Long ago, when the mountains were wild and free, a family of shepherds lived with their seven children and a flock of sheep. The father was blind, but he could find his way by listening to the sounds and noticing the scents of the mountains. His children trusted his wisdom.
One day, they climbed higher in search of fresh grass and reached a place called Pla dels Hospitalets. There, the sheep began to graze. A few days later, soft white flakes started falling from the sky. The children had never seen snow before.
“The snow will cover the grass, and the sheep will have nothing to eat,” their father explained. “Walk downhill until you find an elder tree in flower. We will be safe there.”
The seven siblings set off with the flock. They crossed valleys, woods and streams. Some guided the sheep, others watched the path, and everyone helped their father. During the journey, they learnt to work together, listen with respect and care for nature.
When they were very tired, they reached a sunny place where the grass was green and soft. In the middle of the landscape stood an elder tree covered in white blossom. They knew they had found their home.
Each sibling built a cottage around the tree. More neighbours arrived over time, and the village of Setcases was born. Its name means “seven houses” and remembers those first seven homes.
The family lived happily among the sheep, mountains and new villagers. The seven siblings always told their story as a reminder that family, cooperation and respect for nature can help us find a place to call home.
