THE
CISTERN

The Montsant Cistern is one of the best-preserved medieval structures in Xàtiva and forms part of the former Monastery of Montsant complex. This impressive underground reservoir consists of four vaulted chambers and was designed to collect and store rainwater, ensuring a reliable water supply throughout the year.

Dating back to the medieval period, it is believed to have been built between 1244 and 1304, when the site served as a royal palace following the Christian conquest of Xàtiva. Water was channelled from the Barranc de les Santes, located at the foot of the castle, through a system of conduits that captured and directed rainfall into the cistern.

Remarkably, the cistern has continued to be used as a water reservoir up to the present day, demonstrating the effectiveness and durability of its original design.

Visitors can also see its original medieval staircase, which descends 29 steps into the reservoir.

Today, the cistern also features a floating walkway that allows visitors to explore part of its interior without affecting the historic structure.

Its walls preserve numerous graffiti dating from the 16th to the 19th centuries, providing a fascinating record of the people who passed through this remarkable place over the centuries.

Beyond its architectural value, the cistern offers a unique insight into the importance of medieval hydraulic engineering. In a fortress such as Xàtiva, maintaining a large water reserve was essential for withstanding sieges and supplying both the royal palace and, later, the monastery.

If you visit the Montsant complex, the cistern is one of its most impressive spaces. Its vast dimensions, the evocative atmosphere created by its stone vaults, and the exceptional state of preservation make it an unforgettable example of medieval engineering that has survived for more than seven centuries.