Majestic Montserrat: A Sacred Jewel of Catalonia and the Countryside Lunch!
- harshahirdyani19
- Apr 29, 2024
- 5 min read
Updated: May 22, 2024
Montserrat is a breathtaking mountain range located near Barcelona (Catalonia), Spain. Its name, which means "serrated mountain" in Catalan, aptly describes its unique jagged peaks that rise dramatically from the surrounding landscape. As I ventured from bustling Barcelona to the serene slopes of Montserrat, I couldn't help but marvel at the breathtaking beauty of Catalonia's iconic mountain range. With its rugged cliffs and mystical allure, Montserrat provided a soul-stirring backdrop for exploration and contemplation.
The first documented mention of Montserrat in 888 reported the construction of an initial monastery around 880 AD. It was hermit monks who had built various hermitages on Montserrat. The monastery was then founded in 1025 through the expansion of the hermitage of Santa Maria.
For centuries, Montserrat has been a place of pilgrimage and spiritual retreat, drawing seekers from all walks of life in search of solace, inspiration, and enlightenment, its not just a natural wonder; it's also home to the Benedictine monastery of Santa Maria de Montserrat, which has been a place of pilgrimage and worship for over a thousand years. Perched on a ledge halfway up the mountain, the monastery is a stunning architectural masterpiece, blending seamlessly with the rugged terrain.
One of the most iconic features of Montserrat is the statue of the Virgin of Montserrat, the "Black Madonna", housed in the monastery's basilica, believed to have been discovered by shepherds in a cave is a symbol of Catalonia and a focal point of religious devotion for pilgrims from around the world.
The Escolania music school in this monastery is one of the oldest of its kind in Europe. The Montserrat boys choir consists of around fifty escolanets who sing in the basilica nearly everyday. These students live in the monastery’s boarding school. The monks who reside in Montserrat play an essential role in preserving the spirituality and culture of the place. They conduct daily religious services and maintain the musical tradition with the famous Montserrat Boys’ Choir.
In addition to its religious significance, Montserrat is also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering countless hiking trails that wind through its rocky landscape. Visitors can explore hidden caves, lush forests, and panoramic viewpoints, all while soaking in the natural beauty of the surroundings. Whether you're drawn to Montserrat for its spiritual significance, its stunning natural scenery, or its wealth of outdoor activities, one thing is certain: a visit to this majestic mountain range is an unforgettable experience that will leave a lasting impression.
Exploring the Culinary Delights
While Montserrat is renowned for its spiritual and natural beauty, it also offers a delightful culinary experience that reflects the rich gastronomic traditions of Catalonia. Here are some highlights of the food and wine you can savor in the region:
Local Cheeses: Catalonia is known for its artisanal cheeses, and Montserrat is no exception. One of the popular ones are Mató, a fresh and creamy cheese often served with honey or fruit, or Garrotxa, a semi-hard cheese with a mild, nutty flavor. (The residents of Montserrat set up stalls featuring these cheeses and pure honey from local farms. I had the opportunity to taste the Mató paired with a drizzle of rosemary-infused honey, and it was truly one of the best desserts I've ever had- so fresh and delightfully rustic)
Mountain Stews: The hearty cuisine of Montserrat includes warming mountain stews made with locally sourced ingredients such as tender lamb, hearty beans, and aromatic herbs. These comforting dishes are perfect for fueling adventures in the rugged landscape.
3. Artisanal Bread: Catalonia boasts a long tradition of bread-making, and Montserrat is no different. The crusty loaves of rustic bread, where each loaf is crafted with care and expertise passed down through generations. Made with locally sourced ingredients and baked to perfection in traditional wood-fired ovens.
I was pleasantly surprised by a local staple bread enjoyed as breakfast or as a side dish with meals - Pan Con Tomate, it was so flavourful and yummy with a rustic charm and straightforward preparation. You just need to take a slice of bread, rub it with a clove of garlic, then squeeze and spread with tomato pulp on it. A generous drizzle of local olive oil and a sprinkle of salt completes the dish. The burst of flavors in every bite is truly remarkable and irresistible.
