What is a masia? what does masia mean?

The Masia or "Mas" has its origins in the ancient Roman civilization of which its influence on the rustic architecture of houses made of stone, facing south for the maximum use of sunlight in winter.
The concept of farmhouse continues to be effective as a housing unit for agricultural production and / or housing, currently this type of construction has a high demand. The life expectancy of the Mediterranean, the tranquility of its fields and mountains and a mild climate make these constructions attractive pieces for those seeking a second residence isolated from the congested urban environments and with all the services and benefits.

There is a wide catalog of Masias scattered throughout all the fields of Northern Mediterranean Spain, many of them in states of abandonment or ruin that are increasingly desired for restoration and rehabilitation, an activity that is jealously supervised by the Generalitat of Catalonia , the government stay that ensures the correct recovery of these assets of a certain archaeological interest. Thus, the total rehabilitation of a farmhouse must be done with materials relevant to the historical moment in which they were built, with minimal environmental impact in the environment and always respectful with the landscape.

Of course there is a great offer of properties of this type that have been impeccably restored and are true architectural gems some destined to be rural houses for tourist exploitation or luxurious residences that guarantee privacy and rest in the spectacular surroundings of the Empordá or the Pyrenees.

Concepts similar to the masia in other cultures would be: farmhouse, farm, farmhouse, ranch, hacienda, cortijo, finca, Bauernhaus, bondgård, Fángzi 農家, بيت ريفي, घर ghar ...