Royal Monastery of Santa Maria de Vallbona de les Monges

Grup Transversal has completed its museographic assignment for the Gothic rooms of the Royal Monastery of Santa Maria de Vallbona, located in the county of Urgell. The aim of the project is to provide a first-hand experience of how the monastery’s community lived, encapsulating its more than eight centuries of history and making the monastery a key attraction among Cistercian heritage sites.

Transversal has completely transformed the space: a two-part Gothic hall located on the east side of the cloister. In one half of the hall, two scriptorium furniture items have been placed, together with models and audiovisual presentations projected onto stone that evocatively immerse visitors in the different periods of the monastery’s history. The pharmacy space has also been recreated, where an audiovisual presentation allows visitors to relive the preparation of medicines carried out by the monastery’s nuns, who were apothecaries. Thanks to a combination of furniture items, original pieces and props, the space takes on an authentic appearance and allows visitors to submerge themselves in this period of the monastery’s history.

Interactivity in a museum environment enhances people's commitment, understanding and memory of exhibition content. Using highly evocative lighting and advanced interactive displays, Transversal transports visitors with a memorable experience and immersive settings that facilitate cognitive development and serve the monastery’s instructional purpose.