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Temples

Sant Pere de Casserres

4.5 · 1,940 reviews
A quiet place for contemplation
Sant Pere de Casserres, Carretera, BV-5213, 08510 Les Masies de Roda, Barcelona, Spain
Interesting facts
1

The monastery's location was chosen specifically to follow the strict Benedictine rule of seclusion.

2

It is the only Benedictine abbey ever established in the entire Osona county.

3

The Ter River meander created a natural moat, effectively turning the site into an island-like peninsula.

4

Archaeological digs found traces of an Iberian village on the same plateau, dating back to before the Christian era.

5

The cloister is notable for being unusually small compared to the scale of the church, reflecting the austere nature of the community.

6

The Viscounts of Osona buried their family members in the monastery, making it a dynastic pantheon.

7

The building was abandoned in the 18th century and fell into ruin before being reclaimed for heritage preservation in the 20th century.

Overview

Sant Pere de Casserres is the only Benedictine monastery in the Osona region, uniquely positioned on a narrow peninsula formed by a sharp meander of the Ter River. Founded in the 11th century under the patronage of the Viscounts of Osona, the monastery is a prime example of Catalan Romanesque architecture. The complex includes a three-aisled church, a two-story cloister, and residential buildings that have undergone significant restoration to reveal their medieval origins. Its isolation is due to the construction of the Sau Reservoir, which transformed the surrounding landscape into a peninsula. Excavations have revealed a prehistoric Iberian settlement predating the monastery. The site serves as a museum highlighting monastic life and the historical influence of the Benedictine order in the region. Visitors reach the main entrance via a dirt track leading through local farmland. The surrounding landscape is characterized by steep cliffs overlooking the river valley.

Photo spot

The viewpoint located on the path leading up to the monastery, capturing the building perched above the Ter river bend.

Insider tips

Wear sturdy walking shoes as the approach involves uneven paths and natural terrain.

Bring your own water and snacks, as there are limited facilities on the immediate site.

Check the weather before heading out, as the site is exposed and can be quite windy on the peninsula.

What to avoid

Attempting to drive directly to the monastery door; visitors must park at the designated lot and walk the final access path.

Good to know

Closed on Mondays except for public holidays.

Etiquette

Maintain a quiet tone suitable for a historical monastic site; avoid touching fragile stone surfaces.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1.5 hours
Best time to visit
Mid-morning in spring or autumn to avoid the intense midday sun and enjoy the river valley fog clearing.
Address
Sant Pere de Casserres, Carretera, BV-5213, 08510 Les Masies de Roda, Barcelona, Spain
42.002, 2.341
Get directions
Details
Architectural styleCatalan Romanesque
Key featureTwo-story cloister

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1.5 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Mid-morning in spring or autumn to avoid the intense midday sun and enjoy the river valley fog clearing..

The viewpoint located on the path leading up to the monastery, capturing the building perched above the Ter river bend.

Close by you'll find Poblat ibèric de l'Esquerda, Espai Natural de les Guilleries-Savassona, Morro de l'Abella.