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Everything you need to know about the history of Montserrat Monastery

Montserrat Monastery: A journey through history

Montserrat Monastery is a balm for the soul. Beneath the shadow of jagged peaks, Montserrat rises like a sanctuary carved from the very heart of nature. Standing at 1,236 meters, this ancient mountain offers stunning views of Catalonia’s lush hinterland, but beyond its beauty lies a story woven through centuries—a tale of faith, resilience, and devotion. As you ascend, the whispers of history greet you, urging you to uncover the rich heritage of the Benedictine monks who once sought solitude in this sacred place.

​All about Montserrat Monastery

A detailed timeline of Montserrat Monastery's history

  • 7th Century: Hermits use Montserrat, erecting tiny chapels across the range over centuries.
  • 8th & 9th Centuries: Moorish occupation during the Islamic armies' rule.
  • 880 AD: Legend of The Black Madonna ("La Moreneta") begins as pastors find the holy statue on Montserrat, leading to the construction of the chapel of Santa Maria.
  • 1025 AD: Monastery of Santa Maria de Montserrat is built next to the chapel.
  • 1811: French troops sack and burn the abbey and chapels during the French War, leading to the disuse and destruction of twelve hermitages.
  • 1881: The reconstructed abbey is consecrated as a basilica, and Our Lady of Montserrat is proclaimed Patron Saint of Catalonia.
  • 19th Century: Reconstruction in the late 19th century involved artists associated with the Art Nouveau movement (Modernism in Catalonia) and Montserrat became a cultural and religious landmark in Spain.

Montserrat Monastery history explained

As Montserrat is the namesake of Montserrat Monastery, here is a closer look at the history of this iconic and sacred destination.

Origins

According to legend, in 880, a group of shepherds saw blinding light coming out of a cave and heavenly music playing all around. When they approached the cave, they found a statue of the Virgin Mary. A small chapel was established there in the late 9th century, known as Santa Cova, situated a short hike away from Montserrat Monastery today. Soon, word of the healing powers and blessings of the Virgin spread and pilgrims were pouring in.

Founding of Montserrat Monastery

In 1025, Abbott Oliva of Ripoll decided to found a monastery, close to the cave where the patron saint first appeared. Thanks to the venerated statue of the Virgin, the monastery steadily became more popular and powerful. It is said that friar from Montserrat Monastery travelled with Christopher Columbus and that is how this Caribbean island came to be known as Montserrat.

Napoleon's Invasion

In 1808, Napoleon invaded Spain and the monks flee from Montserrat Monastery, taking whatever valuables they could. The French army set fire to the monastery and tried to take over Montserrat, but failed to do so the first time, making Montserrat one of the only three places the French couldn't capture by 1811. However, they attacked again and the monastery was looted and set ablaze again.

Restoration of the Monastery

In 1844, the monks came back to the monastery and the restoration of the monastery is slowly underway. The Escolania choir that was dismissed during Napoleon's invasion was regrouped and the monastery's recovery became a symbol of Catalan patriotism. Renowned artists and architects set to work on the monastery including Puig i Cadafalch, Francesc de Paula i Villar and a young Antoni Gaudi. In 1881, the Pope Leo XIII declared the Virgin the patron saint of Catalonia.

The evolution of architecture at Montserrat

The architecture of Montserrat may not initially seem remarkable, but the integration of these buildings with their natural surroundings captivates visitors. The jagged mountain forms the backdrop for the basilica, the monastery, and the various chapels. Over the centuries, Gothic, Renaissance, and Modernista influences have merged to create the structures seen today.

Notable features include the basilica housing the revered Black Madonna, with its stunning arches and intricate design, and the Santa Cova Chapel, where the Madonna is said to have been found. Each stone tells a story, and the monastery stands as a testament to human ingenuity and faith, perfectly in harmony with the natural world around it.

Montserrat Monastery today

Today, Montserrat Monastery is home to around 80 monks and the children of the Escolania choir. It has become a famous pilgrimage center in Spain and is a thriving community known for its cultural and historical relevance. Montserrat Museum is also one of the most complete galleries in Spain with works by Caravaggio, El Greco, Degas, Monet, Ramon Casas, Santiago Rusiñol, Picasso and Dalí.

What role do monks play at Montserrat today?

Today, approximately 100 monks reside at Montserrat Monastery, continuing their dedication to prayer, work, and community service. They conduct daily religious services, care for the Black Madonna, and maintain traditions such as the famous Montserrat Boys’ Choir. The monks also engage with visitors, providing insights into their monastic life and fostering a welcoming atmosphere for pilgrims and tourists alike.

​Plan your visit to Montserrat Monastery

Key events and celebrations of Montserrat Monastery

Religious festivals

Easter celebrations

  • Holy week: You will find Montserrat particularly vibrant during Holy Week. The community gathers for solemn ceremonies, including the reenactment of the Passion of Christ.
  • Easter mass: On Easter Sunday, a special mass is held that attracts both locals and pilgrims, celebrating the resurrection of Jesus with music and prayers.

Feast of the assumption: Celebrated on August 15, this feast honors the Virgin Mary's assumption into heaven. The monastery holds special masses and processions.

Christmas celebrations: In December, the Christmas season at Montserrat features traditional carols sung by the famous Montserrat Boys' Choir (Escolania). Special liturgies are conducted to celebrate the birth of Christ, making it a spiritually uplifting time for you to experience.

Montserrat festival

Montserrat music festival

  • This annual event showcases various musical performances, often featuring choirs from around the world. The Escolania performs regularly, captivating audiences with their angelic voices. The festival promotes choral music and fosters cultural exchange among participants.

Golden voices of Montserrat

  • An international choir competition is held annually (April-May), and this festival invites choirs from around the globe to perform in the basilica. It serves as a platform for showcasing vocal talent and includes workshops and masterclasses led by renowned conductors.
Pilgrimages & festivals

Year-round pilgrimages

  • Montserrat is one of Spain's most important pilgrimage sites, second only to Santiago de Compostela. You can visit year-round to seek blessings from La Moreneta. Many pilgrims come on foot, following established trails that lead to the monastery, reflecting a deep spiritual commitment.

Sant Joan festival

  • Celebrated on June 24, this festival marks the summer solstice with bonfires and traditional Catalan festivities. It includes music, dance, and communal meals, fostering a sense of community among locals and visitors alike.

Montserrat's cultural heritage events

  • Various events throughout the year highlight Catalan traditions, including folk music performances, art exhibitions, and culinary fairs that showcase local cuisine and crafts.

Frequently Asked questions and answers about Montserrat Monastery's history

Montserrat holds historical significance as a sacred site dating back to the 7th century. It witnessed many important events, everything from the appearance of the Virgin Lady to being attacked by Napoleon's troops.