Monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes

The Monestir de Sant Pere de Rodes is undoubtedly the most important monastery in the Comtat d'Empúries. Since its construction in 878 it was under the protection of the county, which gave it lands and privileges. The proximity of the town of Santa Creu de Rodes, dedicated to commerce and crafts and which became a supply center for the monastery, contributed to its importance, along with pilgrimage.

The proximity of the Castell de Sant Salvador de Verdera, which had it under its protection, also contributed to its splendor. In fact, the castle was donated to the monastery by the counts of Empúries, and due to its strategic location on the Cap de Creus, they tried to recover it, causing continuous confrontations with the abbots of the monastery.

The most important construction in the complex is the monastery church, an exceptional piece of Catalan Romanesque. It was built in the 10th and 11th centuries to welcome pilgrims, and stands out for its great height, thanks to its system of pillars and double columns.

Already in the 12th and 13th centuries it became one of the centers of spiritual, political and economic power in the region. This fact was reflected in its ability to expand its rooms and in the works of great artistic value that it housed, such as the portal, by the master of Cabestany, of which only a few fragments remain today. At the end of the 18th century the monastery was abandoned and partially destroyed.

Always check the opening hours 😮.

The monastery looks more impressive from afar and from the outside than from the inside. But it is still worth a visit 🙂