4. Local Wines: Montserrat is surrounded by vineyards that produce excellent wines like the robust red wine from the Priorat region or a crisp white from the Penedès, both of which pair beautifully with the local cuisine. Montserrat is also known for its herbal and fruity liquors made from hazelnut, figs, cherries etc. These liqueurs are made by macerating a blend of local fruits, herbs, roots, and botanicals in alcohol, resulting in complex and aromatic beverages with medicinal properties.
5. Catalan Sweets: The Catalan desserts are absolutely fresh and flavourful. One of the most popular one is as Crema Catalana, a creamy custard topped with caramelized sugar, another is Xuixos, flaky pastries filled with crema catalana or chocolate.
6. Farm-to-Table Dining: Montserrat provides a feast of fresh flavors through farm-to-table dining experiences available at local restaurants and guesthouses. Enjoy dishes crafted from ingredients sourced straight from nearby farms, guaranteeing the utmost quality and authenticity.
After a day of exploration among the towering peaks and sacred sites of Montserrat, I returned to the embrace of the Spanish countryside - a tranquil oasis of rolling hills, olive groves, and rustic charm. Nestled in this idyllic setting was an organic farm, where I had the pleasure of indulging in a countryside lunch that surpassed all expectations.
Spanish Serenity: A Countryside Lunch to Remember
As I reflect on my experience of a beautiful countryside lunch in Spain, every moment seems like a scene from a painting, vibrant and alive with the essence of Spanish culture and cuisine. The setting was enchanting - a picturesque Spanish cortijo (farmhouse) nestled amidst rolling hills adorned with olive trees. Seated at a rustic wooden table on a sun-drenched terrace, I found myself immersed in the tranquility of the countryside.
The meal itself was a culinary journey through the flavors of Spain. We started with a house wine from the farm vineyard, along with a tantalizing tapas platter - a colorful assortment of marinated olives, Escalivada (eggplant, olives and roasted peppers bruschetta), Spanish omelette, slices of the Spanish delicacy Morcilla (sausage made with ground pork, mixed with pig's blood, along with seasonings and spices), Jamón Ibérico (cured ham made from the meat of the Iberian pig), Chorizo, and Butifarra, a very special sausage made from pork. Each bite was a burst of flavor, a testament to the rich culinary heritage of Spain.
Next came the pièce de résistance (main dish) - the paella or rather the Catalonian version of it known as of Fideuà, where they use pasta instead of rice to make paella. Rich and fragrant pasta, infused with the flavors of Spanish saffron and paprika with the freshest seafood imaginable. To balance the richness of the paella, we enjoyed a crisp ensalada (salad), followed by sips of refreshing house wine. This was followed by hearty meat selections which included Ibérico pork sausages and lamb chops.
Next was the traditional Spanish dessert, Crème Catalana, which was extremely fresh and flavorful. After the hearty meal, we were presented with the option of digestive liqueurs or herbal teas. For those opting for a digestive, Ratafia was offered - a walnut-based liqueur infused with herbs and spices, renowned for aiding digestion and cleansing the palate. Alternatively, a soothing herbal tea infusion, crafted from a blend of fennel, anise, and mint, was available to aid in digestion and promote overall well-being, tasted incredible.
One of the most memorable aspects of the experience was the company. Though I was traveling solo but I had the pleasure of sharing lunch with a diverse group of guests hailing from various countries and continents, such as New Zealand, Finland, Australia, Germany, Brazil and beyond. We exchanged laughter, anecdotes, and experienced moments of sheer delight, bonding over our mutual appreciation for delicious food and stunning surroundings.
It was a moment of pure bliss, a memory I will cherish forever - a beautiful countryside lunch in Spain, where every detail was a testament to the richness and warmth of Spanish culture.
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