Montserrat - monastery at the top of the sky

What to expect

The birth of the monastery
As early as the 9th century, the unique mountains attracted Christian hermits. The scattered hermitages were united by Abbot Oliba - thus the Benedictine monastery was founded. I will tell you in detail about the life of the monks since 1025, and share curious stories. You will hear how Saint Martin covered a beggar with his cloak, and learn how Ignatius of Loyola transformed from a brave warrior into a preacher and the founder of a new order.

The radiant image of the Black Virgin
The main relic of the monastery is the Black Madonna. All Catalans come to the Mother of God with requests, and her image has inspired many people. Among them - Leonardo da Vinci: it is said that the mysterious smile of the Mona Lisa was copied from the face of the Black Madonna - you can see for yourself and look for similarities.

Singing and panorama from the mountain
You will visit the beautiful basilica, where chapels by famous sculptors are gathered - and hear the story of each of them. You will admire the stained glass windows and sit on the throne where Catalans sit to cope with illnesses and bad thoughts. We will listen to the clear choir of boys from the prestigious school "Escolania", which operates at the monastery. If desired, we will visit the museum of miracles. And afterwards, we can "solidify" the tingling feeling by taking a funicular to the mountaintop, where an unforgettable view opens up.