The Route of the Cistercian Monasteries from Barcelona

Description

Along the Cistercian Route we take a trip to the charm of the Cistercian monasteries that link the three counties of La Conca de Barberà, Alt Camp and Urgell. The Route of the Cistercian Monasteries from Barcelona will take you to the UNESCO World Heritage Site Real Monasterio de Poblet (Poblet Monastery), where you will learn about the amazing history behind the tombs of the Kings that ruled the Crown of Aragon and the monks that still nowadays inhabitate the Monastery.

The Cistercian order was founded by Robert de Champagne in 1075 in Molesme and was afterwards moved to Citeaux in Burgundy where it was recognized by Pope Pascal III. The order reformed the Rule of Benedict and in 1112 Saint Bernard joined its forces. Over the next centuries the order gained a lot of power, eventually leading to its dominance all over Europe. By 1350 there were no fewer than 700 Cistercian monasteries and over 750 nunneries. In the field of architecture the order came to play an important role, making the Gothic style spread across Europe.

After that it will be time to enjoy a lunch break. Meals are not included and guests can choose from a variety of options: Wine and food matching lunch in a traditional ‘masía’ (Catalan farmstead) or a ‘calçotada’ (chargrilled shallots with dipping sauces).

Our journey through time will continue with the Monasterio de Santes Creus, founded in 1150. We will visit the Vila-rodona columbarium, the tomb of King Pere el Gran (Peter III of Aragon) and the Romanesque church of El Pla, dedicated to St. Mary. The monastery complex was declared a National Historical and Artistic Monument in 1951.

Highlights

• Full-day Cister Route tour
• Discover the amazing history and legacy of the Cistercian order
• Explore the Poblet Real Monastery
• Visit to Santa Creus Monastery
• Taste traditional local dishes during the lunch break near Poblet

What’s included

• Comfortable air-conditioned vehicle with manual or lift ramp access and wheelchair tie-downs
• Private official local guide and full guided visit to Poblet Real Monastery and Santa Creus Monastery
• Pick-up and drop off
• All local taxes

What’s not included

• Meal during the lunch break
• Tips and gratuities
• Personal expenses

Additional information

This tour does not require a high amount of walking or wheeling, and it can also be completely tailor-made based on each person preferences. The itinerary also avoids steps and it follows a mostly flat path along the Tour.
Meeting point: Hotel or Cruise Pick-up or Other
Starting time: Flexible
Duration: 8 Hours
We recommend allowing time for a Lunch break to sample typical local cuisine and wine at one of our suggested Restaurants, equipped with an adapted toilet
Optional door-to-door accessible Cruise Port transportation can be arranged (Extra cost)
Cancellation Policy:
No penalty if cancelling at least 14 day(s) in advance of the scheduled departure
50 percent fee if you cancel between 7 and 14 day(s) in advance of the scheduled departure
100 percent fee if you cancel within 7 day(s) of the scheduled departure