The Royal Abbey of Santa Maria de Poblet is a stunning example of Cistercian architecture, founded in the 12th century and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has served as a royal pantheon for the kings of the Crown of Aragon and is notable for its striking white alabaster tombs, adorned with sculptures of lions and dogs at the feet of kings and queens. The abbey's rich history is reflected in its diverse architectural styles, from Romanesque to Baroque, and it continues to be a place of monastic life and cultural significance.