Overview:

: The Monastery of Santa Catalina is a fortress-like citadel of cloistered nuns located in downtown Arequipa, Peru. Built in 1580 and covering 20,000 square meters, it is the largest religious monument of colonial Peru and a wonderfully preserved living museum of colonial life. It is also known as the “city within a city” for its high defensive walls and maze-like narrow streets. The monastery was closed to the public for 400 years, and the centuries-old architecture, furniture and artwork are still largely intact, creating a unique atmosphere of seclusion and mystery. Declared a Historic Cultural Monument by UNESCO, the monastery is now open to visitors who can explore its breathtaking courtyards, museums and a plaza. The complex is home to impressive art collections, displays of centuries-old religious ceremonies and beautiful catacombs. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Peru
Prominent Features:

The Monastery of Santa Catalina is one of the most historic and iconic sights in Arequipa, Peru. The monastery was founded in 1580 by a Spanish nun, Isabel Flores de Oliva, and was originally founded as a convent. It served as a retreat for wealthy Spanish women of the region for nearly four centuries before being converted into a museum in 1970. The monastery itself spans more than 20,000 square meters and includes a network of streets, plazas, and buildings. Visitors can explore the colorful buildings, courtyards, gardens, and churches. Inside the walls, visitors can find the chapel of the Virgin Mary, a refectory, and a cloister, among many other attractions. The architecture of the monastery is noteworthy for its exceptional range of colors, which range from red and yellow to blue and ochre. Much of the artwork and murals are still intact, making it a great site for art enthusiasts. Perhaps the best feature of the monastery is the mirador, or view tower, where visitors can get a spectacular view of the surrounding landscape. This unique perspective provides visitors with a chance to see the complex from the top down, giving them an unforgettable view of the quaint town below. The Monastery of Santa Catalina in Arequipa is truly a sight to behold and a must-see for anyone visiting Peru. It is full of history and beauty, and a wonderful way to get a glimpse into the past of Peruvian culture and religion. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Peru.

History:

The Monastery of Santa Catalina in Arequipa, Peru, was founded in 1579 by a wealthy philanthropist named María de Guzmán. Originally intended as a convent for poor and orphaned girls, the facility eventually became home to young and wealthy women of Arequipa’s elite nobility. From 1580 to 1871, Santa Catalina became a cloistered convent for many of Arequipa's wealthiest young women. The walls around the monastery kept out the outside world, though the nuns were allowed to receive visitors and engage in commerce. Artists from all around Peru were hired to paint and decorate the buildings of the monastery. In 1971, Santa Catalina was opened up to the public. With newly installed plumbing and electricity, the 400-year-old monastery has become a popular tourist destination and a symbol of Arequipa's vibrant culture. Visitors can explore and admire the vivid architecture, intricate designs, and artwork of the monastery. Today, the Monastery of Santa Catalina is a published historical landmark and a remarkable example of Peru’s legacy. It still serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who dedicated their lives to the Church and a testament to the resilience of Arequipa’s past. Visit one of the famous monuments of Peru with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. The Monastery of Santa Catalina was founded in 1580 as a Catholic convent for wealthy young women. 2. The city of Arequipa, Peru is known for its stunning volcanic landscape; the Monastery of Santa Catalina may be its most recognizable structure. 3. The entire complex covers roughly 20,000 square meters, with colorful buildings, quaint courtyards, and narrow cobblestone streets similar to those found throughout Europe. 4. Today, the monastery offers a captivating insight into life as a colonial nun and is still home to some of the sisters of the Third Order of St. Dominic. 5. The Monastery of Santa Catalina also houses an interesting museum, containing various artifacts such as vestments, artworks, and manuscripts. 6. At its peak, the Monastery bustled with over 450 nuns living in 150 cells spread out over its colorful walled complex. 7. The convent maintained a high level of self-sufficiency and autonomy and had its own bakery, supermarket, and barber. 8. Santa Catalina is a National Historical Monument of Peru and was restored in the 1970s. One of the historical monuments of Peru, it tells the story of a bygone era