We walked down to Plaza España as all the school children were heading to school.
At Plaza España one of the main landmarks is the large bullring, which is now a large shopping centre.
Our destination today was the Benedictine monastery of Monserrat.
We eventually found the station and our train left at 10.30. A one and a half hour journey.
We eventually found the station and our train left at 10.30. A one and a half hour journey.
Monserrat is situated high in the Catalan Pre- Coastal Range - 1,236m above sea level.
First founded in the 1025 and has undergone many changes over the centuries.
80 Benedictine monks reside there.
Impressive views from the onset
There are several modes of transport to arrive at the peak - road, cable car, funicular and rack rail.
A well designed centre with accommodation, shops and restaurants, all below the basilica and the large forecourt.
Olivia had plenty of space to practise her cartwheels
Outside the Basilica
In an internal courtyard we were able to watch a short mass featuring the boys’ choir, an institution here since the 1200s.
Inside the Basilica, including queuing to see the Black Madonna.
Regrouping.
Maugie, John, Claudia and Olivia walked one of the trails and we took an earlier train back.
Home on the 3.15 rack rail and train back to Plaza España.
A little retail therapy in the Arena shopping precinct before catching the bus home.
Dinner at Casa Amalia, a recommended restaurant, hidden down an alley way, a few blocks from the apartment.
Some very exciting dishes, including pigs’ trotters!
Abdul, our waiter, weaving his magic. He is originally from the Spanish colony of Guinea in Africa.
M&M
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