Barcelona Montserrat – When visiting Barcelona, it’s common to initially obsess over its architectural wonders. From the unfinished allure of La Sagrada Familia to the eccentric make of Park Güell, there’s already much to admire within the city. But just an hour away from Barcelona, upon the craggy peaks of Montserrat, is an isolated sanctuary with unparalleled views.
The Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey, a pilgrimage site, sits on top of Montserrat. It’s conveniently accessible from Barcelona by taking the R5 line at the Plaça d’Espanya station. The hour-long trip already provided some scenic views, shifting from urban constructs to the verdant landscapes of the Catalonia region.
The further we got away, the more peaceful the environment seemed to look. We then alighted at Aeri de Montserrat to take a cable car up to the mountain’s peak. From the station, the mountain range loomed over us, massive and mighty. There were only two cable cars doing round-trip travels, giving us an idea of how steep our trip would be.
The climb was slow and careful, providing enough time for passengers to take in some impressive views. Halfway through, we could already see the base of the Benedictine monastery. How it’s built by the side of a mountain at that altitude was an astonishing feat by itself.
Aeri de Montserrat
Once we got off the cable car, the glorious view of mountain ranges, snaking roads, and rivers stunned me in place. The sky was clear and blue, obstructing nothing and illuminating everything. Maybe it was the spiritualistic sensation of being close to the abbey, but Montserrat gave me a sense of peace the moment I stepped out of the cable car.
Bird’s-eye view from Montserrat’s peak
There weren’t a lot of people when we visited, motivating us to cherish the view some more along the monastery’s edge. Beyond, you can see St. Michael’s Cross which stands on a peak. Visitors will have to take a hike to reach the cross and enjoy its unique scenery. There’s also a funicular to take you further up the mountain.
Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey
By the end of the pathway along the edge is a viewing point. I guess I’ve written enough about the spectacular views of Montserrat, but trust me when I say that it’s something you’ll never tire of admiring.
There are several more viewing points that guests can visit, with one such spot being so close to the edge. From there, you can sit on a bench and dangle your legs overhead. Alone, it felt like I was seating at the edge of the world.
Catalonia views from the peak of Montserrat
But Montserrat has more surprises in store. At the heart of the mountain was the Basilica, a 16th-century church where masses and choral concerts are still being held. On the way to the church’s entrance is the Plaza de Santa Maria de Montserrat. Here, you can get a closer look at the monastery’s facade and the mountain where it’s built on.
A facade of the Basilica at Montserrat
Beyond the plaza is an atrium, preceding the entrance to the Basilica. Upon setting foot on marbled floors, you can see the facade of the church and the intricate sculpture of Jesus and the twelve apostles. From here, you can choose to proceed inside the chapel or go around the edge to see the famous Black Madonna.
Atrium of the Basilica at Montserrat
If you choose to see the chapel’s interior first, then the Gothic architecture will amaze you. It’s still in pristine condition hundreds of years after its construction in the 16th-century and restoration during the Peninsula War. The interior shines with gilded accents and frescoes surrounding the entirety of the chapel.
Interior of the Basilica at Montserrat
At the center above the cross, you can see the statue of Black Madonna or the Virgin of Montserrat. This statue bolsters the spiritual importance of the Basilica. Visitors can go around the right edge of the chapel and follow the stairway leading to the statue.
As one of the most venerated images in Spain, the Black Madonna continues to attract pilgrims and tourists alike. It sits upon a throne room that also serves as an altar. You will then see an exit leading to the Cami de l’Ave Maria or the Ave Maria Path. This area dedicates itself to paying homage to the Black Madonna by lighting a candle and praying to the Virgin Mary.
Mountain views of Montserrat
Outside, you will again be greeted by the same sights that made me fall in love with Montserrat. It might not have the grandeur of Gaudi’s creations or the majestic veneer of Spanish castles, but it brings a new perspective of the world from above.