Montserrat
Monstserrat mountain soars above the surrounding Catalan countryside, its rugged peaks standing out against the sky. The morning we visited was mid winter and the mountain was shrouded in mist and the air was icy.
One thousand years ago, monks from Ripoli founded the monastery of Santa Maria de Montserrat. They could not have imagined that ten centuries later the Benedictine monastery would still exist.
Celebrations for the one thousandth anniversary began in September last year and run until December this year; over 1000 days of religious, cultural and social events to mark the amazing milestone. When we visited there were many people visiting Montserrat as part of a religious pilgrimage.
The interior of the basilica is beautiful and holds many treasures, including the famous 12th century wooden statue of the Black Madonna who is reputed to have miraculous powers.
That scenery blows the mind. So much history. So much culture. So much time. I don’t feel so old in the presence of that place. Thanks again. You are helping us ‘experience’ a little of what you are seeing and living.
ReplyDeleteThanks Neville, it's a truly amazing place and very spiritual.
ReplyDelete