its surroundings, makes it a must-visit destination for those seeking to connect with Catalonia's rural roots and experience the charm of a bygone era.
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