Sant Pere de Besalú, Romanesque monastery in Besalú, Spain

Sant Pere de Besalú is a monastery with its church located in the medieval town of Besalú in Catalonia. The interior contains three naves separated by square pillars, with a central sanctuary area and smaller lateral chapels at the eastern end.

The monastery was founded in 977 and gained papal support early on, which strengthened its regional importance. It became known for housing relics of early Christian martyrs that drew pilgrims from across the region.

The name references Saint Peter, one of Christianity's most significant apostles, reflecting the monastery's spiritual foundations. The building showcases how Romanesque design and later baroque additions coexist within its walls, telling the story of changing artistic preferences over centuries.

The church is the only surviving part of the monastery and serves as the parish church of Besalú. The Circusland museum, which replaced the Miniatures Museum in the early 2020s, is next to it on the same square, not inside the church. The building is a Cultural Asset of National Interest and can be visited during parish opening hours.

The main facade features a carved window displaying lion faces, a snake, and a monkey among geometric patterns. This unusual mix of animal imagery reflects medieval fascination with exotic creatures from distant lands.