17th-century graffiti discovered in ancient pilgrims' hostel at El Miracle

Incisions on the walls of the Casa Gran in Riner reveal new details about daily life during the Baroque period.

Detail of a stone wall with historical incisions and restoration tools.
IA

Detail of a stone wall with historical incisions and restoration tools.

The final phase of restoration at the Casa Gran of the Santuari del Miracle in Riner has uncovered hidden 17th-century graffiti made by pilgrims on the hostel walls.

The discovery in the Solsonès region includes incisions made with sharp tools that were hidden under layers of lime. Conservator Anna Bedmar identified various motifs, including house names, dates, crosses, and human figures, which provide insight into the Baroque era.

"In the same way that many people today leave their names when touring, it is quite likely that this also happened with the pilgrims."

Anna Bedmar · Conservator-restorer
The project is funded by 2.7 million euros from the Next Generation EU funds. Mayor Joan Solà aims to transform the building into a living space to explain social and cultural life during the Renaissance and Baroque periods.