Monastery of La Recoleta
Arequipa
The Monastery of La Recoleta, also known as Santa Ana de Monte Sion, is a Franciscan monastery located in Sucre, Bolivia. Founded in 1601, it was constructed starting in 1600 on the slopes of Cerro Churuquella with a generous donation from Bishop Alonso Ramírez de Vergara. The monastery is characterized by its peaceful courtyards surrounded by stone columned corridors and lush gardens filled with blooming roses and geraniums. Its restored chapel leads to an intricately carved wooden choir where monks once sang. Over time, the community expanded, adding a second floor to the cloister in 1650 and further cloisters in 1655 under the direction of Domingo Aguilar. The monastery stands at the edge of the city, near a small plaza housing a chapel with the historic Cruz Encarnada placed by Fr. Francisco Solano in 1585. The site offers a unique glimpse into colonial religious architecture and monastic life, reflecting the Franciscan order's values of poverty and contemplation amidst a rich cultural heritage.
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Tip: Visit during the dry season for pleasant weather and to fully enjoy the monastery's gardens and courtyards. Check opening hours in advance as they may vary. Guided tours can enrich the experience by providing historical context. Consider purchasing tickets ahead of time if available, and look for discounts for students or groups. Photography is often allowed but confirm on site.
Interesting facts
- •The monastery's choir features artistically carved wooden seats where monks historically sang.
- •The Cruz Encarnada, housed in a nearby chapel, was placed by Fr. Francisco Solano in 1585 and marks a historic route to the frontier.
- •The fountain in the adjacent plaza, called La Peregrina, has been relocated multiple times within Sucre, reflecting the city's evolving urban landscape.
History
The Monastery of La Recoleta was founded in 1601 by Franciscan friars on land purchased in 1599 with funds donated by Bishop Alonso Ramírez de Vergara.
Construction began in 1600, reflecting the modest means of the order.
The monastery expanded in the mid-17th century, adding additional floors and cloisters to accommodate a growing community.
Following Bolivia's independence in 1825, many convents were secularized, but in 1837 efforts were made to restore the Franciscan Order's presence, including at La Recoleta.
Over centuries, the monastery has witnessed significant religious and social changes while maintaining its spiritual and architectural heritage.
Place Guide
Main Cloister and Courtyards1600-1655
The monastery's peaceful cloisters feature stone columns and surround gardens with roses and geraniums, offering a serene environment for reflection and prayer.
Restored Chapel and ChoirEarly 17th century
The chapel leads to a choir with intricately carved wooden seats where monks used to sing, showcasing colonial religious art and craftsmanship.
Chapel with the Cruz Encarnada1585
Located in a small plaza near the monastery, this chapel houses the Cruz Encarnada, a historic religious symbol placed by Fr. Francisco Solano in 1585, marking an important route to the frontier.
Contact
Phone: (054) 270966
