It is not only possible to visit this monastery, but you can also live with the monks as a guest.
The monastery of Santa Maria de Poblet or known as the Royal abbey of Santa Maria de Poblet. Founded in 1151 and is still in use as a monastery. The monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is open for people that wish to visit and tour the monastery. Many historic kings and queens are buried at the monastery including Alfonso II, James I, Alfonso V and John I. The monastery has around 30 monks residing many less than the 300 monks during the better periods in history.
The monastery building is steeped in history since its construction in 1129. The actual building that stands today dates back to the 14th century. Rare art works and historic items are on display in the monasteries very own museum. Visitors are free to explore the monastery and view the monks doing their daily tasks.a
It is also possible (men only) to stay as a guest at the monastery and join the monks in their daily activities. This unique option would involve contacting the monastery to arrange beforehand. The monastery would accept guests that have spiritual and religious interests and would remain respectful to the environment of the monastery.
How To Get To The Monastery Of Santa Maria De Poblet
It is best to arrive by car or train, when travelling from Barcelona.
To get to the Monastery of Santa Maria de Poblet from Barcelona, it is best to travel by car. Leave the city of Barcelona and join the AP-7 motorway. Travel along the AP- towards Tarragona, about 20 minutes before Tarragona, look out for the AP-2 motorway. Exit the AP-7 and continue along the AP-2 in direction of Lleida. Exit AP-2 at Montblanc and continue on the N-240 until the town of L’Espluga de Francoli. Join the T-700 road until the village of Poblet.
It is also possible to catch a train from Estacion de França in Barcelona to L’Espluga De Francoli. You can then take a taxi to the monastery in Poblet which is just a few kilometers ways.
The monastery is open to visitors every day 10:00 – 12:30 and 15:00 to 18:00. These hours will be extended in summer, it is always best to check before travelling. The monastery is closed on Christmas and New Year’s Day. Since it is a working monastery, it is always best to check opening times before planning to travel there.
