Monserrat is Catalunya’s most iconic “mountain” as the site of the historic Monestir de Montserrat, set at a height of 725 metros. This famous monastery is home to La Moreneta, the Mare de Deu (Mother of God) of Montserrat, patron saint of Catalunya. It had always been thought to be a black virgin, unique in Christian iconography, but in 2001 it was discovered that it fact had in fact been blackened over time by the candle smoke. For Catalan people Montserrat is both a religious symbol and a hallmark of the city as a historic repository of knowledge.

The museum shows some treasures of the monastery, ranging from an Egyptian mummy to paintings by El Greco, Dalí, Caravaggio and Picasso. The Escolania de Montserrat is a children’s choir of great repute, giving recitals in the monastery every day at 13.00 and 19.00 hours (on Sundays only at 13.00 hours).

From the monastery runs a funicular railway, which can drop us at various good starting points for exploring the mountain on foot. There are several perfectly-marked trails, such as the path leading to the Ermita de Sant Joan or another leading to Sant Jeroni, the highest peak. On any of these walks we can enjoy stunning views of Catalunya and the rugged mountain itself and its weird rock formations. The sheer cliffs are highly appreciated by rock climbers from the whole country. Another funicular railway will take us to the Ermita housing the Moreneta.

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