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Located in the heart of Antigua, La Iglesia y Convento de las Capuchinas stands as a captivating destination that radiates tranquility and architectural splendor. This remarkable complex, one of Antigua’s most visited, invites visitors to immerse themselves in a serene and captivating experience within the city’s center. It also provides a unique insight into the political and religious concerns of the day during which this structure was erected, and its later fate.
“Without a doubt, one of the beautiful places to visit in Antigua Guatemala, full of architecture, ancient ruins, historical passages, arches, paintings, sculptures, a museum and much more. A place to enjoy alone or with the family, you cannot miss it.” -Miquella Garcia
“Don’t skip this place. For 40 quetzales it is worth spending some time here absorbing the amazing architecture and organization of this convent. I didn’t take a guide but figured out things by myself. Very nice museum as well with a lot of well preserved paintings and statues.” -Ana Nikolic
The Capuchinas Convent in Antigua boasts stunning Baroque and Moorish architecture, notably its church with intricate stonework. Open to the public, it features rooms, courtyards, and a museum with religious artifacts. Built in the 18th century, the complex blends Spanish colonial and Moorish styles, evident in its carved façade. The church’s tranquil design and natural light create a serene atmosphere. The courtyard, with gardens and a fountain, offers peace. Explore to learn about the nuns’ lives, and enjoy its role as a cultural space. This destination harmonizes history, art, and spirituality, providing an immersive experience. A visit is an enriching journey through Antigua’s past and culture.
In May 1725, the Capuchin nuns of Madrid received Royal approval from the King to erect a new convent to house no more than 25 nuns. This news was not necessarily popular among the City Council at the time, who claimed they already had enough convents and the city was too poor to support another. However, the Council’s opposition was overruled. Most likely because this new convent would be different than the others, as they would allow poverty-stricken women to enter religiously devoted life without providing a dowry.
Designed by Guatemalan architect Diego de Porres, it took approximately 10 years for the Convent and Church of Nuestra Señora del Pilar de Zaragoza, which was its official name, to be completed. It would also be the last convent ever to be built in the city. One of the most notable, and impressive, features of the convent is the round tower-like structure, with its eighteen cells or bedrooms, doors facing the center, known as “the Tower of Retreat for the Novices.” One can only get the sense that being a nun here required extreme sacrifice.
The convent would be occupied by the cloistered nuns until after the earthquake of 1751. Though it was only partially damaged, and later repaired, the convent was abandoned in 1774 and remained that way until 1850 when a private family purchased the property. It would later be restored, turned into a museum, and opened to the public. It also currently houses the Regional Government office, Consejo Nacional De Protección De Antigua Guatemala.
Please note that many of the entrance fees for landmarks, parks, and museums are subsidized by the government for Guatemalan citizens. You may notice a price difference for foreigners.
