Today we spent a day touring Barcelona, and what a spirited day it was! Not one but two basilicas were on our list of must-see places here and they did not disappoint. First was the Basilica de la Sagrada Familia in the Gothic Quarter. The pictures do not do it justice at all. What gorgeous stained glass!
Here is just a small part of the sculpture on the outside
Off we went to Montserrat, the Benedictine monastery high in the serrated mountains near Barcelona
The original monastery was built in 1025 but was rebuilt several times due to damage by wars, invaders and changes in politics. Today 63 monks live, work and pray here. They have a huge claim to fame with the Black Madonna found here, according to legend, in a cave in 880 by two small boys.
We went up in a cable car to the area of Saint Joan. At the top we could look out and see the Mediterranean Sea! Of course, way at the top of the mountain where you least expect it…there just happened to be a cat who photo bombed my picture of the mountains!
After visiting two very spiritual areas, we went to dinner at a beautiful restaurant not far from the hotel. There the waiter treated our group to a bottle of Cava, the local “champagne”. We also had Cava Sangria, with orange, lemon and other juices and the Cava. 2 pitchers, thank you very much Rebecca and Sue! I don’t normally drink, but this was a spirited day…sorry…spiritual day!
How lucky you are to live near such a place!
Yes actually we found one close to our hotel. That was a real treat!
How amazing! We are going to Barcelona in June. It will be my first trip to Europe and I can't wait. Did you go to any fabric stores?
I am french and live near spain border. I often go to barcelona and sometimes to MONSERRAT. it's a very special place.
I am happy to learn you vewere there.
It is a wonderful place to visit, and La Sagrada was exceptional too!
Wonderful- I adore Barcelona, but have never yet made it to Montserrat