Monestir de Poblet, Spain

Poblet is one of the largest monasteries in Spain. It was founded in 1151. The monastery is located on the territory of the municipality of Vimbodi i Poblet. This majestic monastery has been used as a Royal Pantheon since its foundation. Many Royal tombs are located on its territory. The tombs are distinguished by their design. The best Catalan sculptors worked on their creations. The Poblet Monastery was one of the richest in the country from its foundation until the 1830s. Hundreds of works of art decorated it. Priceless religious relics were kept in the monastery.

Everything changed with the beginning of the First Civil War. The monastery was completely looted during this period. All the art decorations and antique furniture were stolen from it. Some buildings of the monastery were burned. The monastery was almost completely in ruins after the end of the war in the middle of the 19th century. It was fully restored only by 1930. The historic monastery is active today. 30 monks live in it permanently.

The monastery managed to preserve some of its old design elements despite its complex history. You can see the wonderful vaulted galleries in its courtyard. They were created in the 12th century. Some elements of the Royal tombs also remained intact. You can see the wonderful 12th-century church in the central part of the architectural complex. Fascinating excursions are conducted through the vast territory of the monastery. You can visit its most hidden corners during the tour. You need to spend at least three hours exploring all the local attractions. Next - Donana National Park