Santa Teresa Convent Museum
A colonial convent and museum in Arequipa, showcasing stunning art, serene gardens, and a living monastic community.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Santa Teresa Convent Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A colonial convent and museum in Arequipa, showcasing stunning art, serene gardens, and a living monastic community.
"One of the best museums in Arequipa, with beautiful grounds, gardens, architecture, and art pieces."
🎯 Take a Guided Tour
Highly recommended for deeper insights into history and art. Worth the extra cost!
🎟️ Book Special Events
Nocturnal tours are popular; book ahead to secure your spot.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cloisters and Gardens
Central Courtyard
Wander through serene cloisters and lush gardens, offering a peaceful escape and stunning architectural views.
Nativity Chest Collection
Sala Natividad de Jesús
Marvel at the unique 'Baúl de la Natividad,' a rare 1730 diorama from Quito, alongside other Child Jesus figures.
Ornate Sanctuary
Main Chapel
Experience the beauty of the ornate sanctuary, a testament to colonial religious art and architecture.
Art and Architecture
Various Galleries
Explore over 300 works of art, from paintings to sculptures, set within the convent's impressive colonial architecture.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Visit in Advance
Embrace the Guided Tour
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Take a Guided Tour
Highly recommended for deeper insights into history and art. Worth the extra cost! +1
🎟️ Book Special Events
Nocturnal tours are popular; book ahead to secure your spot. +2
📸 Capture the Beauty
The cloisters and gardens are incredibly photogenic. 
🎧 Use the Audio Tour
English audio tour available via cell phone for self-guided exploration.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Take a Guided Tour
Highly recommended for deeper insights into history and art. Worth the extra cost! +1
🎟️ Book Special Events
Nocturnal tours are popular; book ahead to secure your spot. +2
📸 Capture the Beauty
The cloisters and gardens are incredibly photogenic.
🎧 Use the Audio Tour
English audio tour available via cell phone for self-guided exploration.
🍪 Enjoy Nuns' Cookies
Buy delicious cookies from the nuns before your tour.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Santa Teresa Convent Museum as one of Arequipa's best, highlighting its stunning grounds, beautiful architecture, and impressive art collection. Many recommend the guided tours for a deeper understanding and appreciate the availability of English descriptions and audio guides. The peaceful atmosphere and the unique experience of purchasing cookies from the resident nuns are also frequently mentioned positives.
"One of the best museums in Arequipa. The beautiful grounds, gardens, architecture and art pieces are amazing. Most of the exhibits have descriptions in both Spanish and English and there is an English audio tour available via one’s cell phone. The entrance fee is 20 soles with additional discounts for seniors and students. The staff is very friendly and helpful and the facility is well maintained."
JMQZ
"A must when you visit Arequipa! A fourth of the monastery can be visited, 12 nuns live in the other 3/4 of the monastery. We recommend you take a guided tour. The entrance is 20 soles per person and an extra 20 soles for the guide, totally worth it. The cloister area was perfect to enjoy the cookies we bought from the nuns before going into the museum. Gracias Diana for the amazing tour!"
rocio tamez
"Went just after they opened so it was very quiet. Lovely museum very informative with all the info in both Spanish and english. I did not have a tour guide but available should you want one. Very calm and peaceful atmosphere if not a little eerie sometimes."
Zena Jackson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is centrally located in Arequipa, making it easily accessible by taxi or a short walk from the main plaza. Many visitors find it a convenient stop while exploring the city's historic center.
Street parking can be challenging in the historic center. It's often easier to use a taxi or ride-sharing service, or to park at a secure lot in the city center and walk.
Yes, the museum is within walking distance of the Plaza de Armas, typically a pleasant 10-15 minute stroll through charming colonial streets.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The standard entrance fee is around 20 soles. Discounts are often available for seniors and students. Special events like the 'Recorrido Nocturno' may have different pricing. +2
For regular visits, booking in advance isn't always necessary, but it's wise to check their official channels. For special events like the nocturnal tours, booking ahead is highly recommended as spots are limited. +2
Yes, guided tours are highly recommended by visitors for a richer experience. An additional fee usually applies, but many find it 'totally worth it.' +1
An English audio tour is available via your cell phone, providing information for self-guided exploration.
