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Montserrat: A Must–Visit Destination in Catalonia

27 November 2024

Would you like to explore history, tranquility and a perfect view?

If so, just an hour away from Barcelona, Montserrat is there for you as one of the most spectacular natural and cultural landmarks!

The Montserrat Mountain

The name “Montserrat” means “serrated mountain” in Catalan, a description for the tooth–like peaks that dominate the landscape.

It’s 1,200 meters above the sea level and offers some of the most breathtaking views in the region. Visitors can either hike or take a funicular to the top.

The most popular hike is to the summit of Sant Jeroni, the highest point on the mountain, which offers a 360–degree view of the surrounding landscape!

Montserrat Monastery

montserrat monastery

Are you ready for a spiritual journey? Benedictine Monastery of Santa Maria de Montserrat is aplace of pilgrimage for over a thousand years. Founded in the 11th century, the monastery is home to a community of Benedictine monks who continue to live and work here. The monastery has been a spiritual center, attracting pilgrims from around the world who come to see the Black Madonna, also known as La Moreneta.

How to Get to Montserrat

Getting to Montserrat from Barcelona is simple and convenient! You can take a train from Plaça d’Espanya, then hop on a cable car or rack railway to the top—it’s just about an hour.

Perfect for a day trip! Guided tours with transportation are also an option, but if you prefer to go solo, the area is easy to explore with plenty of multilingual signs and info.

Check our map to get the exact address!

Whether you’re seeking spiritual serenity, breathtaking nature, or outdoor fun, Montserrat has it all! With its stunning views, rich history, and vibrant culture, it’s a must-visit in Catalonia.

Let’s go explore!

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Author

naomi
Anna & Naomi
Content Creators, Cognitive.ai

“Whether you’re a nature lover, or simply seeking spiritual tranquility, Montserrat has something special for you.“

    Black Madonna

    The Black Madonna is a wooden statue of theVirgin Mary and baby Jesus, believed to have been carved in Jerusalem in the early days of Christianity. According to legend, the statue was hidden in a cave in Montserrat for centuries until it was discovered by shepherds in the 9th century.

    Today, the statue is housed in a special chapel in the monastery, and visitors can queue to see it up close. The Black Madonna is considered a symbol of Catalan identity and devotion, and many locals make annual pilgrimages to pay their respects.

    “The Escolania de Montserrat, one of the oldest boys’ choirs in Europe, performs daily at the basilica, filling the sacred space with heavenly music.”

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