During World War II, the small mountain town of Sort, nestled in Catalonia’s Pyrenees, was not just a quiet stopover — it became the unexpected destination for hundreds of refugees and Allied escapees. Many who risked their lives crossing the Pyrenees from Nazi-occupied France were caught and imprisoned here, often after days of exhausting mountain travel.

Where Is Sort and Why Did It Matter in WWII?

Located in Pallars Sobirà, near the Noguera Pallaresa River, Sort was geographically significant — a natural entry point for escapees descending from high Pyrenean trails like the Chemin de la Liberté or other routes coming through Val d’Aran and Alt Urgell. Although Spain was officially neutral, those caught entering without documents were frequently arrested.

The Prison in Sort: A Harsh Welcome

The former Sort prison, located near what is today the courthouse, was a modest but grim holding site. Many detainees included:

• Jewish families fleeing Nazi persecution
• Allied airmen and SOE agents
• Young French men escaping forced labor under Vichy rule

They were often held for weeks or months until diplomatic channels or aid organizations like the Red Cross or HIAS arranged for their release.

Refugees’ Dilemma: Freedom in Sight, Yet Detained

For many, reaching Spain was supposed to be the moment of salvation. But the irony was cruel — stepping into freedom could mean new captivity. The detainees faced interrogations, uncertainty, and a return to survival mode. Yet, for most, Spain still offered the possibility of ultimate liberation — many were later moved to Barcelona, Andorra, or Lisbon, and eventually reached safe countries like Britain, Canada, or the U.S.

Modern-Day Reflections in Sort

Today, Sort is a tranquil riverside town known more for adventure sports than wartime memories. But subtle traces remain. Some old locals still remember stories. The prison building exists — no longer used — and quiet plaques or oral histories mark the memory of those who passed through.

Is It Possible to Visit Sort and Its WWII History?

Yes — and it’s part of the reason I created the WWII Pyrenees Freedom Trails Expedition. We explore towns like Sort and other key sites across Spain, France, and Andorra that were part of real escape stories.

During my years of guiding tours, I’ve seen that many of my travelers want more than a typical tourist experience in Barcelona. They come seeking something deeper — walks or hikes with meaning, with stories, with history. Many are tired of the busy, crowded sites and are looking for something off-the-beaten path — somewhere beautiful, historic, and ideally, even in another country — all within one day from Barcelona.

That’s why I created my WWII Freedom Trail tours: to share real stories from the Pyrenees and offer unforgettable walks or hikes based on group interest. Sort is one of those deeply powerful places — full of echoes of history waiting to be heard.

Related Reading & Resources

• The Chemin de la Liberté: WWII’s Secret Mountain Escape Route
• The Story of Nightingale: Heroic WWII Escapes Across the Pyrenees

Frequently Asked Questions