The Vía Augusta in Castellón

The Via Augusta in Castellón is more than a trace of the past. It is a route that still links landscapes today, carrying thousands of years of history through different parts of the province and leaving behind a rich archaeological legacy.

Can you imagine walking along the same route laid out by the Roman Empire more than two thousand years ago? Here are a few ideas for exploring it on a cultural getaway.

Which towns does the Via Augusta pass through in Castellón?

The Via Augusta crosses the province of Castellón from north to south, passing towns, open landscapes and a range of routes along the way. These include Benlloc, Cabanes, Les Coves de Vinromà, Vall d'Alba, Vilafamés, Vilanova d'Alcolea, La Torre d'en Doménec, Traiguera, San Rafael del Río, La Jana and Sant Mateu.

What Roman remains or milestones can you see along the Via Augusta in Castellón?

The Castellón section of the Via Augusta has left behind some fascinating monuments and archaeological remains. In fact, 19 Roman milestones have been found across the province. These are some of the places to look out for:

• The Roman Arch of Cabanes is a 2nd-century AD honorary monument that once stood beside the road as travellers passed.

• The L'Hostalot Ildum archaeological site in Vilanova d’Alcolea reveals the Roman stopping place or station of Ildum, where a well-known milestone from the reign of Emperor Caracalla was found, marking distances in Roman miles. Iberian remains have also been discovered near this section of the Via Augusta, including La Vilavella and the Puig Pedró site.

• The 8 km stretch of road between Vilanova d’Alcolea and La Pobla Tornesa is quite remarkable. It follows a straight line and is still used as a track today.

• The Via Augusta section in Benlloc, known as Camí dels Romans, includes around 50 metres of exposed road that has provided valuable information about the original route.

• La Jana milestone: today, it stands beside the town’s parish church.

How can you follow the Via Augusta in Castellón, on foot or by bike?

Planning a bike ride or a multi-stage walk along the Via Augusta in Castellón is straightforward thanks to its well-prepared, signposted sections with little difficulty, making them suitable for gentle walking and cycling.

Head out along the Via Augusta in Castellón and follow this historic itinerary through olive groves and archaeological sites, taking in the landscape as you go.