The largest monastery in the “Cistercian triangle”, the Monastery of Santa Maria de Poblet is a haven of tranquillity and a resting place of kings. At sunset, it almost seems to glow in heavenly light.
t The Monestir de Poblet, surrounded by golden vines
Experience Catalonia
t The many buildings that make up the Monestir de Poblet
The Monestir de Poblet was the first and most important of three Cistercian monasteries that helped to consolidate power in Catalonia after it had been recaptured from the Moors by Ramon Berenguer IV. Despite this former importance, Poblet was abandoned and fell into disrepair as a result of the Ecclesiastical Confiscations Act of 1835. Restoration, now largely complete, began in 1930 and monks returned in 1940.
The Cistercian Triangle
Built in the 12th century, the monasteries of Poblet, Vallbona de les Monges and Santes Creus are captivating examples of Gothic architecture, and each has served as the final resting place of Catalan royalty at one point or another. A 100-km (60-mile) drive will take you around all three. No longer used by a religious order, Santes Creus offers the opportunity to explore the private quarters of a Cistercian monastery.
EXPERIENCE Catalonia
Timeline |
1150Santes Creus and Poblet monasteries are founded. |
1156Monastery at Vallbona de les Monges founded. |
1196Alfonso II is the first king to be buried here. |
1336–87Reign of Pere the Ceremonious, who designates Poblet a royal pantheon. |
1479Juan II, last king of Aragón, buried here. |
1835Disentailment of monasteries. Monestir de Poblet ravaged. |
1940Monks return. |
1952Tombs reconstructed. Royal remains returned. |