Various visitor services have been erected to wish everyone a warm welcome, and so that those who wish may take home a nice souvenir of their stay in Montserrat. The funds raised this way are destined to the upkeep of Montserrat, and to collaborate with the numerous community programs the monastery encourages every year.
Montserrat’s shops have their origin in the old monastery bakery, and many of the products you find here come from this tradition. A clear example of this is the coques and digestive liquors, a good source of strength for hikers and pilgrims who would reach the monastery after a long trip.
On the other hand, devotion towards the Virgin Mary has led, for quite a long time, to the issue of cards and engravings (the monastery of Montserrat has owned a printing press since 1499). Shortly afterwards, visitors were able topurchase medals and rosaries, as a proof of their devotion towards the Holy Image.