Convento Santa Clara image

Convento Santa Clara

Tourist attraction Ruin

Remains of a large religious complex from the early 1700s featuring a church with an ornate facade. People often mention wedding, convent, ruins, beautiful, history, Antigua, stunning, Beautiful, architecture, grounds,


Address

H749+2PW, Antigua Guatemala, Guatemala

Website

cnpag.com

Contact

+502 7832 9739

Rating on Google Maps

4.70 (897 reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Thursday: 9 AM to 5 PM
  • Friday: 9 AM to 5 PM
  • Saturday: 9 AM to 5 PM
  • Sunday: 9 AM to 5 PM
  • Monday: 9 AM to 5 PM
  • Tuesday: 9 AM to 5 PM
  • Wednesday: 9 AM to 5 PM

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: wedding (17) convent (16) ruins (15) beautiful (14) history (13) Antigua (12) stunning (9) Beautiful (8) architecture (7) grounds (7)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Jessica K. 2 years ago on Google
    Wasn't prepared for what was inside beyond the entrance. Beautiful gardens, fountains and ruins. Extremely peaceful spot to stroll around. Would have loved to take a nap on the grass.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jerry R. 2 years ago on Google
    We spent 30 minutes here but easily could have spent an hour. Lovely historical architecture and well maintained grounds. Even though there is ongoing renovations to a portion of the complex it doesn’t detract from your experience. Would have like to have more knowledge presented throughout on the history to make it even more enjoyable.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 David M. 6 years ago on Google
    Really worth the time to stop by here and get a feel for the scale of this convent.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Robert C. 3 years ago on Google
    This is where the ABC disease sets in (another bloody convent). 40Q to get in and you'll likely be done in under 20 minutes. the courtyard is nice enough, though no different than any of the other convents, and there is a pleasant fountain. The place is being partially reconstructed so some areas do have scaffolding and men are working as you're walking around the ruins. The highlight is the Church with a reconstructed vaulted choir that's worth going up to. Best thing, there are bathrooms on site. Pleasant!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Emily P. 9 months ago on Google • 58 reviews
    Stopped by here on a whim, and absolutely loved it! Although it was July, it was not busy and we got excellent photos everywhere. Really cool ruins. My 9 year old said he thought it was cool. Also five stars for the bathroom. It’s one of the cleanest I’ve seen in the country. Definitely make this a stop.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 regis k. 1 year ago on Google • 727 reviews
    The Convento Santa Clara is an exceptional venue for a destination wedding. The stunning location transports you and your guests to the 1800s Spanish colonial days, making it feel like you're on a movie set. Although there was no on-site staff but it was no issue thanks to the wedding planner who orchestrated everything. The wedding planner ensured that every aspect of the wedding was taken care of, from the ceremony to the reception, creating a fairy-tale atmosphere for the bride and groom. As guests, we were able to fully enjoy the wedding without worrying about any of the details. The wedding planner made sure that everything ran smoothly and that everyone had a fantastic time. The venue itself was stunning, and it was the perfect backdrop for a romantic and unforgettable celebration. The highlight of the wedding was the mariachi band that played after the ceremony. The band added a fun and lively element to the celebration, and the wedding party was able to parade around the town square with them, making for a memorable experience for everyone involved. In conclusion, the Convento Santa Clara is an exceptional venue for a destination wedding, and the wedding planner made it a truly magical experience. If you're looking for a venue that will transport you to a different time and place, this is the place for you. And if you're looking for a wedding planner who will take care of every detail, look no further.

