The delegate of the Consell in Castellón, Susana Fabregat, and the Director General of Local Administration, José Antonio Redorat, have recently overseen emblematic works such as the repair of the hermitage of Sant Cristòfol in Todolella and the restoration of the castles of Olocau del Rey and Portell de Morella. These interventions aim to recover key elements of the municipalities, strengthening their cultural, social, and tourist value, especially in inland areas.
The interventions include projects in Castellfort (Hermitage Mare de Déu de la Font), Herbés (Baron of Herbés Castle), Morella (Santa Llúcia Aqueduct), Olocau del Rey (Olocau del Rey Castle), Zorita del Maestrazgo (Sanctuary of the Virgen de la Balma), Palanques (Rock art of Los Cingles), Portell de Morella (Wall), Forcall (Church of the Convent of Dominics), and Todolella (Sant Cristòfol). The total investment for these 17 projects extends until 2026.
Susana Fabregat emphasized that heritage conservation in small municipalities is a key tool for revitalizing the territory, enhancing the attractiveness of towns, and generating economic activity linked to culture and tourism.
For his part, José Antonio Redorat highlighted the importance of investing in heritage to preserve historical legacy and identity, promoting rootedness and pride of belonging to these towns.
In Portell de Morella, 300,000 euros have been allocated for the conservation and conditioning of the fortified complex, including the wall. In Olocau del Rey, a subsidy of 450,000 euros has enabled the excavation, consolidation, and improvement of the accessibility of its castle. In Todolella, 150,000 euros have been invested in the repair of the hermitage of Sant Cristòfol, adding to previous actions.
Redorat added that the goal is for the recovery of Sant Cristòfol not only to preserve the building but also to turn it into a regional meeting space and move towards its future reopening.
Furthermore, the improvement of funding for small municipalities like La Mata de Morella through the depopulation cooperation fund was mentioned. The Consell has established an annual minimum of 15,000 euros for localities at risk of depopulation, significantly increasing the contribution to municipalities like La Mata, which has seen its allocation increase by 44%.
