Barcelona

The story of Montserrat reaches far in history as the mountains have been a place of worship since the ancient days. Romans were the first to dedicate this place to godess Venus. Later, when the statue of Black Madonna was brought the legend says Benedictine monks couldn't move it to build the monastery. Instead, they chose to build the monastery around it. This famous Romanesque statue is the main reason why so many people pilgrimage to the monastery to pray and experience the beauty and tranquility of the Catalan mountains. From here you'll be able to observe whole Catalonia and the view is so stunning that many people take overnight hikes to see the dawn rising. Another thing that makes Montserrat special is one of the oldest boy choires in Europe who even sometimes perform in the basilica. There's also a museum, cointaining works from great artists like Picasso, Dalí and Carravagio as well a series of objects from ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia and Holy Land.

If you're looking to venture here, you can take a half-day trip or even add some other places to your itinerary to make it a full day excursion. For example, you can include Barcelona and visit some of the world's most famous sights like Sagrada Familia or take a trip to Girona and enjoy the day in this historical town and learn more about its interesting culture. For those who wish to take a more laid back trip, you can visit wineries in Cordoniu, Torres or Penedes. There you'll be able to visit vineyards, learn about the process of wine making and then actually taste some of the wines and cavas – a famous kind of Spanish sparkling wine.

Montserrat is truly a glorious place to see – you'll never forget the magnificent sights and slightly mysterious atmosphere revolving around this sanctuary. Visit for yourself and find out what makes this place so special.