  • 5/5 Joseph N. 2 years ago on Google
    I really love Santa Clara as a wedding venue! It’s one of the most diverse ruins to get married in and the photos always turn out lovely! Highly recommend
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Vincent R. 7 years ago on Google
    Beautiful area to walk around, enjoy architecture, and take photos! 40Q entry fee for non-nationals.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Juice 1 year ago on Google • 223 reviews
    The Convento Santa Clara in Antigua, Guatemala is a stunningly beautiful and historic convent that is well worth a visit. Located in the heart of Antigua, the convent dates back to the 17th century and has been beautifully restored to showcase its rich history and architecture. One of the highlights of the convent is its stunning courtyard, which features a beautiful fountain and a lush garden. The courtyard is a tranquil oasis in the middle of the busy city, and it's the perfect place to relax and take in the beauty of the surroundings. Inside the convent, visitors can explore the various rooms and halls, which are filled with beautiful artwork, religious artifacts, and historical information. One of the most impressive rooms is the choir room, which features intricate carvings and beautiful stained glass windows. Throughout the convent, visitors can learn about the history of the convent and its role in the community. There are also guided tours available, which provide even more insight into the history and architecture of the building. Overall, the Convento Santa Clara in Antigua, Guatemala is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the city. The beauty and history of the building are truly awe-inspiring, and it's a great way to learn more about the rich culture and history of Guatemala.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 Jeffrey H. 1 year ago on Google
    BEWARE! The grounds are pretty and very interesting. We enjoyed looking around. The cost for two of us to enter was Q40, However, we were offered a tour and accepted. When we asked the cost there was no response from the man offering the tour. He looked official with a cap and embroidered shirt and he was with the man taking the entry fees No response should have alerted us. Long story short, a tour that may have lasted 40 minutes cost us $64 or Q500. I had given him Q200 and he insisted on Q700. We finally agreed on Q400 but again he insisted that I had only given him Q100. So we wound up spending Q500. Just be aware. I would not recommend accepting the tour unless a cost is firmly established.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jason T. 1 year ago on Google
    Great way to spend an hour in Antigua. I recommend sitting in a shady spot in the garden and recharging your 🔋
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Claire H. 1 year ago on Google
    Even lovelier than I expected, especially after my underwhelming visit to the capuchinas convent. I wish they’d had more benches to sit on and just take it all in, and would’ve been nice if fewer areas were under construction/filled with construction tools. But even so, one of the highlights of my visit to Antigua. Definitely recommend
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Tyillere H. 1 year ago on Google
    Absolutely beautiful historical site in Antigua. It's stunning to see what is still standing after all the years and volcanoes. They actually keep it very beautiful and clean. You pay to enter and then you also have to pay to get a guide. Getting a guide: they usually have one or two guides that are available. They will try and charge you anywhere between 100 to 300 Quetzales. Definitely negotiate for 100. It's worth getting a guide because they share a lot about what each room is, how it was used and other historical facts about the convent and nuns who lived there.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Joseph R. 2 years ago on Google
    This place is Majestic! It has an unbelievable intricately stone carved facade, green gardens and open ceiling sanctuary inside of beautiful Spanish colonial ruins, making this a photographers haven. Bring your significant other, dress to impress, and take at least an hour to make it memorable!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Potayto P. 1 year ago on Google
    Very scenic and peaceful historical site
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Trevor J. 2 years ago on Google
    Simply amazing!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Lynsey L. 1 year ago on Google
    Stepping into the Convent really felt like stepping back in time. A truly underrated landmark, showcasing the Spanish influenced architectural masterpiece it once was. I went in the middle of the afternoon and it was empty, besides a group of local women who were enjoying the grounds, which added to the very nature of the community which Antigua embodies. Inviting, friendly, and in community with one another. Definitely a must see!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Ana N. 1 year ago on Google
    Beautiful and well-preserved convent where you can easily spend more than an hour. Explore the cripts, the lovely detailed ornaments. The central atrium with calming sounds of the fountain is simply picture-perfect.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jonathan D. 6 months ago on Google • 267 reviews
    Incredible. Find the stairs to the second floor overlook and you’ll be rewarded with a spectacular overhead view of the convent with mountains in the background.

  • 5/5 Vera G. 1 year ago on Google • 262 reviews
    Convento Santa Clara is one of the most impressive building/ ruins in the area. The convent and the church were founded in 1699 by nuns from Puebla Mexico. This structure was operational from 1705 and destroyed in 1717 and again in 1773 but survived the earthquake in 1976. Today lots of weddings take place here because of its ornate facade, picturesque inner courtyard and a well maintained garden with beautiful plants. Its location is also popular with couples who have picnics and enjoy the beautiful settings in the convent. The exposed brick walls, church and convent structures, gardens and beautiful plants, small and large fountains, volcanoes in the background create an idyllic place for picnics. Tickets cost Q20 per person and it may take about an hour to see the whole place. Not a lot of information is available to read about its history and background, as such tourists need to come prepared or hire a local guide.

