ExConvento o Convento de Santa María de Dueñas
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Convento de las Dueñas Salamanca

4.7
·77 reviews·Zamora, Spain

Discover the hidden gem of Salamanca: a serene convent with a breathtaking pentagonal cloister and delicious traditional sweets.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
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ExConvento o Convento de Santa María de Dueñas

Convento de las Dueñas Salamanca

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover the hidden gem of Salamanca: a serene convent with a breathtaking pentagonal cloister and delicious traditional sweets.

4.7
(77 reviews)

"A must-visit for its unique cloister and delightful convent sweets!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Arrive Early for Peace

Beat the crowds by visiting weekday mornings for a serene experience.

💰 Bring Cash for Sweets

The convent shop often requires cash payment for their delicious traditional sweets.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Pentagonal Cloister

The Pentagonal Cloister

Convento de las Dueñas

A breathtaking Plateresque cloister with unique pentagonal shape and intricate, fantastical capitals.

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Elaborate Capitals

Elaborate Capitals

Cloister

Marvel at the inexhaustible variety of sculpted capitals, adorned with imaginative and fantastical figures.

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Convent Sweets Shop

Convent Sweets Shop

Convento entrance

Indulge in traditional, delicious convent sweets like 'Amarguillos' and 'Angel's doughnuts.'

InstagramReddit
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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for Tranquility

To experience the Convento de las Dueñas' serene beauty without the crowds, aim for weekday mornings. Many visitors arrive later, so an early start offers a more peaceful exploration of its stunning cloister and architecture. Instagram

Sweet Treats & Cash Only

Don't miss the convent's famous 'dulces de convento,' especially the 'Amarguillos' and 'Angel's doughnuts.' Remember to bring cash, as the shop often operates on a cash-only basis. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon (before closing)
Why
Catch the last light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#misticasinfronteras #conventodelascapuchinas
@mistica_33
14K likes • 766.1K views

🎯 Arrive Early for Peace

Beat the crowds by visiting weekday mornings for a serene experience. Instagram

💰 Bring Cash for Sweets

The convent shop often requires cash payment for their delicious traditional sweets. Reddit

⛪️ El CONVENTO DE LAS DUEÑAS y su CLAUSTRO PENTAGONAL, en Salamanca. Con @mediterraneoalmoundo El claustro está abierto de lunes a sábado desde las 10h hasta las 12:45 y la entrada vale 3€ por persona. La iglesia, sin embargo, solo está abierta al culto. #historyaydan #mediterraneoalmoundo #ritaysanti #historia #reel #historyreel #historiador #historiadelarte #historiadeespaña #español #españa #...
historyaydan
265 likes • 7.5K views
📍 Convento de las Dueñas (Salamanca) ✝️ Es uno de los secretos mejor guardados de Salamanca y uno de los claustros más bellos de toda España. Está en el convento de las Dueñas de Salamanca. 👉 Fue en su origen un palacio y se rehízo en el siglo XVI para a acoger a las monjas dominicas que actualmente lo habitan. 👉 Su claustro recuerda en cierta medida a la Plaza Mayor de Salamanca y destaca por...
viajeconpablo
440 likes • 13.5K views

🔔 Ring for Service

If the shop is closed, ring the bell and the nuns will assist you through the turnstile. Reddit

📸 Capture the Details

Focus on the intricate capitals and unique architectural elements for stunning photos. Instagram

📍 Convento de las Dueñas, Salamanca. Fundado en 1419, conserva un interesantísimo claustro plateresco de 1533 con elaborados capiteles adornados con esculturas de fantasía y variedad inagotables. 📍 Convent of Las Dueñas, Salamanca. Founded in 1419, it preserves a very interesting Plateresque cloister from 1533 with elaborate capitals adorned with sculptures of fantasy and inexhaustible variety....
ars_aedificia
205 likes • 2.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Arrive Early for Peace

Beat the crowds by visiting weekday mornings for a serene experience. Instagram

💰 Bring Cash for Sweets

The convent shop often requires cash payment for their delicious traditional sweets. Reddit

🔔 Ring for Service

If the shop is closed, ring the bell and the nuns will assist you through the turnstile. Reddit

📸 Capture the Details

Focus on the intricate capitals and unique architectural elements for stunning photos. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Surroundings

Combine your visit with other Salamanca gems like Plaza Mayor and Casa de las Conchas. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(77 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Convento de las Dueñas for its stunning and unique pentagonal cloister, adorned with incredibly detailed and imaginative capitals. The traditional convent sweets are a major draw, offering a delicious taste of local heritage. While the exterior is unassuming, the interior beauty and the charming nuns who assist in the shop leave a lasting positive impression.

"Some excellent sweets. Traditional traditional recipes, with appropriate prices.
Parking space in case you go by car, or quietly taking a walk. It is advisable to call before going down, because the nuns do not answer if they are at mass."

