The Bellmunt sanctuary, Barcelona’s best kept secret

Perched at more than 1,200 metres of altitude, the Bellmunt sanctuary proves that mountains still have something to offer to nonconformist tourists who need more than visiting the mandatory stops of every list. A reward awaits those who dare to go further. In this case, they will get to enjoy the marvellous views of Cataluña, where there are as many mountain landscapes as one can imagine.

A look at the history of the Bellmunt sanctuary

The Bellmunt sanctuary is the old church of the antique Sa Raganyada castle, whose surroundings were constantly guarded in the 11th century due to the war. The Count of Besalú granted his fortress-castle to his son. The document that attests to this event is the first document regarding the existence of this building. And as if that wasn’t enough, its remains can still be found facing the temple.

The castle was abandoned when it no longer served as a strategic location, but the temple was conserved. Nowadays, it is known that some hermits lived there in the late 14th century, and masses were held here every Sunday by the end of the 16th century. The original chapel was expanded in 1557, adding a home for the hermits and a shelter.

The following centuries were not kind to the Bellmunt sanctuary. During the 19th century and the Spanish Civil War, it was invaded on many occasions, already damaged by the inclement weather. As you know, this place rests at more than 1,200 metres of altitude. In the year 1982, the Barcelona Provincial Council began the transformation of the temple into its current shape.

Keys to the Bellmunt sanctuary

The Bellmunt sanctuary settled on the highest point of the Bellmunt mountain range, near Sant Pere de Torelló in Barcelona. A Latin-cross, aisleless Romanesque church conforms the sanctuary. It houses a Gothic Mother of God of barely 22 centimetres of height. She is also known as Virgen de las Aladas (“Virgin of the Winged”) due to the flying ant swarms that migrate to the sanctuary every August.

Built directly on the stone, the Bellmunt sanctuary has adapted to the shape of the mountains and the cliffs where it lies. Thanks to its location, the landscapes this place offers will take your breath away. We would like to highlight two viewpoints. One of them is right by the church, and you will find the other on the top of the opposite hill. You can even see the sacred Montserrat mountain on the best days.

You can get here by car, on a winding road, or by taking a hiking route from Sant Pere de Torelló or Vidrà, which takes us to our next point.

Interesting places near the Bellmunt sanctuary

These hiking routes that lead to the sanctuary are a great way to explore an area filled with forests. For instance, you will see La Grevolosa, an astonishing natural space that houses beeches. Some of them are more than 200 years old and over 30 metres high. If you want to go even further, you can visit the park of volcanoes of La Garrotxa, which is an hour away by car. There are many other natural paradises, such as the Salt de Mir, a 35-metre high waterfall whose colours shine all year.

If you want to enjoy rural tourism, the lovely village of Vidrá is just 15 minutes away, and it’s worth a visit. The weather seems to work differently in this space surrounded by mountains. This valley is said to be the rainiest place in Cataluña, which explains the typical bright green of the area.

Why should you visit the Bellmunt sanctuary?

The Bellmunt sanctuary is still hidden among a natural scene of absolute beauty. History and nature become one in its surroundings, creating a unique experience for the visitor. This place could quickly gain notoriety among tourists, so you better hurry up and enjoy a relaxing excursion while it lasts.

You can also read this article in Spanish and French.