Monasterio de Santa Catalina

Location:
Santa Catalina 301
Arequipa, Peru

Historical Building

V!VA User‘s Description

Like a city within a city, the astounding Monasterio de Santa Catalina is probably one of the best architectural sites in Arequipa. With architecture reminiscent of Andalusia Spain, the convent contains a hundred houses, 60 streets, a main square, church, and cemetery. The painting gallery houses more than 400 paintings from the Cusqueña School. Until 1970, when it was opened to the public, this place was shrouded in mystery. During the 17^th and 18^th centuries hundreds of nuns lived here, in addition to the daughters of wealthy families. The nuns who currently call this place home have the honor of living in modern quarters, complete with fully equipped kitchens. Some of the convent's highlights include the Orange Tree Cloister, with painted arches; Calle Toledo, an expansive boulevard that ends in a communal lavandería, where the nuns wash their clothes; and the rooms of Sor Ana, a 17th century nun who the Vatican has placed on the fast track to becoming a saint. Mass is held daily at 7:30 a.m.

Price Description: Price is $7.50. Guides work for a tip.

Open Hours from:9 a.m.

Open Hours to:4 p.m.

Days Closed:Is open daily

Contact Information:
Phone: 51-54-229-798
URL: www.santacatalina.org.pe