Miguel Ángel Prieto

"Since always more than 45 years ago, which is when I remember since I was little, an aunt of my father worked there as a doorman or something like that when she became a widow, and when we went to see her she gave us almond Angel doughnuts, and something else and they were bigger than the current ones, but above all they were crunchy and as if with air bubbles that when you ate them they broke and were more TOASTED; The oils have a very good texture but you cannot appreciate the anise or the essence of anise, I would like to be able to recover the flavors of yesteryear since the people who made it are no longer present and although they left their recipes I would like to see an attempt to recover the old preparation, I do not know if it will also be the ingredients, health etc, a big greeting to all the readers,"

Roberto Lorenzo

"It is true that it is not in the tourist area of ​​Zamora, it is somewhat remote, but it is worth going by car and buying a box of donuts...
You won't regret it...
The sweets are delicious!!!!!!!!!"

aquimecole

What People Like

Stunning pentagonal cloister
Intricate, fantastical capitals
Delicious traditional sweets

What People Dislike

Austere exterior
Limited church access

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The convent is located in Salamanca and is accessible by car. There is parking available at the entrance. Reddit It's a pleasant walk from the city center, allowing you to soak in Salamanca's historic atmosphere. Instagram

Yes, it's accessible by car with parking available. The walk from the city center is also manageable for those who enjoy exploring on foot. Reddit

From Plaza Mayor, you can enjoy a leisurely walk of about 15-20 minutes to reach the Convento de las Dueñas, passing through charming streets. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The cloister is typically open Monday to Saturday from 10:30 AM to 12:45 PM and again from 4:30 PM to 7:00 PM. Sunday hours may vary. It's advisable to check current hours before your visit. Instagram+1

Admission to the cloister is usually around 2-3 euros per person. Instagram+1 This affordable price makes it a great value for experiencing this historical gem.

The church is primarily open for religious services (culto) and may not be accessible for general tourist visits. The main attraction for visitors is the cloister. Instagram

Generally, advance booking is not required for individual visitors. You can purchase tickets upon arrival at the convent. Instagram

Visitors are asked to be respectful of the nuns' living space. The shop operates during specific hours, and it's recommended to call ahead if unsure. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed in the cloister area, allowing you to capture its stunning architecture and intricate details. Instagram+1 Be mindful of any specific signage or requests from the convent staff.

The pentagonal cloister itself is the star, with its unique angles and detailed capitals. Look for interesting light and shadow play. Instagram+1

While generally permitted, avoid intrusive photography, especially if religious services are taking place. Respect the peaceful atmosphere of the convent. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expanse of the cloister, while a prime lens can help with detailed shots of the capitals. Instagram Good low-light performance is beneficial. Instagram

Photography in the shop might be limited to preserve the atmosphere and privacy. It's best to ask permission before taking photos of the sweets or the shop interior. Instagram

🍽️ 🍰 Food & Dining

The convent is renowned for its traditional 'dulces de convento,' particularly the 'Amarguillos' and 'Angel's doughnuts.' InstagramReddit These are made with traditional recipes and are a must-try.

There is a dedicated shop at the convent entrance where you can purchase these delicious treats. Reddit It's an ideal place to buy gifts or souvenirs.

Yes, it's highly recommended to bring cash, as the shop often operates on a cash-only basis. Reddit This is a common practice in many traditional convent shops.

The prices are generally considered reasonable and in line with the quality and artisanal work involved in making them. Reddit

Traditional convent sweets are often made with simple ingredients like almonds, sugar, and eggs. Specific dietary options may be limited, so it's best to inquire directly at the shop. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Convento de las Dueñas offers a unique experience for families, blending history with a touch of wonder. The intricately carved capitals in the cloister can spark children's imaginations, with their fantastical figures and hidden details. Instagram+1 It's a great opportunity to introduce them to historical architecture in a less overwhelming setting than larger museums. The convent sweets shop is also a big hit with younger visitors, offering a delicious reward after exploring the cloister. InstagramReddit Remember to bring cash for these treats!

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the Convento de las Dueñas is an excellent choice. The entry fee to the cloister is very affordable, typically around 2-3 euros, making it an accessible attraction. Instagram+1 You can easily spend an hour or more admiring the architecture without breaking the bank. Furthermore, purchasing traditional convent sweets offers a delicious and relatively inexpensive souvenir or snack. Reddit Combine this visit with free attractions in Salamanca like the Plaza Mayor to maximize your savings.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Photographers will find the Convento de las Dueñas a rewarding location. The pentagonal cloister offers unique perspectives and geometric patterns that are perfect for architectural shots. Instagram+1 Pay close attention to the elaborate capitals, which are rich in detail and offer fantastic opportunities for close-up photography. Instagram+1 The interplay of light and shadow within the cloister can create dramatic and atmospheric images. Visiting during the morning hours can provide softer light and fewer people, ideal for capturing stunning visuals. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Architectural Marvel: The Plateresque Cloister

The Convento de las Dueñas in Salamanca is a testament to Spanish Renaissance architecture, particularly its stunning Plateresque cloister. Founded in 1419, the convent underwent significant transformations, with the cloister dating back to 1533. Instagram+1 What sets this cloister apart is its unique pentagonal shape, a departure from the typical square or rectangular designs. This unusual layout creates a dynamic and visually engaging space. Instagram+1

The capitals adorning the cloister's columns are a true highlight. They are intricately carved with a fantastical array of sculptures, featuring a variety of motifs that showcase the artisans' creativity and skill. Instagram+1 Visitors often describe them as a 'dream of capitals,' filled with imaginative figures that invite close inspection and spark the imagination. The blend of religious and decorative elements makes it a fascinating study in Renaissance art. Instagram

A Taste of Tradition: Convent Sweets

Beyond its architectural beauty, the Convento de las Dueñas is celebrated for its traditional convent sweets, a culinary heritage passed down through generations of nuns. InstagramReddit The most famous among these are the 'Amarguillos,' a type of almond cookie, and the 'Angel's doughnuts' (Rosquillas de Ángel), often made with oil and candied almonds. Reddit These treats offer a delicious glimpse into the convent's history and the nuns' dedication to preserving these recipes.

Visitors often rave about the authentic flavors and the unique experience of purchasing these handmade delicacies. Reddit The shop, typically located near the entrance, is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth. It's important to note that many convent shops, including this one, often operate on a cash-only basis, so it's wise to have some euros on hand. Reddit Purchasing these sweets is not just about enjoying a treat; it's also a way to support the convent and its community.

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