The Abbey of Montserrat has surprised the world of cinema by offering acclaimed director Steven Spielberg the opportunity to make the film of the Catalan Indiana Jones.
On a recent visit to the monastery, accompanied by his wife Kate Capshaw and former President Barack Obama with his wife Michelle Obama, Spielberg received the proposal from the abbey’s director of communications, Òscar Bardají.
The idea is to tell the life story of Father Bonaventura Ubach (1879-1960), an orientalist monk considered the Indiana Jones of the monastery.
Father Ubach was the creator of the Biblical Museum of Montserrat and was convinced that an understanding of the Bible required an appreciation of its historical roots.
Following in the footsteps of the Old Testament, he made a journey similar to that of the Exodus, from Egypt to the Promised Land, passing through Sinai.
He also followed in the footsteps of St. Paul, as recounted in the New Testament. He visited places such as Turkey, Syria, Greece and Crete, acquiring numerous cultural assets in the process.
Father Ubach: the Catalan Indiana Jones
The figure of Father Ubach is considered as fascinating as that of the fictional archaeologist Indiana Jones. He also ventured in search of treasures and historical relics.
Bardají, referring to Father Ubach, pointed out: “Our Father Ubach is a bit of an Indiana Jones, bringing archaeological relics such as sarcophagi and other religious samples”.
During Spielberg’s visit, the abbey’s prior, Bernat Juliol, had the opportunity to speak with the renowned director. He even showed interest and took note of the proposal.
Although he did not make a definitive statement, the possibility of bringing Father Ubach’s life to the cinema was considered very beneficial for both Montserrat and Catalonia.
The proposal of the Abbey of Montserrat to Spielberg not only seeks to enrich the cinematographic history, but also to promote the cultural and patrimonial richness of Catalonia.
The Abbey
The Abbey of Montserrat has been for centuries a center of spirituality and knowledge in Catalonia.
Located on a mountain of breathtaking natural beauty, it has been a pilgrimage destination for people from all over the world.
In addition to its religious importance, the monastery houses a valuable treasure of art and culture, including the Biblical Museum, created by Father Ubach.
The Biblical Museum of Montserrat is internationally recognized for its collection of manuscripts, books and art related to the Bible.
Father Ubach’s vision of understanding the roots of the Christian faith through history and archaeology has left a lasting legacy at the abbey. They have contributed to the enrichment of the cultural heritage of Catalonia.
The natural beauty, architecture and rich history of the monastery of Montserrat would provide a stunning and authentic backdrop for the film.
