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Monasterio de Santa Catalina de Siena
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Historical site
The Monastery of Santa Catalina de Siena is a historical jewel located in the heart of Quito's Old Town. Founded in 1594, it is one of the city's oldest convents and continues to house a community of Dominican cloistered nuns to this day. The monastery's architecture is characterized by its massive white walls and traditional colonial cloisters that radiate peace and spirituality. Inside, it preserves an impressive collection of religious art from the Quito School, featuring sculptures and paintings by renowned masters such as Caspicara and Legarda. Particularly noteworthy is the monastery church, with its Mudéjar style and intricately carved wooden altars. For centuries, the monastery remained strictly closed to the public, but several years ago, it opened sections of its premises as a museum. Visitors can now admire the artwork and learn about the traditional production of natural remedies, for which the nuns have been famous for generations.
- Location: Ecuador
- Top sights: Museo dominicano de arte Fray Pedro Bedón · Sucre House · Museo del Pasillo
- Nearby: Sangolquí (8 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 17 | 17 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 17 | 18 | 18 | 17 | 17 | 17 |
| Rain mm | 139 | 143 | 176 | 177 | 123 | 58 | 34 | 25 | 38 | 76 | 90 | 100 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Monasterio de Santa Catalina de Siena in Quito is a historic monastery, partially open to visitors. Interiors such as the cloister and chapel can be visited for a fee.
Typical hours
The monastery is typically open weekdays from morning until early evening, Saturdays often only until noon. Sundays and public holidays are usually closed or by appointment.
Photography
Photography is allowed in public areas of the monastery without flash. In the chapel and certain rooms there may be a photography ban, so watch for signs.
Time needed
Visiting the monastery takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. If you want to thoroughly examine the exhibits and artworks, plan for up to 2 hours.
Combine with
The monastery is in Quito's historic center, near Plaza Grande and the Cathedral. Combine the visit with the Presidential Palace and the Church of the Society of Jesus.
Getting there
The monastery is a 5-minute walk from Plaza Grande. Alternatively, take the Trolleybus (Metrobús) to Plaza Grande stop and then walk a short distance.
Insider tip
Ask at the entrance about a guided tour to access otherwise closed rooms like the library. Visit the monastery on a weekday as weekends often have shorter hours.
Geography
Facts
- Founded in 1594 by Maria de Siliceo
- One of the oldest religious institutions in Quito
- Houses over 100 artworks from the Quito School of Art
- Nuns have been producing natural remedies for centuries
- The museum was opened to the public in 2008
- The church features rare Mudéjar architectural elements
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Monasterio de Santa Catalina de Siena (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Can you enter the monastery?
Yes, parts of the monastery are accessible as a museum of religious art.
Are there still nuns living there?
Yes, it is an active cloistered monastery, but the nuns live separately.
Is there a shop?
Yes, you can buy natural remedies and sweets made by the nuns.
Where is it located?
In the historic center of Quito, on the corner of Espejo and Flores streets.
Is photography allowed inside?
Photography is usually restricted or prohibited in the museum areas.
Monasterio de Santa Catalina de Siena: where is it located?
Monasterio de Santa Catalina de Siena is located in Ecuador.
Monasterio de Santa Catalina de Siena: what is there to see?
Highlights include Museo dominicano de arte Fray Pedro Bedón, Sucre House, Museo del Pasillo.
Monasterio de Santa Catalina de Siena: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Monasterio de Santa Catalina de Siena: why is it worth visiting?
The Monastery of Santa Catalina de Siena is a historical jewel located in the heart of Quito's Old Town.
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Temple of the Fatherland
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