A very interesting attraction is the Benedictine monastery of Montserrat (Spain). How to get to it, many tourists are interested. It is a religious and spiritual symbol of the province of Catalonia, as well as a major center of pilgrimage. Many artists and sculptors of the 19th and 20th centuries worked on its exterior and interior.
Therefore, it is not surprising that Montserrat Monastery is so popular with pilgrims. Spain considers it one of the objects of national pride. An altar was carved out of the rock and then richly decorated with silver.
Antonio Gaudi, a world famous and talented architect, was directly involved in the creation and decoration of the altar chapel. The main hall of the cathedral looks very solemn and magnificent. Here is a black sculpture of Mary of Montserrat. Her silver throne, as a sign of reconciliation after the civil war, was made at the expense of ordinary people. A statueis one of the main, but not the only attractions that the monastery of Montserrat (Spain) has.
Up to a hundred Benedictine monks live in it at the same time. It is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. About 2 million pilgrims come here every year. Of course, the statue of the Black Madonna attracts the most people to the basilica. Leading geographic services have marked Montserrat Monastery (Spain) on the map as an important attraction. The legend says that if a person makes a wish and kisses the hand of the Black Madonna, then it will certainly come true. This is especially helpful for people who are unable to conceive.
In the statue's right hand is a sphere, symbolizing the earth that the Creator created. Her left hand is on the baby's shoulder. The infant represents the all-powerful king. His left hand is squeezing a cone - a symbol of longevity and fertility. With his right hand he blesses.
Why is the sculpture black? This is the main question that interests people visiting the monastery of Montserrat. Spain is a Catholic country, which a priori implies piety. However, the explanations that exist are very mundane. According to one version, the Madonna symbolizes the earth, which is why the color is so. Another explanation is that the statue is made of wood that has darkened over time or because of candle soot. Some believe that it is covered with a special varnish layer. However, whichever version is correct, the Black Madonna continues to attract pilgrims to the monastery of Montserrat. Spainearns very good money from tourism.
On the territory of the basilica there is a very interesting museum, which exhibits the works of monks (icons), jewelry, archaeological finds from the Middle East, paintings and much more. The monastery is famous for its huge library, which contains many medieval handwritten books. The monastery printing house is one of the oldest in the country. Therefore, tourists will have something to see here.