  • 5/5 Aivy L. 5 months ago on Google • 227 reviews
    A must see place in Antigua. The ruins are stunning and the history is rich. This made an amasing venue for a friend's wedding and was such a gorgeous aesthetic overall. - insta @ SpicyAivy

  • 5/5 Brian M. 1 month ago on Google • 48 reviews New
    This place is AMAZINGLY BEAUTIFUL!!! The architecture and design is out of this world. I was blessed to behold it and probably will want to experience it again before my time on this earth has ended

  • 5/5 Geoff R. 3 months ago on Google • 28 reviews New
    Absolutely beautiful!!! So much well preserved history and variety in here!!

  • 5/5 Michael W. 3 months ago on Google • 26 reviews New
    Beautiful place to experience. There are many other ruins in the area to explore and take in history. If you're visiting I recommend stopping by and taking time to see it's beauty

  • 5/5 Carey N. 1 year ago on Google • 13 reviews
    Just wow! I was here for a wedding and I have to say it was absolutely incredible and made for the perfect experience. The grounds were stunning and so well kept and the main hall made for the most beautiful wedding ceremony. I cannot wait to go back and explore some more :)

  • 5/5 Crystal F. 11 months ago on Google • 8 reviews
    The Santa Clara Covent was my favorite ruins I visited in Antigua. The beauty is absolutely breathtaking. The structure is well preserved and stunning. There was a wedding planner there and I think the couple made this their final venue decision, which didn’t surprise me. There’s an entry fee and if you’re paying in USD, it’s $6.00.

  • 5/5 Olga S. 5 months ago on Google • 8 reviews
    Wow. Amazing. We lucked out and we were almost the only ones there. It really feels like you are wandering through a fairy tail. Incredible views of surrounding mountains and volcanos, lush gardens, stunning ruined architecture. Small museum also really cool to check out for more history !

  • 5/5 Tracie V. 5 months ago on Google
    My cousin had her wedding here it was absolutely stunning, breathtaking .

  • 5/5 Maria I. 9 months ago on Google
    Stunning! You have to have special permission to visit this place but worth every minute. Santo Hermano Pedro has filled this place with love and a ton of memories.

  • 5/5 Veronica M. 1 year ago on Google
    Its Beautiful, grounds are well kept. Little small but the story is interesting.

  • 4/5 D. F. 1 year ago on Google
    They have beautiful gardens and some information on the history. It's similar to the monastery close by except that the monastery has a bit more explanation and historical items to see.

  • 2/5 Mervin S. 1 year ago on Google
    Beautiful ruins with a rich history. Unfortunately we were taken advantage of by the your guide and overcharged. If you are to do the tour, be sure to pay up front!

  • 5/5 Jim C. 2 years ago on Google
    Awesome place! Q40 for foreigners

  • 5/5 PEDRO J. L. 2 years ago on Google
    In the Top 10 places to visit in Antigua, it has gardens, fountains, criptas and interesting rooms. @pj_lemus

  • 4/5 300 feet a. 2 years ago on Google
    Really pretty grounds. $6 entrance fees is too high though. Locals basically pay nothing.

  • 5/5 Edin K. 2 years ago on Google
    This is the most important thing to do in Antigua

  • 4/5 Gerardo C. 2 years ago on Google
    Loved our visit to this old convent.

  • 5/5 James Z. 4 years ago on Google
    The most beautiful ruins in Antigua!

  • 5/5 Qiang F. 2 years ago on Google
    Church ruins, result of earthquakes. Beautiful arches, massive columns and walls, quiet garden with fountains.

  • 5/5 Bel W. 4 years ago on Google
    I love these ruins. Clean, beautifully green with rose garden and a quiet place to contemplate life away from the hectic streets. I spent a couple of hours photographing the ruins and just soaking up the atmosphere, it was amazing. It provided a feeling of peace and tranquility and definitely worth the visit.

  • 5/5 Gerald B. 3 years ago on Google
    The grounds these ruins set are lush, filled with flowering trees and shrubs. The architecture is perfect with the volcano in the background. It was a nice stop to spend part of the afternoon of traveling.

  • 5/5 Lola de B. 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful ruines! The place was amazing


Call +502 7832 9739 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Accessibility
    • ✗ Wheelchair accessible parking lot

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