Montserrat Monastery: Tickets

Montserrat Mountain Range & Monastery Tickets and Information

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Is Montserrat Monastery Worth Visiting

• If you are religious or enjoy visiting religious buildings steeped in history, definitely, yes.

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What Visitors See at Montserrat Monastery

• Views of the area
• The Monastery
• The Basilica
• The Black Madonna

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See Montserrat Ticket Options

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About Montserrat Mountain Range and Monastery

As you approach Barcelona, you are greeted by the incredible jagged peaks of the Montserrat Mountain Range. This natural wonder which is located just outside the city, is home to the historic Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey, a Benedictine monastery that was founded in the 10th century and remains a spiritual centre today still housing over 100 Benedictine monks.

Standing at 1,236 meters, the Montserrat Mountain Range offers amazing views over Barcelona and the surrounding Catalonia region. The mountain is part of the Montserrat Natural Park which offers an excellent escape from the city with its hiking trails and beautiful landscapes.

The Black Madonna

The monastery's church, which was consecrated as a basilica, is home to the famous 'Black Madonna' (La Moreneta), which is a wooden sculpture of the Virgin Mary. The statue has significant religious importance and attracts pilgrims from around the world. The statue although open to the public to view, is protected by a glass panel which has a small opening that enables visitors to touch or kiss the hand of the Madonna, which holds a sphere which is said to symbolise the world.

*It’s important to note that the Black Madonna is located at the top of a staircase, which may not be accessible to those with limited mobility. However, it can still be viewed from the bottom of the stairs.

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Montserrat Museum

Art enthusiasts will find the Montserrat Museum a treasure trove as it houses works by renowned artists such as Berruguete, El Greco, Caravaggio, Fortuny, Rusiñol, Casas, Nonell, Picasso, and Dalí. The collection spans from the 13th century to contemporary times, making it a must-visit for lovers of art and history.

The Basilica of Montserrat

The Basilica of Montserrat from an architectural point of view, blends Gothic, Renaissance, and traditional Catalan styles. It suffered damage during Napoleon's wars (1808-1814), but was meticulously reconstructed in the late 19th century. The central nave, which stands at an impressive 58 meters long and 15 meters wide, rises to a height of 23 meters under a grand dome.

The church's interior features intricately designed hanging candles, a unique Catalan style of jewellery-making that emerged after the Spanish Civil War. The candles were donated by Catalan towns and associations and symbolise the enduring devotion to St. Mary of Montserrat. The central pillars are adorned with wooden sculptures of prophets Ezekiel, Jeremiah, Isaiah, and Daniel, crafted by Josep Llimona in 1896.

The Chapels of the Basilica

Surrounding the basilica are several captivating chapels:

• The Chapel of St. Scholastica: Features sculptures by Enric Claraso and Agapit Vallmitjana.
• The Chapel of the Most Holy One: Boasts a grand stained glass window separating it from the nave.
• The Chapel of the Holy Christ: Houses a profound image of Christ on the cross by Josep Llimona.
• The Chapel of the Immaculate Conception: Inaugurated in 1910, this chapel showcases the architectural brilliance of Josep M. Pericas and reflects his admiration for Antoni Gaudí.

Montserrat Natural Park

Beyond the monastery, the Montserrat Natural Park offers numerous hiking trails and spectacular views. The park's highest peak, St. Jerome, stands at 1,236 meters above sea level and provides panoramic vistas of the region.

Railways to Montserrat

Three railways serve the Montserrat area:

1. The Rack Railway (Cremallera): Connects Monistrol de Montserrat to the Montserrat Monastery, with stops at Monistrol Vila and Montserrat.
2. The Sant Joan Funicular: Takes visitors higher up the mountain for stunning views and access to hiking trails. It also features a small museum, Aula de la Natur, though it is not wheelchair accessible.
3. The Santa Cova Funicular: Transports visitors to the Santa Cova Cave Chapel, where legend says the Virgin Mary appeared to shepherds. The cave is a 15-20 minute walk from the funicular station.

Montserrat offers a unique blend of natural beauty, spiritual significance, and artistic heritage, making it an essential destination for any visitor to Catalonia.

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