Family Adventure in Tarragona: History and Culture Unveiled

Whispers of History and Stone

Today was a journey back in time, a day filled with the solemn beauty of ancient stones and the charming echoes of a medieval past. Leaving the familiar comfort of Tarragona, we ventured inland, seeking the spiritual solace of a Cistercian monastery and the captivating embrace of a perfectly preserved medieval town. It was a day of contrasts, of quiet contemplation and lively exploration, a day that left us all feeling enriched and connected to the tapestry of Catalan history.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at La Xarxa, a local favorite known for its warm atmosphere and delicious Mediterranean cuisine. Fuelled up and ready for adventure, James, Eglė and I set off towards the Santa María de Poblet Monastery. The drive itself was a treat, winding through rolling hills dotted with vineyards, the landscape painted in the muted tones of late autumn. I couldn't help but wish I had remembered my raincoat, as the sky threatened a drizzle, but the excitement of the day ahead kept our spirits high.

As we approached Poblet, the imposing silhouette of the monastery emerged against the horizon. Founded in 1151, this Cistercian abbey is not only a UNESCO World Heritage site but also one of the most important monastic complexes in Europe. I was immediately struck by its sheer scale and the sense of history that permeated the air. We parked the car and stepped through the ancient gates, ready to explore.

The monastery is a marvel of Catalan Gothic architecture, a blend of austere strength and delicate artistry. We wandered through the vast courtyards, our footsteps echoing on the stone pavement. The silence was broken only by the gentle murmur of the wind and the distant chirping of birds. Inside the church, the soaring vaulted ceilings and stained-glass windows created an atmosphere of profound reverence. I lit a candle for my parents, thinking of our cozy home in Kėdainiai and how much they would have loved this place.

Eglė was particularly fascinated by the Royal Pantheon, the final resting place of the kings of Aragon. The alabaster statues lying atop the tombs were incredibly detailed, each monarch accompanied by lion sculptures at their feet, while the queens had dogs. James, ever the history enthusiast, recounted tales of the Crown of Aragon, its power, and its eventual decline. We learned that Peter IV of Aragon decreed that all Aragonese kings should be buried here. It's incredible to think that this monastery served as a royal pantheon since the time of James I of Aragon.

Poblet is an impressive architectural complex and can be counted among the most important monasteries in Europe, in fact it is the largest monastic habitat on the European continent.

Leaving the monastery, we drove to nearby Montblanc, a medieval town that has miraculously preserved its ancient walls and historic charm. Just nine kilometers from Poblet Monastery, Montblanc offered a delightful contrast to the solemn atmosphere of the abbey. As we approached, the imposing walls of Montblanc came into view, encircling the town like a protective embrace. Originally nearly 2km in length with thirty towers, more than half of the walls are still standing.

We parked outside the walls and entered through the Bover Tower, a defensive gate that served as a portal to another era. The narrow, winding streets were a delight to explore, lined with Gothic buildings dating back to the 13th and 14th centuries. Eglė was immediately captivated by the medieval atmosphere, imagining knights and princesses walking these very streets centuries ago. I made a mental note to look into the Medieval Week of Montblanc for a future visit; it sounds like an incredible experience.

We strolled along the Placa Major, the town's main square, soaking in the lively atmosphere. It was a Sunday, and the locals were out enjoying the crisp December air, chatting and laughing. James bought us some roasted chestnuts from a street vendor, their warm, smoky aroma filling the air. We visited the Gothic church of Santa Maria, admiring its ornate facade and the intricate details of its architecture. The church of Santa Maria Maggiore is like the icing on this beautiful cake that is the medieval town of Montblanc.

For lunch, we stopped at Restaurant La Tagliatella, where we enjoyed a delicious Italian meal. The restaurant was located in the Les Gavarres Shopping Centre, a welcome change of pace after a day of historical exploration. Eglė was thrilled to have her favorite pizza, while James and I shared a hearty pasta dish. It was the perfect way to refuel before continuing our adventure. It was a welcome change to have some Italian food, reminding us of Toronto's diverse cuisine.

After lunch, we decided to explore more of Montblanc's hidden gems. We visited the Romanesque Sant Miquel, and the Sant Marcel which contains the Museu Mares. We also saw the 13th-century Els Jueus building, which once served as Catalonia's parliament building. Outside the medieval walls, we found a lovely old stone bridge and enjoyed the views over the town from a small mound behind the Santa Maria church.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way back to Tarragona, tired but content. For dinner, we chose Tarakon, a restaurant known for its casual and home-style cooking. We enjoyed some tapas on their open-air terrace, savoring the last moments of our day trip. The food was simple but delicious, the perfect ending to a day of exploration.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore more of Tarragona itself, visiting the Torre de les Monges, the Antiga Audiència, and the Plaça de la Imperial Tàrraco. We might even do some shopping at the BOULEVARD SHOPPING OLD TOWN TARRAGONA. I'm looking forward to discovering more of this beautiful city, its Roman past, and its vibrant present. It will be great to see more of Tarragona, especially after learning so much about Catalan history today. Though I forgot my raincoat and portable phone charger on this trip, I'm grateful for the memories we're making as a family. I feel a deep sense of gratitude for these moments, a feeling of connection to my family, to history, and to the beauty of this corner of Spain.

As I reflect on today, I am reminded that travel is not just about seeing new places, but about experiencing new perspectives. It's about connecting with the past, embracing the present, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. And as we continue our journey through Tarragona, I am excited to see what other treasures await us around the corner.