Have you ever wanted to take a Halloween trip while learning some of Catalonia's spooky history? Then the Monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes in Girona is your destination! Read on to discover its horror story, history, and alleged paranormal activities. You may want to bring your garlic and crucifix as you explore the grounds and history of this hauntingly beautiful monastery.
Horror Story of Monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes (Girona)
The Monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes has a long and sordid history of dark and mysterious happenings. Local folklore tells of priests and monks disappearing through walls and vanishing without a trace.
The few visitors brave enough to venture inside tell stories of wails in the night and shadows that flit about the hallways. Statues that sometimes move and of rooms that have an off-putting energy.
One of the most spine-tingling tales is that of the “Screaming Monk”. He is said to wander through the grounds, wringing his hands and screaming out his misgivings. Collaborators and verifers agree that the screams of this monk can be heard as far away as a few kilometers away, most likely echoing through the mountain pass.
But the most eery of all the stories is that of St. Pere de Rodes himself. It is said that his ghost still roams the ground, pacing through the cloisters, and some even say that his old office has been heard rumbling with the sound of his voice.
Tales tell of those who who have gone in search of the ghost, curious or determined, who have been never seen or heard from again.
So heed this warning – it goes without saying, the Monastery can often keep the secrets it keeps hidden within its walls, and those who enter are likely to stay forever.
After the mysterious death, this place is declared haunted. History & Information of Monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes (Girona)
The Monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes is a Benedictine monastery in Catalonia, Spain. It is located in the heart of the mountain-range of El Cap de Creus and the village of El Port de la Selva in the comarca of Alt Empordà, in the northern Costa Brava.
First constructed in the 11th century, the monastery was restored in the 17th century. Its apse with projecting buttresses, capitols and shallow dome are typical elements of Catalan Gothic architecture. It has served as a Franciscan retreat since the 19th century, and is used as a cultural and educational center since the 20th century.
The building has two levels and its construction is attributed to Wilfred the Hairy, Count of Barcelona who founded the monastery in 877 as part of a programme of fortifying the Pyrenees in the northeast of his domain. The monastery was constructed on a rocky outcrop of the valley and its walls and substantial remains show that it was built as a defensive site as well as a religious one.
The monastery was steeped in the Benedictine tradition and many of its monks became abbots and influential figures in Catalonia and other parts of Europe. However, in 1835, it was secularized and the majority of its possessions and art works were confiscated by the Spanish Crown; the remaining monks were evicted.
Today, it is visited by tourists mainly interested in its history, architecture, or the spectacular surroundings. It is a popular destination for hikers as it is reachable by foot from El Port de la Selva along a well marked trail that passes through the Vall de Santa Creu and affords beautiful views of the sea.
The Monastery saw a resurgence of activity in the mid-20th century when a group of Catalan Franciscan Friars moved in and founded the Experiencia de Rodes retreat. Today, the Monastery houses a permanent exhibition of art and sculpture from the 19th and 20th centuries, a multimedia library, and a wide range of cultural and educational activities, such as seminars, discussions, painting workshops, and environmental activities.
The Monastery also serves as a venue for professional music recordings. It is home to the RGP Orchestra, which is a non-profit orchestra specialising in Baroque, Classical, and Romantic musical repertoires.
The building was declared a Patrimoni de la Humanitat (World Heritage Site) by UNESCO in 1998, and a national Monument in 1926.
The monastery is a major tourist destination, visitable by thousands of visitors each year. The retreat of Experiencia de Rodes requires monetary donations for the conservation, repair and restoration of the building.
Further reading
* Iconografía del Monasterio de Sant Pere de Rodes (https://www.press.uchicago.edu/ucp/books/book/distributed/I/bo14804101.html). Universitat de Girona.
* El Monestir de Sant Pere de Rodes (https://books.google.com/books?id=EuKUAAAAMAAJ). Quaderns de Medi Ambient.
* Barbara Contini, Mary W. Hilgartner. Monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes: An Outstanding Cultural and Social Visitor Center (https://www.routledge.com/Monastery-of-Sant-Pere-de-Rodes-I-Cultural-and-Social-Visitor-Center/Contini-Hilgartner/p/book/9781138833307). Routledge.
This place tops the list of one of the most mysterious places in the world. Paranomial Activity of Monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes (Girona)
The Monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes in Girona, Spain, is a Romanesque architectural complex situated at the top of a rocky cliff, and is a large and striking example of the architecture of the Middle Ages. It was founded in the 10th century and is attributed to the Benedictine Order of monks. Since then, it has been a deeply spiritual place, with monastic activities playing an important role in its daily activities.
The Monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes has a rich and diverse history related to its religious activity. From the time of its foundation to this day, the monastery has been an important focus of Latin, Clerical, and Monastic teaching for many generations of Christians. From the beginning, it has been a shrine of Christian devotion and a testament to the power of faith. Its pilgrims have come from near and far to enjoy its presence and to venerate its spiritual and cultural importance.
Throughout its history, the Monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes has been a dynamic centre of religious and scholarly activity, where debates and discussions occurred and important works of religious literature were produced. Monks from here were pioneers in developing certain theological and spiritual make-up of Christian thought, and in keeping its doctrinal tradition alive.
Today, the Monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes offers a unique and sought-after opportunity to experience spiritual exercise and enrichment in a lush and secluded atmosphere. Activities include retreats, seminaries, and lectures, as well as cultural, artistic and musical events, amongst other initiatives.
Experience of people & Reviews of Monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes (Girona)
Many people have enjoyed visiting the Monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes, which is located in a dramatic setting in the mountains of northern Spain near the coastal town of Girona. Visitors have praised the stunning views, and the peaceful atmosphere that fills the site. Several of the key attractions are the museum, the gardens, and the frescoed cloister. Visitors have said that the guided tour of the museum is well worth the time and effort as it provides an interesting insight into the site’s history and the many different aspects of the monastery. The gardens have been described as exceptionally beautiful and a great way to spend a few hours relaxing and taking in the sights. The frescoed cloister is one of the best-preserved parts of the complex, and it’s really a must-see for all visitors. In general, people rate their experience at the Monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes very highly, noting the atmosphere, history, and picturesque surroundings while recommending it as a great day trip from Girona.
You can visit this haunted place during the daytime. FAQ'S of Monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes (Girona)
Q. What is the Monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes?
A. The Monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes is a Benedictine monastery that was established in the ninth century in the mountainous region of Girona, Spain. It is one of the region's most important landmarks and a key part of its cultural heritage.
Q. How long has the Monastery been open?
A. The Monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes has been open since the 9th century and has been used as a religious center ever since.
Q. Does the Monastery offer guided tours?
A. Yes, the Monastery offers guided tours of its various historical and spiritual sites.
Q. What is the best time of year to visit the Monastery?
A. The Monastery is open year round, however, the most popular time to visit the Monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes is in the summer months between April and September.
Q. Is there an entrance fee?
A. Yes, there is an entrance fee for visiting the Monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes. The current entrance fee is €4.50 for adults and €3.30 for children.