Montserrat mountain receives more than 2.1 million tourists in 2012
The Catalan multi-peaked mountain, which displays unique rock rounded shapes, received 3.7% less visitors than last year, due to a drop of local tourists as a consequence of the economic crisis. However, there has been an increase in the number of visitors to the Natural Park surrounding Montserrat. The mountain is the Catalan spiritual centre, and apart from the Benedictine abbey, it is a place where visitors can go hiking and climbing.
Monistrol de Montserrat (ACN). - The Catalan multi-peaked mountain, which displays unique rock rounded shapes, received 2,193,142 tourists during 2012, a 3.7% drop on last year. The reason for this fall can be found in the decrease in the number of local tourists as a consequence of the current economic situation. On the other hand, there has been a rise in the visitors to the Natural Park surrounding the mountain.
The number of hikers who visited the mountain increased by 9.53% compared to 2011, and by almost 20% compared to 2010. Private vehicles are still the most used form of transport to reach Montserrat, followed by local trains and Aeri, a cable car.
The Mountain of Montserrat is a holy multi-peaked mountain located near Barcelona, distinguished by its non conventional topography. The mountain is a spot of peregrination due to the Benedictine abbey which contains a black virgin: the Virgin of Montserrat, who traditionally was found in the mountain by shepherds.
Apart from its religious background, Montserrat is a Natural Mediterranean Park, and a place where visitors can practise hiking and climbing.
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