Montserrat: The spiritual heart of Catalonia

Just an hour from Barcelona rises a rocky massif unlike any other: Montserrat. Its unique shapes, reminiscent of saw teeth (hence its name, mons serratus: serrated mountain), have inspired imagination, devotion and legends for centuries. Montserrat is much more than a geological curiosity: it is a place steeped in symbolism, where history, faith, and tradition blend to create a truly unique cultural landscape.  

A sacred mountain, a monastery full of stories and legends, a black virgin rich in symbolism... Montserrat is more than just a place, it is an experience. With BusPlana, you can choose between two ways to discover it from the Costa Dorada. We are also the official airport transport provider, so you can buy official transfers tickets online for transfers from Barcelona Airport to the Costa Dorada.  

Origins and geology  

The formation of Montserrat began around 50 million years ago, when rivers deposited sediments of pebbles and clay which, over time and under pressure, formed conglomerates. Wind and water erosion sculpted the distinctive needles and monoliths that are so characteristic today and which, according to popular tradition, resemble human and animal figures. Some of the best-known peaks include Sant Jeroni (the highest, at 1,236 metres), Cavall Bernat and La Momia. 

The monastery: a spiritual beacon  

On the eastern slope of the mountain stands the Monastery of Santa María de Montserrat, a spiritual centre that began to develop around the 9th century. The first documented reference dates to 888, when Count Wilfred the Hairy donated the hermitage of Santa María to the Abbey of Ripoll. Over time, Benedictine monks settled in the area and founded the monastic community.  

During the Middle Ages, Montserrat consolidated its prestige as a place of pilgrimage. In the 13th century, a new Romanesque temple was built and miracles attributed to the Virgin of Montserrat were documented. The sanctuary’s importance grew, becoming a symbol of Catalan identity.  

The monastery was sacked and partially destroyed by Napoleon's troops in 1811, and suffered further damage during the Spanish Civil War, when documents and works of art were burned. However, it always rose from the ruins thanks to the perseverance of the monks and popular devotion. Today it remains a living place of spirituality and culture! 

La Moreneta: an image shrouded in mystery  

One of the monastery's main attractions is the Virgin of Montserrat, popularly known as ‘La Moreneta’ due to the dark colour of the wood used to carve her. According to legend, the statue was discovered in 880 by shepherds who saw a bright light and heard heavenly singing that led them to a cave. When they tried to move the statue, it became so heavy that they saw it as a sign the Virgin wished to remain there. It is said that the Virgin chose this place to be close to nature and protect her faith from the top of the mountain, turning Montserrat into a sacred and miraculous site.  

While legend places its origin in apostolic times, studies suggest that the current Romanesque carving dates from the 12th century. Regardless of its age, La Moreneta has become a profound symbol of Catalonia and is the region’s patron Saint. Every year, thousands of people make the pilgrimage to her chapel to pay homage.  

Legends and traditions 

Montserrat is a land of legends. One of the best-known holds that the mountain hides the Holy Grail and that its jagged shape was carved by angels to protect the divine secret within. Nazi commander Heinrich Himmler even visited in search of it, with the aim of helping the regime win the Second World War.  

It is also said that various testimonies, including mass sightings such as that of many citizens of Manresa in 1345, claim to have seen lights in the airspace above Montserrat. In the 1970s, there were those who claimed to have been abducted by extraterrestrials and later claimed that they have their monthly meeting there on the 11th, and even more so if it is Tuesday the 11th. Normally, there are many visitors who go to pray, meditate, sing, dance, or simply stroll on such a special date. 

Montserrat today 

Today, Montserrat remains a place of pilgrimage, a protected natural enclave, and an essential destination for anyone visiting Catalonia. Beyond its religious significance, the mountain attracts hikers, climbers, and curious travellers eager to learn its history and be inspired by its dramatic landscape.  

Visiting Montserrat is not just a day trip—it’s an immersion in centuries of stories, legends, and devotion that have shaped one of the most magical mountains in Europe.  

Discover Montserrat with BusPlana  

With BusPlana, you have two options to discover Montserrat.  

Montserrat + Simón Coll Chocolate Factory   

This excursion begins in the impressive Montserrat massif, where nature, history and spirituality intertwine. At the heart of the mountain is the Monastery of Santa María, home to the famous Virgin of Montserrat, known as ‘la Moreneta’. During the visit, you can stroll through its squares to contemplate the landscape from its scenic lookout.   

After this spiritual experience, the tour continues to a much sweeter destination: the Simón Coll Chocolate Factory. This artisan chocolate shop offers an immersive experience where you can learn about the chocolate-making process from the cocoa bean to final bar, along with a tasting that's sure to delight all chocolate lovers. 

Montserrat + Sitges by rack railway   

Alternatively, the Montserrat + Sitges rack railway experience begins with an unforgettable experience: the ascent to Montserrat on its iconic rack railway, offering spectacular views of the massif and its surrounding nature. Once at the top, you will have free time to visit the Benedictine monastery, admire the Virgin of Montserrat, and explore this spiritual sanctuary, a symbol of Catalonia and an enclave of great scenic and cultural wealth.    

Afterwards, the day continues with a change of atmosphere towards the coast. The excursion takes you to the bright and charming town of Sitges, where the Mediterranean meets art and history. You will have the opportunity to walk through its picturesque old town, enjoy its palm-lined promenade and discover a town that has been a refuge for artists, writers and bohemians for over a century.   

Other tourist visits with BusPlana 

BusPlana organizes excursions not only to Montserrat, but also to Barcelona, Valencia and Andorra. You can find all our excursions, check details and book your place directly on our website: www.busplana.com  

In addition to these organised excursions, BusPlana offers a comprehensive network of regular bus routes for convenient travel between the municipalities of the Costa Dorada, Camp de Tarragona and even Barcelona. Check all schedules and routes on our website. And if you arrive by plane, remember that we are the official airport transport provider, and you can buy official transfers tickets online for transfers from Barcelona Airport to the Costa Dorada.

Summer is synonymous with adventure. Start yours with BusPlana!