Manresa: Gothic cathedral and Ignatian heritage

The Basilica of Santa Maria, known as La Seu, is one of Catalonia's most impressive Gothic buildings. Construction began in 1328 and took over 150 years, resulting in a harmonious masterpiece of Catalan Gothic architecture.

Key features include:

• The nave: soaring vaults reaching 30 metres, creating an awe-inspiring sense of space
• The apse: elegant polygonal design with tall stained-glass windows
• The bell tower: separate from the main building, offering panoramic views (climb the tower for 3 EUR)
• The cloister: peaceful Gothic cloister with a garden

The cathedral is free to enter. Highlights inside include the Gothic altarpiece, baroque chapels and the museum with sacred art. Allow 45-60 minutes for a thorough visit.

The Pont Vell (Old Bridge) is a spectacular medieval bridge spanning the Cardener river, dating from the 12th century. With its high arch and stone construction, it's one of the most photogenic spots in Manresa.

The bridge is part of the medieval walls and defensive system. Walk across for views up and down the river, or descend to the riverbank to photograph the bridge from below. The area around the bridge is lovely for a stroll, with riverside paths and parks.

Manresa's most important spiritual site is the Cave of Sant Ignasi, where Saint Ignatius of Loyola (founder of the Jesuits) spent 10 months in prayer and meditation in 1522-1523. During this time he wrote the foundations of the Spiritual Exercises, the core text of Jesuit spirituality.

The site includes:

• The cave: preserved inside a baroque sanctuary, a simple rocky grotto where Ignatius prayed
• The basilica: ornate baroque church built around the cave
• Ignatian Way interpretation centre: explains the pilgrimage route from Loyola to Manresa
• Gardens and viewpoints: pleasant grounds overlooking the Cardener valley

Entry is free, with guided tours available for 5 EUR. The complex is a 15-minute walk uphill from the cathedral, or drive and park at the site.

Manresa has a rich Modernist heritage from the early 20th century. Key buildings include:

• Casino de Manresa: designed by Ignasi Oms, with a stunning concert hall
• Casa Torrents: floral facades and wrought-iron balconies
• Caixa building: modernist bank building, now cultural centre

Don't miss the Mural de Manresa, a massive 50-metre-long historical painting by Francesc Cuixart on the wall of the Sant Ignasi college, depicting the city's history from medieval times to the 20th century.

Morning: Drive from Montclar to Manresa (1 hour via C-26 and C-16). Arrive around 10am and start at La Seu cathedral. Explore the interior and consider climbing the bell tower for views.

Late morning: Walk to the Pont Vell and the medieval quarter, browsing shops and cafés on Carrer de Sant Miquel.

Lunch: Manresa has excellent restaurants. Try Bages cuisine: chickpea stew, roast meats, mushrooms, coca de recapte. Set menus range from 15-22 EUR. For something special, Manresa has two Michelin-starred restaurants (but book weeks ahead).

Afternoon: Visit the Cave of Sant Ignasi and walk the gardens. If interested in modernism, take a self-guided tour of the modernist buildings (map from tourist office).