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Museum of Montserrat: Where art, history, and spirituality meet

What to expect at the Museum of Montserrat

Egypt sarcophagus
The detail of painting of Fall of the Rebel Angels in the church Chiesa dell' Ascensione a Chiaia by Luca Giordano
black madonna, montserrat monastery
The Crowning with Thorns (c. 1603) by Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio (1571–1610). Kunsthistorisches Museum (Art History Museum) in Vienna
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A journey through time

The Museum of Montserrat takes you on a fascinating journey across centuries. Its collection begins with an Egyptian sarcophagus from the 13th century BC and continues with Greek, Mesopotamian, and Middle Eastern artifacts, connecting cultures from ancient times.

A treasure trove of medieval art

The museum houses an impressive medieval collection, with paintings from the 13th to 18th centuries. You’ll find masterpieces by artists like El Greco, Caravaggio, and Luca Giordano, along works by famous Catalan painters such as Fortuny and Rusiñol.

Home of the Black Madonna

One of the most famous exhibits is the gallery dedicated to Our Lady of Montserrat, also known as the Black Madonna. This section showcases art and artifacts inspired by the beloved patroness of Catalonia, a symbol of devotion and heritage.

Masters of modern art

With over 1,300 pieces, it showcases treasures from ancient times to modern masterpieces. The museum’s collection begins with an Egyptian sarcophagus from 13th century BC and spans Greek, Mesopotamian, and Middle Eastern artifacts. The medieval section features paintings from the 13th to 18th centuries, including works by El Greco, Caravaggio, and Luca Giordano.

Architecture of the Museum of Montserrat

Museum of Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey, Monistrol de Montserrat, Spain

Designed by Josep Puig i Cadafalch in 1929, the museum covers 1,500 square meters, it was renovated between 1980 and 1982 to improve its design and functionality. The museum is divided into sections that make exploring its exhibits easy:

  • Our Lady of Montserrat – Art dedicated to the Black Madonna.
  • Phos Hilaron Icons – Religious art from Byzantine and Slavic traditions.
  • Goldsmithery Collection – Liturgical objects from the 15th to 20th centuries, showcasing craftsmanship over time.
Plan your visit to Montserrat

Museum of Montserrat timings 

The Montserrat Museum operates daily, though hours vary by season:

  • Winter (November – March): 10am - 5:45pm
  • Summer (Late March – Late October): 10am - 6:45pm
  • Interactive Exhibition: 9am - 6:45pm (Weekdays) | Until 7:45pm (Weekends) 

Tip: Check in advance for early holiday closures.

​More about Montserrat timings

Getting to the Museum of Montserrat

The Black Madonna, which comprises of the Museum of Montserrat

Located just below St. Mary's Square, the museum is a quick 3 to 5-minute walk from the basilica.

From Barcelona (1 hour travel time, 60 km)

  • By Train: Take the FGC R5 line from Plaça d'Espanya to Monistrol de Montserrat, then choose between:
  • Cable Car (Aeri de Montserrat) – A 5-minute ride with amazing views.
  • Rack Railway (Cremallera) – A 15-minute scenic journey to the monastery.
  • By Bus: Direct buses run from Sants train station.
  • By Car: Drive via A-2 or AP-7, exit at Martorell, and follow signs to Monistrol de Montserrat. Limited parking is available.
  • On Foot: Hike up via trails like Camí de les Canals i de l’Aigua for a scenic climb.
Getting to Montserrat

Museum of Montserrat collections

A historical egyptian sarcophagus with a mummy inside

Archaeology of the Biblical East

.The highlight is an Egyptian sarcophagus from the 13th century BC, a relic that offers a glimpse into the funerary practices and beliefs of ancient Egypt. Alongside it, you’ll find artifacts from Mesopotamia, Greece, Cyprus, the Holy Land, and Egypt, each telling its own story of trade, religion, and daily life. These objects, ranging from pottery and jewelry to inscriptions and statues

Black Madonna in Montserrat Monastery, Spain, Catalonia

Our Lady of Montserrat

This section is dedicated to the evolving artistic representations of the Virgin of Montserrat, or La Moreneta, the patron saint of Catalonia. Over the centuries, the Black Madonna has been a symbol of faith, devotion, and Catalan identity.

More about the Black Madonna
Byzantine Icon inside Montserrat Museum

Phos Hilaron

This collection features about 160 Byzantine and Slavic icons. The name Phos Hilaron, meaning "Joyful Light," emphasizes the spiritual and visual impact of these religious paintings. This exhibit not only celebrates the artistry of Byzantine and Eastern Orthodox religious art but also highlights the role of light in these paintings, symbolizing divine presence and enlightenment.

