El Pou de la Vila: the legacy of water in Monroyo

The Arab influence on the Iberian Peninsula left a profound mark in many fields, including agriculture and water management. The Arabs introduced advanced cultivation techniques, among which their irrigation systems stood out, enabling the exploitation of land previously considered unproductive. The Matarraña region and its surroundings were no exception to these innovative farming practices.

The well has traditionally been associated with Muslim rule in the region, which lasted from the 8th to the 12th century. Although local tradition suggests that the well could date back to that period, this is difficult to prove from documents. The current structure of the well, however, is estimated to be approximately 200 years old.

Located near the town centre, the Pou de la Vila was essential for drinking-water supply and domestic uses. A sophisticated wheel operated an internal mechanism with a waterwheel (noria) system, allowing water to be drawn through taps. From 1967 onwards, with the arrival of running water in homes from the Font Nova, the well fell out of use. Finally, in 1979, it was completely abandoned following the construction of a new supply system from "els ullals del Roig" on the Escorza River (or Riu de Mont-roig), 5 km from the town, one of the two intake points still in use today.