A hiker's discovery of a WWII-era bomb in Castelldefels underscores the persistent threat of unexploded ordnance in the region. Authorities urge caution and immediate reporting.
In a startling incident this week, a hiker stumbled upon an unexploded artillery shell while trekking through the Garraf massif near Castelldefels. The object, identified as a 65-millimeter artillery piece from the Spanish Civil War, still contained explosive material, prompting immediate action from local authorities.
The individual wisely contacted the Mossos d’Esquadra, Catalonia’s police force, who dispatched bomb disposal experts to assess and safely detonate the device. This incident serves as a stark reminder that remnants of past conflicts continue to pose significant risks to unsuspecting citizens.
Authorities have reiterated their warnings regarding unexploded ordnance (UXO), which can remain dangerous for decades. “If you find something suspicious, do not touch it,” advised a spokesperson for the Mossos. “Call emergency services immediately.” This advice is crucial as numerous similar discoveries occur annually across Catalonia.
The recent find is not an isolated case; Castelldefels has seen its share of military artifacts unearthed over the years. Historical records indicate that since the end of the Spanish Civil War nearly nine decades ago, there has been a consistent pattern of such discoveries in this area. For instance, in June 2002, a mortar grenade was recovered here, highlighting an ongoing issue with leftover wartime materials.
In fact, just last year alone saw multiple recoveries: four mortar projectiles were found near Turó del Fatxó after residents alerted authorities. These incidents underscore how common these finds have become in recent years.
“The presence of these artifacts raises questions about their origins,” noted local historians who suggest that some may have been deliberately abandoned after the war ended.
This theory gains traction when considering that during excavations earlier this year on Avenida 305, workers uncovered another grenade from the same era. Such frequent occurrences suggest that Castelldefels might be sitting atop an extensive cache of forgotten munitions.
The situation is compounded by similar findings across neighboring areas like Sitges and Cornellà. In May 2026, construction workers discovered another mortar grenade along les Botigues de Sitges’ promenade—just steps away from Castelldefels—further illustrating how widespread these dangers are within proximity to urban developments.
A resident’s careless decision to bring home an explosive found during a walk in Cornellà last year resulted in significant risk until it was neutralized by TEDAX specialists.
This history reflects not only on past military strategies but also on how urban development interacts with historical sites laden with potential hazards. The Garraf massif and surrounding regions were once strategic military locations during wartime; thus, it’s no surprise that remnants linger beneath modern landscapes.
Experts emphasize that even corroded devices can retain explosive capabilities long after their intended use has passed. As such, vigilance remains paramount for residents and visitors alike: if you see something unusual while hiking or exploring these areas, prioritize safety by keeping your distance and contacting authorities without delay.
The Mossos d’Esquadra continue to monitor these situations closely and encourage public awareness campaigns aimed at educating citizens about recognizing potential threats posed by UXOs throughout Catalonia’s diverse terrains.
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