Santa Catalina Convent : info and guided tour

About Santa Catalina Convent

Santa Catalina Convent in Arequipa is one of Peru’s most remarkable historic complexes. Located at Santa Catalina 301, it is a large former Dominican convent that is now open to visitors as a historic museum. Its inner streets, courtyards and cells create the feeling of a small enclosed town in the heart of the White City.

The site has preserved a very distinctive colonial architecture, with volcanic stone walls and spaces arranged around cloisters. The bright colors of some corridors, the arches, the prayer rooms and the convent areas create a setting that is both austere and refined. The whole complex clearly reflects Arequipa’s religious history.

The convent is known for its unique atmosphere and the richness of its preserved spaces. Visitors can discover chapels, gardens, narrow passages and rooms that bear witness to monastic life. The visit highlights the contrast between the quiet areas of the convent and the walls painted in deep shades.

Discover Arequipa with a private guide

A private guide can help you better understand the layout of the convent, its religious use and its role in Arequipa’s history. It also provides context on the architecture, the convent spaces and the details often missed on a self-guided visit, while offering background on this historic museum.