The origin of the monastery is uncertain, but it is believed that the Virgin of Monsterrat (La Moreneta) was found around 880. (8.30 am and 1.30 pm tours include tickets to La Moreneta). According to the legends, the monks built the monastery around the statue. The monastery still functions to this day with over 70 monks. The basilica of Montserrat began its construction in the 16th century, and now houses an art museum. It is also the place where la Escolania, one of the oldest Boys’ Choirs in Europe, performs during religious ceremonies (you can listen to them on the 9.30 am tour).

The "Moreneta" is the Virgin of Montserrat, the patron saint of Catalonia. It's a Romanesque wooden statue from the 12th century, darkened over time, which gives it its distinctive black appearance. Housed in the Montserrat Monastery, it holds deep spiritual and cultural significance for the Catalan people.

The long lines attracted by La Sagrada Familia, Antoni Gaudi’s modernist masterpiece, are a testament to its global renown. Spend less time lining up and more time sightseeing with a skip-the-line entry to the cathedral. Our small-group tour is limited to 12 people to ensure an intimate experience with your tour guide. Start your adventure to discover every corner of the UNESCO World Heritage -listed building. You will be first awed by the height of the building and its verticality, then you will admire the first of the façades and will be impressed by its uncountable details. Once inside, be amazed by the height of the vaults and the awesome stain glass. Get ready to immerse yourself in the majestic symphony of colors of the stained glass windows and stroll among tree-shaped columns. Your licensed tour guide will tell you all about the history of this project, its symbolism, and architectural solutions and share little-known anecdotes about its charismatic creator.