When you travel to Barcelona, visiting Montserrat is non-negotiable. This iconic mountain, located just 45 km from the city, is not only the heart of Catalonia but also a symbol of its identity. A holy and magical place, it attracts thousands of pilgrims each year—and for good reason.
But Montserrat isn’t just any mountain. It’s got jagged peaks, fascinating history, and a touch of mystery that even Indiana Jones would envy. Let’s dive into five fun (and slightly weird) facts about this incredible destination:
1. What’s in a Name?
Montserrat literally means “Jagged Mountain,” a nod to its sharp, saw-like peaks. But according to legend, these peaks weren’t carved by erosion or time—oh no. Angels descended with a golden saw and sculpted the mountain to create a throne for the Virgin Mary. Divine landscaping at its finest!
2. A Monastery with a Makeover
The Monastery of Montserrat may look historic, but most of it is actually a reconstruction. Why? Napoleon’s army decided to play wrecking ball in the early 19th century, leaving only a few original walls standing. So next time you visit, remember: you’re walking through history... and some impressive rebuilding efforts.
Interior of the Basilica
3. Europe’s Oldest Choir with the Toughest Admissions
The Escolania of Montserrat isn’t just any choir—it’s the oldest registered choir in Europe, dating back to the 14th century. But getting in is no joke. Young boys aged 9 to 14 must prove themselves in three areas: musical talent, academic brilliance, and social adaptability. Think of it as Hogwarts for choir prodigies, but with fewer spells and more hymns.
4. A Library Straight Out of a Movie
Montserrat’s library houses over 300,000 books, many written in the 14th and 15th centuries. Covering topics like religion, humanities, music, and science, it’s a treasure trove of knowledge. But here’s the catch: unless you’re a monk, professor, or researcher, you’ll have to admire it from the outside. No sneaky selfies allowed.
5. Nazis, Grails, and a Wagner Obsession
Montserrat has always attracted all sorts of visitors, but perhaps the strangest was Heinrich Himmler. Yes, that Himmler. During World War II, he came to Montserrat convinced the Holy Grail was hidden in one of its caves, inspired by Richard Wagner’s opera Parsifal. Spoiler alert: he didn’t find it. Apparently, life isn’t as convenient as an Indiana Jones movie.
Nazis in Montserrat: Himmler’s WWII visit searching for the Holy Grail
Bonus Tip: Pair Your Pilgrimage with a Glass of Wine
After soaking in Montserrat’s beauty and legends, why not treat yourself to some wine? The foothills of the mountain are home to incredible wineries. Book a Montserrat and wine tour with Castlexperience and turn your day trip into a feast for the senses. Holy mountain, heavenly wine—what more could you want?
Montserrat Wine Tour: Combine Montserrat’s beauty with a taste of Catalonia’s finest wines.