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Santa Catalina Monastery Museum and its collection

Santa Catalina Monastery Museum
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The Santa Catalina Monastery, also known as Convento de Santa Catalina, is a religious tourist complex situated in the historic center of Arequipa, Peru. This monastery was founded on September 10, 1579, and is renowned for its natural beauty and welcoming climate. The architecture of the monastery is unique, constructed from sillar, a white volcanic rock from the Chachani volcano, and pink sillar from the Misti volcano, the latter being a symbol of the city. Despite being located in the heart of the city, the monastery is completely isolated, surrounded by a solid 4-meter high wall.

Public Opening

In 1970, a large part of the Santa Catalina Monastery opened its doors to the public. The nuns allowed a private company to manage the monastery, which still houses nuns in the northern part of the complex. This marked a significant shift from the monastery's previous seclusion and added a new chapter to its rich history.

Architectural Evolution

Over the centuries, the Santa Catalina Monastery has undergone various modifications and additions, making it a human-scale display of Arequipa's colonial architecture. The narrow streets and cloisters are filled with colorful flowers, and the walls are painted in fresh tints. The narrow alleys lead to various parts of the convent, passing through picturesque sites and living and sleeping areas with original furniture.

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ESMonasterio de Santa Catalina
DEKloster Santa Catalina
FRCouvent Santa Catalina
ESMonasterio de Santa Catalina de Siena (Arequipa)

History & Anthropology History & Anthropology Religion Religious building

#7 History & Anthropology in Peru #6 Religion museums in Peru #6 Religious buildings in Peru #1 History & Anthropology in Arequipa #1 Religion museums in Arequipa #1 Religious buildings in Arequipa

#7 History & Anthropology in Peru #6 Religion museums in Peru #6 Religious buildings in Peru #1 History & Anthropology in Arequipa #1 Religion museums in Arequipa #1 Religious buildings in Arequipa
Santa Catalina Monastery Museum
Santa Catalina 301
04001 Arequipa

Images of Santa Catalina Monastery Museum

Visitor information Santa Catalina Monastery Museum

Opening hours

Monday
9:00 – 18:00
Tuesday
9:00 – 18:00
Wednesday
9:00 – 18:00
Thursday
9:00 – 20:30
Friday
9:00 – 18:00
Saturday
9:00 – 18:00
Sunday
9:00 – 18:00

Closed: Holy Friday, Dec 25th and Jan 1st

More opening hours

Admission

AdultsPEN 45.00
Adults ForeignersPEN 45.00
Foreigners (7 to 21 years old)PEN 25.00
Peruvian School ChildrenPEN 6.00
Peruvian Senior CitizensPEN 25.00
Peruvian University StudentsPEN 15.00

PROMOTIONAL DAYS FOR PERUVIANS (On the 10th and last Sunday of the month, Present ID), except National Holidays, the Promotion is moved to the following Sunday
Adults: S/ 10.00
School children: S/ 5.00

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Facilities

We don't have information about the facilities of Santa Catalina Monastery Museum.

Location & Map

Santa Catalina 301, Arequipa

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Exhibitions

No exhibitions in Santa Catalina Monastery Museum have been found.

Santa Catalina Monastery Museum Reviews

Santa Catalina Monastery Museum has 1 rating.

  • Apollo's Insights AI-Generated

    The Santa Catalina Monastery Museum in Arequipa, Peru, offers visitors a captivating look into the lives of cloistered nuns from the 16th to 18th centuries. This well-preserved religious complex, often referred to as a "city within a city," spans a vast area and features striking architecture with a mix of colonial and native influences.

    Visitors appreciate the museum's expansive grounds, which include numerous courtyards, living quarters, and chapels, all painted in vibrant colors that contrast beautifully with the volcanic stone walls. The self-guided tour allows guests to explore at their own pace, with informative plaques providing historical context throughout.

    Many reviewers highlight the peaceful atmosphere and the opportunity to step back in time, experiencing the secluded life of the nuns. The museum's collection of religious art, furniture, and artifacts from the colonial period adds depth to the experience.

    Some visitors note that the entrance fee is relatively high compared to other attractions in Arequipa, but most feel the unique experience justifies the cost. A few reviewers mention that some areas can feel repetitive, and those with mobility issues might find the uneven surfaces challenging.

    Overall, the Santa Catalina Monastery Museum is highly regarded for its historical significance, architectural beauty, and the insight it provides into an often-overlooked aspect of colonial religious life in Peru.

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