History
A Brief History of Montserrat Monastery in Catalonia, Spain
Montserrat Monastery has a fascinating history that goes all the way back to the 9th century, when a group of Benedictine monks settled in the remote mountainous region.
Legend has it that an image of the Virgin Mary hidden in a cave in the Montserrat mountains was discovered by shepherd boys in the year 880. When the nearest bishop wanted to move the image to the city, the image became progressively heavier, and it was decided that the image would stay on the mountain and be worshipped there.
Planning a trip to the historic mountaintop abbey? Bookmark our Montserrat Monastery website for the complete rundown on visiting Montserrat!
And if you’re just starting to plan your visit to Barcelona, check out the some of the top day trips from Barcelona, which you absolutely don’t want to miss!
Fleshing out your Barcelona itinerary? Browse our round-up of the top 10 things to do in Barcelona — iconic attractions and activities you just can’t miss on your first visit to this vibrant city, from La Sagrada Familia to Montjuic.
When was Montserrat Monastery built?
In the year 1025, Abbot Oliba commenced the construction of Montserrat Monastery and saw it to completion over the next several years.
Over time, as the Benedictine monk community here grew larger, the monastery complex was expanded.
Officially the Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey, the Montserrat Monastery continues to be an active Benedictine abbey to this day.
Significant Events in the History of Santa Maria de Montserrat
In 1811 and 1812, during the Peninsular War, French troops led by Napoleon invaded Spain and burned down and looted the Montserrat Abbey twice. During these attacks, many of Montserrat Monastery’s treasures were sadly lost.
In September 1881, Pope Leo XIII declared the Virgin of Montserrat the patron saint of Catalonia.
During the Spanish Civil War in the 1930s, several monks at Montserrat Monastery were killed along with other religious individuals.
Under Franco, Montserrat Monastery served as a place of refuge for scholars, artists, politicians, and students.
In 1947, a Mass was held to celebrate the enthroning of the Virgin of Montserrat.
Today Montserrat Monastery continues as an active Benedictine abbey, in addition to being a huge tourist attraction in Catalonia. It is the most day trip from Barcelona.