Spain Part II - Montserrat

On Day 2, James and I took a small detour from Barcelona. We went to Montserrat, a monestary that lies within the mountains of Catalonia. It is indescribable (and these pics don't do it justice). We took a train to the city that lies just outside of the mountains. Then we jumped on another train that slowing climbs the mountains. Once you get up there, there are a couple buildings - the actual monestary, a museum (which was being renovated), a few restaurants, a gift shop, etc. Surrounding this little group of buildings are amazingly tall rock mountain boulders on one side, and a view of Spain terrain that stretches forever on the other side. Here are a few pics...






James and I were racing to get up to Montserrat in time for the boys choir - which sing in the monastery at 1pm on Sundays. However, we missed it barely. But, we didn't miss the excellent festival that was going on. There was a live band and some sort of traditional dance performance. There were oldies, adults, youth, and little kiddies all dressed and performing to traditional Spanish music in traditional clothing. It was very cultural and very excellent.





In the monastery is the Black Madonna, which James and I waited like an hour to see in person. According to tradition, the Black Virgin of Montserrat was carved by St. Luke around 50 AD. It was then hidden in a cave until it was rediscovered in 880 AD. Legend has it that shepherds saw a bright light and heard heavenly music which led them to the statue. Pretty cool.





Here is the a shot of the rock formations from a different angle. They look like they are almost serrated. Legend has it that they were carved by angels with golden saws.



So, that is Montserrat. A Spain must-see. Gorgeous. It made me want to be a monk-ette.

Look forward to the next post - it will include Pamplona, San Sebastian, and Basque Country!!!!!!