Santa María de Vilabertrán

Santa María de Vilabertrán is a Romanesque monastery in the Girona region with a three-nave basilica and a prominent Lombard bell tower. The complex centers around a trapezoidal cloister with circular apses, displaying the architectural principles typical of its era.

Augustinian canons founded the monastery in 1069, with basilica construction beginning in 1080. The church was consecrated roughly 20 years later, establishing it as an important religious center in the region.

The monastery houses a significant Gothic processional cross from the 14th century, one of the largest examples of Gothic goldsmithery in Catalonia. This ornate piece reflects the religious splendor of its era and remains on display for visitors.

The monastery is open Tuesday through Sunday, with hours varying between summer and winter seasons. Guided tours are available to help visitors understand the history and architecture of the site.

The monastery contains a preserved tombstone from 1196 believed to hold remains of a medieval monarch. This rare connection between royal burial and a religious community makes it an unusual historical presence in the cloister.