Visit Monestir de Poblet
The Monestir de Poblet is one of the key religious and historical sites in Spain and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Poblet is just 8km from Montblanc and 47 km inland from Tarragona in the Catalonia region.
Visit the Monestir de Poblet
The Monestir de Poblet was once one of the most powerful monasteries in Spain. It is part of three sister monasteries known as the Cistercian triangle along with the Monastery of Santes Creus and the Monastery of Vallbona de les Monges.
Poblet Monastery was founded in 1151 as a Cistercian monastery. The kings of Aragon and Catalunia were buried here and sent great wealth to enhance it. This led to corruption and the stories surrounding Poblet are lewder than those of any other Cistercian monastery.
It was hated by the locals and burnt and damaged during a revolution in 1835. Restoration began a hundred years later in 1930 and monks moved back in in 1940.
In its glory days about 300 monks lived in the monastery and owned various farms run by lay brothers. There are now around 30 Cistercian monks who live in the monastery.
Much has now being restored and the buildings are truly beautiful. Inside the fortified walls are the Abbey Church with the Royal Tombs, various cloisters, a Chapterhouse, a dormitory (part of which is still used by monks) and a library.
The dining hall is particularly lovely with large arched windows, a beautifully polished wooden floor and wooden pews and tables all down the edges.
As always with churches the cloister is a highlight of the Monastery. The cloister at Poblet Monastery has huge arched openings looking out onto an immaculately kept grassy space.
The monastery as well as being in itself a showcase of 12th, 13th and 14th century Cistercian style, houses a number of masterpieces including a huge alabaster reredos by Damia Forment in 1527.
Because the monastery sits at the foot of the Prades Mountains the beautiful buildings also have an attractive setting adding to the pleasure of a visit.
The Monestir de Poblet is amongst the largest and most intact Cistercian monasteries in the world and was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991.
If you wish to visit the sister monasteries of the Cistercian triangle you can buy a combined ticket which is cheaper.
Places to visit near to the Monestir de Poblet
The impressive walled town of Montblanc is just 9km away and worth a visit for its medieval centre and gothic buildings. It is also the place where Saint George slaid the dragon!
Tarragona's Roman ruins are extensive and are another UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Younger visitors won't want to miss a visit to PortAventura which is one of Europe's biggest theme parks.
Another monastery to visit is the attractive Monestir de Montserrat close to Barcelona. Try to organise your visit when its famous choir is singing.
You can find more local travel ideas in the Tarragona guide and the Catalonia guide.
Map of Monestir de Poblet and places to visit
Monestir de Poblet places to visit
Montblanc
Montblanc is a beautiful, walled town with a number of Romanesque and Gothic monuments to see.
Montblanc guide
Tarragona
Tarragona's roman ruins are one of the World Heritage Sites in Catalonia. It also has a medieval old town.
Tarragona guide
PortAventura
PortAventura is one of Europe's biggest theme parks. It is a great family attraction.
PortAventura guide
Salou
Salou is the main resort on the Costa Dorado coast. It is situated next to the Port Aventura theme park.
Salou guide
Lleida
Lleida has a large ruined fort, La Suda, and an outstanding cathedral, the Seu Vell
Lleida guide
Sitges
Sitges is a highlight of the coastal towns south of Barcelona. It has some excellent Modernist architecture.
Sitges guide...or see all our recommended places to visit in Catalonia