Claustro de San Agustín: A Journey Through Tunja's History

The Claustro de San Agustín, located in the historic center of Tunja, Colombia, is a captivating landmark with a rich and varied past. Founded on August 20, 1537, on the lands of Quemuenchatocha, where the convent of San Agustin was later built. The building's construction began in 1578 and was completed in 1603. Its architecture reflects a colonial style, featuring a central garden surrounded by four galleries in the Sevillian style, adorned with Tuscan stone columns and semicircular arches on both levels. Initially an Augustinian convent, the Claustro played a significant role in the religious life of Tunja. However, its function evolved over time. In 1822, the Augustinians were compelled to hand over the building to the Colegio de Boyacá, due to the new Education Law. It later served as a hospital under the direction of the religious order of San Juan de Dios between 1824 and 1859. During the civil war of 1860, it was used as an army barracks. From 1862 until 1966, the Claustro served as a prison, housing prisoners from across the country. In 1979, the Bank of the Republic undertook a restoration project, transforming the Claustro into a cultural center in 1984. Today, visitors can explore the cloister's stunning courtyard and admire the uncovered frescoes. The building houses the Cultural Center of Banco de la República, offering library services, exhibition halls, and an auditorium for academic activities. The cloister stands as a testament to Tunja's layered history, reflecting its religious, educational, and civic transformations.