I missed the opportunity to go to Manresa during my first visit to Barcelona in 2023. When I shared with my travel agent that I wanted to go to Manresa, he was puzzled as to what was so intriguing in Manresa. Interestingly, the driver hired for this adventure wondered the same thing.

Many years ago, I was introduced to Saint Ignatius of Loyola and the Spiritual Exercises. In reviewing the history of Saint Ignatius, I learned that he traveled to Montserrat (also near Barcelona) following a conversion experience that took place after being wounded while serving in the Spanish Army. In Montserrat, Saint Ignatius surrendered his sword as a soldier and vowed to follow Jesus. He traveled to Manresa where he spent eleven months in a cave. During that time, he prayed and did penance while writing the Spiritual Exercises.

The Cova Sant Ignasi is a beautiful church in Manresa constructed around the cave where Saint Ignatius spent those eleven months. The cave is now the chapel within the church building.

I love the Spiritual Exercises and the history of Saint Ignatius of Loyola. I knew I had to see this place and so my travel agent made the necessary arrangements.

From the moment I arrived, I knew I was in a special place. The beauty is hard to describe in words. Saint Ignatius is the founder of the Jesuits. Displayed in the museum attached to the church were memorials of many Jesuits who were instrumental in successful missionary adventures throughout the world.

As I walked toward the chapel, I passed by what I thought were the Stations of the Cross. However, after a closer look, I realized that the scenes on the medallions were different. A sign near the display noted the following description for each medallion:

1. Ignatius writing the Spiritual Exercises in the Cave

2. Ignatius sick in the Amigant’s small hospital.

3. Ignatius’ eight days rapture in Saint Lucia’s hospital.

4. Ignatius’ Trinity experience, in Saint Dominic.

5. Ignatius’ experience of the Eucharist, in Saint Dominic.

6. Ignatius’ prayer in Viladordis.

7. Ignatius praying in Barcelona.

8. Ignatius’ vision at La Storta, on the way to Rome.

9. The hen’s well.

Some of these events in Saint Ignatius’ life are new to me. I will be researching all of this when I return from this trip. Be sure to watch the video below to see the unique structure of this cave/chapel.

While planning this adventure, I also learned of the Basilica of Saint Mary de la Seu of Manresa. Construction for this basilica began in 1322 with its first stone placed in 1328. According to its history, the construction of the basilica dragged on into the 15th century with the bell tower constructed in 1592. The beauty of this basilica can also be seen in the video below.

The name “Manresa” remains synonymous with Ignatian spirituality and truly represents a special place of prayer and reflection. I enjoyed visiting Manresa and highly recommend a visit for anyone traveling to the area.

Because of poor weather conditions, I spent an extra day in Barcelona. My hotel was located a short walk to the Barcelona Cathedral. This beautiful cathedral is also displayed in the video below along with fun activities in the square directly in front of the cathedral.

As many of you know, my latest book is now available on Amazon. Click here to learn more about it and to order your copy today.

I also started writing my next book and doing a deep dive into the history of Saint Ignatius of Loyola and the Jesuits. Stay tuned for updates!

My visit to Manresa and Barcelona was only the beginning of this adventure. My next stop was Porto, Portugal. The blog and video for this next adventure will be posted soon.

Enjoy the video below of Manresa and Barcelona.

Don’t forget to order your copy of my latest book!

Happy Reading everyone and God Bless all…