The monastery church of Sant Joan de les Abadesses was consecrated in 1150, as can be seen from the characteristic Romanesque features. It is also one of the most beautiful and emblematic examples of the monumental 12th-century architecture of Catalonia.

The museum opened in 1975, and boasts a noteworthy collection of works ranging from the 8th to the 20th centuries, including sculptures, paintings, textiles, and precious metalwork. Many of the items displayed were designed for liturgical purposes, and are still used today for important religious ceremonies.