Montserrat

About 50 km northwest of Barcelona, Montserrat mountain (meaning serrated or saw like) offers breathtaking views of the Catalan Pre-Coastal Range of mountains. The Benedictine Abbey of Santa Maria de Montserrat is located on top of the mountain. It houses the revered statue of the Black Madonna, also known as “La Moreneta,” which is a symbol of Catalonia and an object of pilgrimage for Catholics.

Construction on the abbey began in 16th century. Many of its treasures were lost when it was burned down twice by Napoleon’s troops in 1811 and 1812. It was closed for restoration in 1835 and re-opened in 1844. During the reign of Francisco Franco, the Abbey served as a refuge for many scholars, artists, politicians, and students who were wanted by the government.

Montserrat is a popular destination for hiking and outdoor enthusiasts. There are numerous trails of varying difficulty levels that lead to viewpoints, hermitages, and unique rock formations. The mountain also offers opportunities for climbing. To reach some of the viewpoints and trails on Montserrat, visitors can use funicular railways. The most famous of these is the Sant Joan Funicular, which provides access to the Sant Joan Chapel and offers spectacular vistas. There is also a cable car, the Aeri de Montserrat, that transports visitors from the valley to the Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey. It’s a convenient way to reach the monastery and enjoy the scenic ride.

Montserrat

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