The town of Amer is situated on the border of the Comarcas of La Selva and La Garrotxa. It is the birthplace of Carles Puigdemont, leader of the pro-Catalan Independence Party, Junts. The family bakery is still there and is run by his sister and other family members.
The Benedictine Monastery of Santa María was built in the 10th century and dominated the area until 1835. It was damaged by earthquakes in the 15th century and more latterly by war. The main square is porticoed and there are modern murals requesting that the Catalan exiles be allowed to return home. On the walls by the church and monastery there are plaques which describe the history of the town. It is a very pleasant place for a stroll and to buy some cakes or pastries.
St Brigid’s chapel or Ermita is situated on a cliff top at the crest of a hill, 472 metres above sea level and was built in the 11th century. Romanesque in style, the frontage was modernised in the 17th century and the whole building was restored in 1990. There is a drinking fountain by the side dedicated to St Bernard. There is a festival held there on the first Sunday in February.
Note: There are two routes to the chapel. One by a broad, level unmade road and another via a path through the trees, which is rather more challenging and may benefit from carrying walking poles. Either way up to the chapel involves a steady climb, steep in parts, of around 4 kilometres. The rewards are the magnificent views over the entire region which are especially spectacular from the chapel itself.
Please note there are no restaurant or café facilities at the Ermita and so you will need to bring your own refreshments for a break before the descent back to Amer
Cancellation: If the event has to be cancelled for any reason you will receive an email & there will be a cancellation notice on the U3A website by 8 am on the morning of the event.
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