Crucifix Christian cross , Religious symbol of Christianity .

Goldsmithery

Showcasing an extraordinary collection of liturgical objects from the 15th to the 20th century, this section brings to life the meticulous skill of artisans who crafted sacred vessels, reliquaries, crosses, and chalices for religious ceremonies. The exhibit traces the evolution of goldsmith techniques across centuries, offering insight into how religious devotion and artistic mastery combined to create these remarkable artifacts.

Backshot of a woman standing in front of a painting in the musuem

Painting from the 13th to the 18th century

This gallery takes visitors through five centuries of European art, featuring works by some of history’s greatest painters. Among them are Berruguete, El Greco, Caravaggio, and Tiepolo, artists known for their dramatic compositions, mastery of light and shadow, and intense emotional expression. Whether you admire the spiritual depth of El Greco or the realism of Caravaggio this collection is a great experience for any art lover.

Mediterranean Landscape by Pablo Picasso at Albertina Museum

19th and 20th century painting

A celebration of Catalan and European modern art, this collection highlights the works of Fortuny, Rusiñol, Picasso, and Dalí, offering a journey through the evolution of artistic styles in Spain and beyond. The gallery also includes French Impressionist masterpieces by Monet, Degas, and Renoir.

Lesser-known facts about the Museum of Montserrat

  • Many of the museum's priceless artifacts were not originally acquired by the monastery but were gifted by pilgrims, wealthy patrons, and collectors who wanted to contribute to Montserrat’s legacy
  • During Napoleon’s occupation of Spain (1808-1814), Montserrat Monastery was heavily damaged, and many religious treasures were lost or destroyed. However, some of the artworks housed in the museum today were saved from destruction.
  • Abbot Marcet, who led Montserrat in the 20th century, played a crucial role in expanding the museum's collection. His travels across Europe and the Middle East helped him acquire key pieces, including archaeological artifacts from the Biblical East and rare religious icons.
  • Although Montserrat is best known for its religious heritage, Pablo Picasso had a deep appreciation for Catalan culture, and his early works can be found in the museum.
  • Unlike most museum spaces, which are designed as standalone buildings, the Museum of Montserrat is built directly into the mountain, just below St. Mary’s Square. This placement allows it to blend seamlessly with the natural landscape while keeping its sacred connection to the monastery intact.
  • Some underground passages connect different parts of the monastery and museum, originally built for the monks to move discreetly between spaces. While not accessible to the public, these hidden routes hint at Montserrat’s long and mysterious history.
  • Montserrat has long been associated with the Holy Grail, inspiring myths and even attracting Nazi expeditions during World War II. While the museum does not hold the Grail itself, certain relics and medieval artifacts related to the legend have been displayed here, fueling speculation and intrigue.
  • Although the museum officially opened in 2014, its collection was assembled over more than 100 years. Some pieces have been part of Montserrat since the 19th century, while others were gradually acquired through donations and careful selection.

​About Montserrat's history

Frequently asked questions about the Museum of Montserrat

Are you allowed to touch the artworks?

Touching artworks is strictly prohibited to prevent damage like discoloration or surface wear. Visitors should maintain a safe distance from exhibits to preserve the integrity of the collections.

Can visitors bring food or drinks into the museum?

No, food and drinks are not allowed in most museum galleries to protect the artworks from spills and stains. Some museums may have designated eating areas outside exhibition spaces.

Are large bags permitted inside the Museum of Montserrat?

No, large bags and suitcases are generally not allowed in galleries. Security checks are conducted at the entrance, and items exceeding specific dimensions (usually around 55 x 35 x 20 cm) must be stored in lockers.

Is photography allowed inside the museum?

Photography policies vary by museum. Many allow personal photography but prohibit flash and professional equipment. Some exhibitions may have stricter rules, so visitors should check signage for guidelines.

What facilities are available for visitors with disabilities?

The museum is committed to accessibility, featuring wheelchair-accessible entrances and restrooms, designated seating areas, and trained staff to assist guests with disabilities. Visitors can reach out in advance for specific needs.

How long does a visit take?

Most visitors spend 45 minutes to 1.5 hours exploring the collection.

What are the museum’s must-see exhibits?

Highlights include Picasso’s early works, Monet’s landscapes, Caravaggio’s paintings, the Phos Hilaron icon collection, and the Archaeology of the Biblical East.

How can I get to the museum from Barcelona?

Take the FGC R5 train from Plaça d’Espanya to Monistrol de Montserrat, then board the rack railway or cable car to the monastery.

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