The Monastery of St. Peter of Galligans is an outstanding Benedictine monument built in the 11th century and an impressive testimony to Catalan Romanesque art. It is also one of the architectural jewels of the region.
It is located on the outskirts of the old town of Girona, near the Galligans River. Its name comes from the old Catalan term "galligants", which refers to the birds that inhabited the area in the past. It was founded by Benedictine monks, who sought to establish a place of prayer, study and monastic life in the region.
Among its highlights is its magnificent Romanesque church, which is one of the best examples of this architectural style in Catalonia. It has a Latin cross plan, a main nave and two side naves. Its main façade is adorned with semicircular arches and sculpted decorations, while its interior features beautiful carved capitals and a Baroque-style main altar.
The building also houses an exceptionally well-preserved Romanesque cloister. It is a true masterpiece of Catalan Romanesque architecture and has semicircular arches supported by columns sculpted with plant and animal motifs.
Since 1857, it has been the headquarters of the Archaeology Museum of Catalonia, which exhibits a varied collection of archaeological artefacts ranging from Roman to medieval times. Visitors can explore different themed rooms, such as the Roman room, the medieval room and the Romanesque architecture room, where original elements of the monastery are displayed.
The Monastery of St. Peter of Galligans is a place of great historical and cultural importance in Girona. Its exceptional Romanesque architecture, impressive cloister and function as a museum make this place a must-see destination for lovers of art and history.
What to see in Girona