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

Explore the historic Claustro de San Agustín in Tunja: a cultural center with a rich past as a convent, hospital, and prison.

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The Claustro de San Agustín in Tunja is a historic building with architecture dating back to the 16th century. Once a religious site, it has served as a school, hospital, and even a prison. Today, it functions as a cultural center, showcasing the city's rich heritage.

A brief summary to San Agustin cloister

Local tips

  • Take your time to admire the architecture, which showcases a blend of colonial and religious styles.
  • Check out the Cultural Center of Banco de la República for local art exhibitions and cultural events.
  • Visit the nearby Plaza de Bolívar and Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica, which are within walking distance.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Claustro de San Agustín is located in the historic center of Tunja, easily accessible on foot from Plaza de Bolívar. From the plaza, walk along Cra. 8 towards the south. The cloister will be on your left, about three blocks from the plaza. There are no specific costs involved in reaching the cloister on foot.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by bus at the Tunja bus terminal, take a local bus heading towards the city center. Ask the driver to drop you off near Plaza de Bolívar. From there, follow the walking directions to the Claustro de San Agustín. A single bus fare within Tunja typically costs around 2,100 COP.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Tunja. From the bus terminal or any other point in the city, you can take a taxi to the Claustro de San Agustín. A short taxi ride within the city center should cost approximately 4,000 - 5,000 COP.

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Discover more about San Agustin cloister

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.

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