The Monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes is one of the most unique Romanesque monastic complexes in Catalonia and a symbol of the medieval heritage of the Costa Brava. Perched atop the Rodes mountains in the municipality of El Port de la Selva, its privileged location offers visitors stunning views of the Cap de Creus Natural Park and the deep blue of the Mediterranean Sea.Mediterráneo.
Sant Pere de Rodes is the most remarkable example of Catalan native Romanesque architecture
Sant Pere de Rodes Monastery: a site with centuries of history
The origins of Sant Pere de Rodes date back to the Early Middle Ages. For centuries, it was a major spiritual centre that attracted pilgrims from across Europe. According to tradition, relics of Saint Peter were once kept here, which contributed to its fame as a place of devotion.
Throughout the Middle Ages, it enjoyed times of great prosperity, receiving donations and becoming a religious and cultural landmark. However, from the 17th century onward, it fell into decline, suffering looting, abandonment and pillaging. The monastery was ultimately abandoned in the 18th century, leaving behind monumental architecture that still impresses today with its grandeur and setting.
A restored heritage
Today, Sant Pere de Rodes Monastery is listed as a Cultural Asset of National Interest and forms part of the network of monuments managed by the Catalan Agency for Cultural Heritage. Thanks to ongoing restorations, the complex has been recovered as a testament to Catalan Romanesque architecture and a top-tier cultural attraction.
What to see during your visit
Visitors can explore the church, cloister, bell tower and other areas that retain the traces of its medieval splendour. The monastery is beautifully integrated into its natural surroundings, with walking paths offering breathtaking views over the Alt Empordà coast and the Cap de Creus.
How to get to Sant Pere de Rodes Monastery
- By car: Access is clearly signposted from El Port de la Selva and Vilajuïga.
- On foot or by bike: There are hiking and cycling routes through the Rodes mountains, ideal for nature and history lovers. Many trails connect the monastery with other points of interest, such as the Castle of Sant Salvador de Verdera, which stands on the same mountain.
A perfect plan for the senses
Visiting Sant Pere de Rodes is more than just seeing a monument: it’s experiencing centuries of history within stone walls, walking through Mediterranean scrubland and enjoying one of the best viewpoints on the entire Costa Brava.
