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Convento de las Capuchinas: A Glimpse into Antigua's Convent Life

Explore the ruins of Convento de las Capuchinas in Antigua, Guatemala, and step back in time to discover the lives of cloistered nuns in the 18th century.

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The Convento de las Capuchinas, or Capuchinas Convent, in Antigua, Guatemala, offers a captivating look into the lives of cloistered nuns in the 18th century. Founded in 1736, this convent and church complex stands as a testament to Spanish colonial architecture and the religious fervor of the time. Visitors can explore the ruins, including the unique circular cell block, and wander through peaceful gardens.

A brief summary to Convento Capuchinas

  • 2a Avenida Norte y 2a Calle Oriente esquina. Antigua Guatemala Sacatepéquez, Antigua Guatemala, 03001, GT
  • Visit website
  • Monday 9 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Allow at least one to two hours to fully explore the convent and its grounds.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking on cobblestone streets and uneven surfaces.
  • Bring cash for the entrance fee, as card payments may not be accepted.
  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
  • Consider hiring a local guide to learn more about the history and significance of the convent.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Convento de las Capuchinas is located on the corner of 2a Avenida Norte and 2a Calle Oriente in Antigua. From Antigua's Parque Central, walk north along 5a Avenida Norte. Turn right onto 2a Calle Oriente and continue for two blocks. The convent will be on your left. The walk is approximately 10 minutes. Tuk-tuks are readily available in Parque Central for around Q15-Q20.

  • Public Transport

    Chicken buses connect Antigua with nearby towns and Guatemala City, but are more suited for longer distances. For travel within Antigua, walking or tuk-tuks are more convenient. The chicken buses can be noisy and crowded. A ride in a tuk-tuk will likely not cost more than Q15 or Q20.

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Discover more about Convento Capuchinas

The Iglesia y Convento de las Capuchinas, consecrated in 1736, is a window into Antigua's rich history. The Capuchin nuns of Madrid founded the convent in 1731, with construction overseen by architect Diego de Porres. The indigenous people of the area were the ones who actually constructed the convent. The convent's original name was Convento e Iglesia de Nuestra Senora del Pilar de Zaragoza. The order differed from others of the time, as it allowed impoverished women to enter religious life without a dowry. Life at Las Capuchinas was relatively strict, with the convent housing a small community of nuns who lived in seclusion, dedicating themselves to prayer and service. The most distinctive feature is the Torre de la Soledad (Tower of Solitude), a circular structure with individual cells surrounding a central courtyard. This unique design reflected the Capuchin order's emphasis on austerity and communal living. The nuns were known in town for their singing talent. Unfortunately, the convent's history was relatively short-lived. Antigua suffered major earthquakes in 1751 and 1773, which severely damaged the structure. The nuns abandoned the convent and relocated to Guatemala City. Over the years, the ruins were used for various purposes, including drying coffee beans and growing crops. Today, after renovations, the Convento de las Capuchinas stands as a museum and popular tourist attraction. Visitors can wander through the ruins, explore the cells, courtyards, and church, and imagine what life was like for the Capuchin nuns who once called this place home.

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