Montserrat...
Considering my website quote reads “jetlag is for amateurs”… it would be hypocritical to cancel this tour just because we traveled across the world and arrived late without a change of clothes… We did choose not to walk and instead opted for a taxi. The walk wouldn’t have been bad but more than I was ready to put forth an effort… especially before coffee!!!
Meeting at the train station, we presented our printed tickets to the counter for check-in. We were assigned to and jumped on a comfortable bus. Settling in for the hour long drive, would we be able to stay awake?. On the outskirts of Barcelona, through tunnels and out toward the mountain ranges visible in the distance…Outside the city limits the view became picturesque… no sleep for me!
Montserrat is a stunning, rocky range of mountains. “Serrat” as in serrated… like the serrated edges of a knife. These perfectly named mountains are located in the heart of Catalonia. To be honest, I probably took a hundred photos of jagged rocks along this drive. Each range unique… powerfully beautiful.
Once off the bus, the photo on the left was our initial view. The Benedictine Monastery known as Montserrat… nestled in the jagged, rocky mountains, this area has quite a history. On the right shows one of the many booths of local farmers and ranchers selling their wares. Of course we had to support the local economy by purchasing a special honey, glazed and roasted almonds, a couple kinds of cheese and a gluten free baked good.
Through the arch, up the steps and into the open courtyard. This area is believed to have been established in the 9th century. Around the year 1811, the original monastery was burned down by Napoleon’s troops. Many priests and religious leaders were killed on these grounds during the Spanish Civil War.
More than 70 monks live at this Monastery. Nuns live in villages at the base of the mountain. The works of the monks include welcoming visitors, prayer and chores. They begin and end each day with prayer.. Typically, the monks get five hours of sleep a night and earn one week of vacation a year… otherwise, their life is dedicated to serving the Lord.
Lining the perimeter of the courtyard, we found a line of perfectly formed arches. Over the edge, through the arches lies an unbelievable view of Spanish landscape. Photos of these views can be found later in this post. As you can see, we were blessed with a sunshiny day!
Outside the Basilica, in the atrium referred to as the Atrium of Abbot Argerich, we found themed designs. On the right side are shrines dedicated to events of historical Christianity. On the left side art depicts the history of Montserrat. Rebuilt after Napolean’s War, the ornate decor is considered Gothic architecture influenced by the Romans and Catalan cultures.
Selfie time! Preparing to enter the Basilica, we looked up over the threshold and noticed the most intricate carvings. Jesus and his twelve disciples in fine detail. The workmanship is impressive… columns, framing, facial features and clothing almost come to life. The sculptor had the ability to create a sense of motion… the robes had a flowing feel.
Wow! Stunning architectural design… Every inch of the Basilica has incredible detail. From lighting to the sculpture work, it is a true piece of art. Tiled patterns visible on the floors were influenced by Capitolium in Rome, designed by Michelangelo. This house of worship also uses Latin language, as well as, Catalan region themes.
Looking beyond the wooden pews, a series of chapels line both sides of the Basilica. These are only to be visited by monks. Each chapel is decorated with a biblical meaning. The Chapel of the Most Holy One includes a beautiful, large stained glass window. One chapel depicts the story of the Exodus to Egypt. Other chapters include Chapel of the Holy Christ and The Chapel of the Immaculate Conception. Each ornately decorated, each with a story to tell.
Hanging over the alter, suspended in the center of a circle is a powerful sculpture of Jesus. Nailed to a cross of solid gold, the ivory carved body was lit by spot lights. Such a powerful sight! We sat on the pews for several minutes taking in the meaning behind what was before us.
A couple more angles of the Basilica.
As always, the vibrant colors of light shining through the stained glass was impressive. Like the illustrations from a book, the details bring the bible to life. Lining the perimeter of the Basilica were these lights. The design comes from the Catalan artistry. Actually candles, each holder was unique in its look.
Walking out the door of the Basilica and taking a right turn, we walked into a cave-like area. Carved into the rock, this is a prayerful place on the grounds. Several candles glowing and crates of candles for “donation”. Light a candle, say a prayer for friends and family.
Perspective… it’s all about perspective in this monastery. Arches aimed at the jagged rocks surrounding the grounds. The designers took advantage of this stunning location. Turning the corner to walk out of the atrium and into the courtyard is breathtaking! My goal is to one day see this at sunrise and sunset. It’s one of those places that changes with the position of the sun.
Earlier in the post, I described the view through the arches… Click on each of these photos to get a good look at these magnificent rock mountains! The photo on the left is a ridge situated straight across the valley outside the arch. For those who dared, it looked far but was only a 45 minute round trip up a paved path. There is a cable car that runs up the side of the mountain and a funicular that goes up a steep slope to the very top. My fear of heights rule that possibility out… not for me. But I can only imagine the view would be spectacular!
Our daily “selfie”… Although hubby hates photos, most specifically selfies, he agrees to them in remarkable locations. THIS qualifies as remarkable…
This was our drop off and meeting place. Our first and last impression…
Our friends… traveling companions… settled onto a bench waiting for the bus to return. They had a great view of the valley below. Within a short time, we jumped back on the bus and headed for our next stop…