Opening hours can vary, especially for special events. It's best to check the museum's official website or social media for the most up-to-date information on daily hours and special tour times. +2
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
You can explore beautiful cloisters, serene gardens, an ornate sanctuary, and galleries featuring over 300 works of art, including the unique Nativity Chest. +1
The beautiful grounds and interesting art can engage older children. The 'Christmas Chest' diorama might also be a hit. Consider a guided tour to keep younger visitors interested.
While the main areas are generally accessible, some older convent structures might have limitations. It's advisable to contact the museum directly to inquire about specific accessibility features.
Photography policies can vary. Generally, non-flash photography for personal use is permitted in most areas, but it's always best to check for any specific restrictions.
A self-guided visit can take about 1-2 hours. With a guided tour, you might spend 2-3 hours exploring the convent and its collections. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no formal dining facilities within the museum itself. However, the cloister area is a perfect spot to enjoy cookies purchased from the nuns.
The museum is located in Arequipa's historic center, surrounded by numerous restaurants and cafes offering local and international cuisine. You can also find traditional 'picanterías' nearby.
While not a full cafe, visitors can purchase delicious cookies made by the resident nuns, which can be enjoyed in the cloister area.
📸 📸 Photography
The cloisters, courtyards, and gardens offer stunning architectural and natural beauty for photography. The ornate sanctuary and art pieces are also popular subjects.
Generally, flash photography is discouraged or prohibited inside museums to protect the artwork. Always check for signage or ask staff for clarification.
Drone usage is typically restricted in historic city centers and around cultural sites. It's highly unlikely to be permitted within the museum grounds.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider opting for a guided tour to keep younger visitors entertained and informed. The audio tour via phone is also a good option for a more independent exploration. Purchasing cookies from the nuns can be a fun treat and a memorable part of the visit.
🏛️ History Buffs & Art Lovers
Take advantage of the guided tours or the English audio guide to fully appreciate the historical context and artistic details. The well-preserved architecture of the convent itself is a significant draw, providing a tangible link to the past.
🧘♀️ Solo Travelers Seeking Peace
Visiting during off-peak hours, like right after opening, can ensure a more serene experience. The beautiful cloisters and gardens are perfect for quiet contemplation and reflection.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The 'Recorrido Nocturno' Experience
Visitors who have attended these nocturnal tours describe an incomparable ambiance, with the cloister and collections illuminated under the night sky. It's a chance to see the art and architecture in a different light, often accompanied by special thematic elements or guided narratives that enhance the mystical feel of the ancient convent.
Keep an eye on the museum's social media channels for announcements regarding these popular events. They are a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the history and spirituality of Santa Teresa in a truly memorable setting.
Art and Religious Significance
A standout exhibit is the 'Baúl de la Natividad,' a rare 1730 diorama from Quito depicting the Nativity scene. This intricate piece, along with a valuable collection of 'Niño Jesús' (Child Jesus) images, offers a unique glimpse into religious artistry and devotion. The museum also features an ornate sanctuary and a painted chapel, both notable for their detailed craftsmanship.
Beyond the visual arts, the museum offers insight into the life of Saint Teresa of Ávila, whose teachings about the 'interior castle' of the soul are central to the convent's spiritual heritage. The exhibits aim to present this universal message, making the museum a place of both artistic appreciation and spiritual reflection.
The Living Convent
This living aspect adds a unique dimension to the visitor experience. While visitors can explore designated museum areas, the privacy and spiritual practice of the nuns are respected. This separation ensures the convent's dual role as a historical site and a place of ongoing devotion.
Visitors can even purchase delicious cookies made by the nuns, offering a small, tangible connection to the community within. This practice not only provides a sweet treat but also supports the convent's upkeep and the nuns' way of life.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit