Welcome to a fascinating journey through the centuries to discover the Charterhouse of Santa Maria de Escaladei. Founded in the 12th century by monks of the Chartreux de Provence order, it was the first chartreuse built on the Iberian Peninsula. Carefully nestled at the foot of the Montsant mountain range, this unique site takes its name from the divine ladder imagined by a dreamy shepherd, a ladder leaning against the top of a pine tree through which the angels climbed and descended, hence the name Escaladei. the ladder of God.
A story of prosperity and spirituality
The Chartreuse enjoyed centuries of prosperity, reaching its peak in 1835. For 700 years, the monks shaped the region, populating the land, building mills and developing the cultivation of vines. The Prior, who gave his name to the Priorat, had the right of justice and reigned supreme over the villages of the center of the current comarca, an area that roughly corresponds to the current wine appellation DOC Priorat.
Forced departure and silent ruins
However, in 1835, with the Mendizabal suppression law, the monks were expropriated from their properties, forcing them to leave and abandon their cells, cloister, church and inn. In less than two years, the majestic Chartreuse was transformed into a cluster of ruins, looted by peasants exasperated by centuries of vassalage, tithes and submission.
Journey through the Ruins
Today, these ruins offer an immersive experience through a guided tour. Discover the remains of the three cloisters, the church, the refectory and even a cell rebuilt in every detail.
A poignant testimony of history
The Charterhouse of Santa Maria de Escaladei remains a must for anyone wishing to return to the origins of Priorat, a poignant testimony to the history and spirituality that have shaped this unique region.
