In the 9C, Benedictine monks developed one of five existing hermitages on Mt Montserrat, establishing a community which by the 11C had become very important. The existing buildings do not reflect its rich history, apart from the 15C church with its Moreneta (Black Madonna). Venerated by pilgrims (especially at Easter) this statue was found by shepherds in the late 12C. The dark coloration is attributed to candle smoke, wood oxidation, or a chemical reaction in the varnish.