CultureHiking

Montserrat Afternoon Tour & Black Madonna Priority Access

4.3(1990 reviews)Barcelona, Spain
5h30DurationEnglish, SpanishOffered inMobile ticketTicketNot includedPickupEasyLevel

About this experience

This half-day tour takes you to Montserrat to visit the Basilica of Montserrat and the Virgin Mary, known as La Moreneta. You will have the opportunity to explore the sanctuary and learn about the historical lives of the monks. The tour includes a ride on the cogwheel train for scenic views of the surrounding nature. It is suitable for those interested in religious history and natural beauty. The tour does not include meals or additional attractions outside Montserrat.

Itinerary

1

Abadia De Montserrat

Accompanied by your local guide, you will discover the history of Montserrat Monastery and its unique architecture. Marvel at the harmonious combination of Gothic and Renaissance styles in its basilica and sanctuary. You will learn about the legend that explains the great spiritual importance of the place: the miraculous appearance of an image of the Madonna and Child in one of the caves in the mountain, the Santa Cova. This wood carving, popularly known as La Moreneta, is preserved today in the monastery church. Its characteristic dark colour is due to the oxidation of the varnish over time. Montserrat is also an important centre of spirituality. A community of approximately 80 Benedictine monks currently lives in the monastery, following the Rule of Saint Benedict. In addition to the main monastic complex, the mountain is home to numerous churches and hermitages, some of which are now abandoned, reinforcing the mystical character of the place.

2

Montserrat Mountains

Your guided tour includes tasting excellent local liqueurs, a visit to the Audiovisual Space and access to La Moreneta. After the guided tour, you will have free time to admire the fabulous scenery and visit the market selling local agricultural and typical products.

What's included / not included

Entrance to the audio-visual exhibition “Espai Audio visual Montserrat”Transportation on an air-conditioned coachAccess to the Basilica and the Black MadonnaCog-wheel train down from MontserratTaste of 4 typical liquors of the areaLocal GuideRadio guide system

Additional information

Accessibility and comfort

  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Good to know

  • Note that the La Escolania children's choir does not perform in the afternoon
  • Correct dress code is requested to enter the Basilica at Montserrat. It is not permitted to enter with tank tops, strapless shirts, short shorts or sandals
  • Queues to see the Black Madonna may occur depending on season
  • Tour operated in both Spanish and English

Traveller reviews

4.31990 reviews

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