Visit Montserrat: what you need to know about your stay

You can't visit Barcelona without visit Montserrat.

This beautiful mountain range and its monastery are about 45 minutes from Barcelona.

Today, I'm talking about some little-known facts about the place.

Visit Montserrat: article summary

Montserrat means "saw mountain" in Catalan

The mountain is called Montserrat because of its meaning in the Catalan language: "saw (jagged) mountain". In addition to its distinctive appearance, Montserrat's various mountains can be seen from afar.

The mountain itself is a mass of sedimentary rocks that have accumulated over time. Thanks to its composition, the mountain of Montserrat appears to be pink in color. When you reach the foot of the mountain, you can appreciate its grandeur and beauty. However, it is possible to get a view of it from Mount Montserrat. Tibidabo in Barcelona.

Visiting Montserrat: don't forget the monastery

If you're going to visit Montserrat, I'd advise you not to miss out on a visit to the monastery. Indeed, while climbing to the top of the mountain may be tempting as soon as you arrive, you risk missing out on one of Barcelona's wonders by missing out on the Benedictine abbey, Santa Maria de Montserrat. This is where you'll find the sanctuary of the Virgin of Montserrat.

The Virgin's appearance is different from that of other cultures' representations of virgins or holy individuals.

Indeed, the Patron Saint of Catalonia is a black Virgin. Her skin is black in every description of her and every image created of her. The Catalan name, La Moreneta means "the dark-skinned one" or "the little black one".

Linger over the four trees at the entrance to the basilica

The trees planted in front of the basilica's entrance represent four different aspects of the Catholic faith and were planted centuries ago.

A palm tree represents martyrdom, a cypress represents eternal life, an olive tree for peace and a laurel for victory.

Visit Montserrat: discover Europe's oldest choir

Escolania, the Montserrat choir, gives daily performances in the sanctuary and abbey of Montserrat. It is one of the oldest choirs in Europe. Indeed, numerous documents dating back to the XIVᵉ century were found in the abbey on this subject.

With its high-level musical training, the choir now accompanies religious ceremonies and communal prayers in the basilica.

You can taste the cookies made by the nuns.

As you pass through Montserrat, stop inside the gift store and head for the bakery counter.

You can find cookies sold by nuns, as well as madeleines sometimes drizzled with chocolate.

Montserrat tours: discover Catalan cheeses

If you love cheese, Montserrat is the place for you. In fact, you can stop off at one of the many cheese stalls in the town. a small market before leaving the monastery area.

I highly recommend trying a cheese called Monchego, which is made from the milk of Manchego sheep in central Spain. Traditionally, it is served with a little honey to blend the flavors.

Enjoy a mountain hike

When you visit a mountain, it's customary to visit its summit. In Montserrat, superb hikes are possible and magnificent views await you at the top of the mountain.

On a clear, sunny day, you can enjoy a 360° view of Montserrat's surroundings. If you'd like to go hiking in Montserrat, I'd advise you to read the article I wrote on the subject.

Montserrat is a must-see when in Barcelona. You'll discover a wealth of treasures and spend a wonderful day surrounded by mountains.