The Sanctuary of Montserrat
The Sanctuary of Monserrat is just 32 miles from Barcelona. It is nested in the middle of the most emblematic mountain in Catalonia and surrounded by a unique and spectacular landscape. More than two million people arrive every year due to the Marian importance of this place, as well as its cultural and natural importance. The Monastery the Benedictine monastery, founded by abbot Oliva on 1025 is one of the institutions that give monserrat its own personality. Approximately 70 monks dedicate their lives to work, prayer and to the welcoming service of pilgrims and visitors. The goal is to make Monserrat a prayer and meeting place. The main activities of the monks are the organization of the monastery and the sanctuary services, research and teaching, popularization of studies and training the choir. The library of the monastery has played a fundamental role in the preservation and popularization of the Catalonian Culture. It has more than 300,000 books and volumes. Th...