Barcelona Shore Excursion

This Barcelona shore trip takes you into the beautifully unique Montserrat Mountains to one of Catalonia's holiest places, the Montserrat Monastery, where you enjoy a visit of the Basilica interior and museum.

Leaving the city you head to Montserrat Mountain (Serrated Mountain), rising majestically almost 4,000 feet above sea level. This area is unique in the world and is now a natural park. The famous monastery is located within this almost incomparable setting of geologic beauty.

The monastery has existed since the 9th century and was enlarged overtime to its present glory. But during the 1811 War of Independence, France attacked Catalonia. The monastery was destroyed and the monks killed. Soon after it was rebuilt and today the site is one of Spain's holiest shrines, inhabited by Benedictine Monks.

You will marvel at the beautiful square, courtyards and panoramic views of the monastery. During your visit you'll go inside the Basilica's beautiful interior and see the Moreneta Black Virgin. On select days you may even have the opportunity to hear the Escolania singing the Montserrat hymn.

Next you explore the main museum at Montserrat, which houses six different permanent collections and also hosts temporary exhibitions. A lot of visitors to Montserrat are not aware of the treasures that lie within the museum. You will find the likes of Picasso, Dali and Caravaggio nestled in amongst less well-known artists. There are over 1300 pieces housed in the museum covering a broad historical period: the earliest exhibit is an Egyptian sarcophagus from 13th century BC and the most recent exhibit is a sculpture from 2001 by Joseph M Subirachs.

Mobility: Folding wheelchair OK, some sites may be inaccessible (advance notice required)