Religious site
Monastery of Santa Catalina de Siena, Arequipa
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The Monastery of Santa Catalina de Siena is a sprawling 16th-century convent complex that now operates as a museum, offering a fascinating glimpse into colonial religious life. Covering over 20,000 square meters, it resembles a small walled city with narrow cobblestone streets, colorful plazas, and cloisters painted in vivid blues, whites, and reds. Visitors can explore the nuns' cells, kitchens, laundry rooms, and a tranquil garden, all showcasing colonial architecture and art. The monastery's self-contained community once housed up to 450 nuns, and its isolation preserved a unique atmosphere of serenity and history.
Don't miss
- Wander through the narrow streets and plazas painted in vibrant blue and white.
- Visit the nuns' cells and communal spaces to understand daily convent life.
- See the colonial-era religious paintings and sculptures in the museum galleries.
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Monastery of Santa Catalina de Siena, Arequipa
You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.
Cheapest way inWalking Tour through the Historic Center of Arequipa4.3★ · 18 travelers2–3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$10 per personSee dates →
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Private & flexiblePrivate Arequipa Countryside Tour,4.9★ · 22 travelers~5 hoursFree cancellationFrom$80 per personSee dates →More attractions in Arequipa