Church and Convent of the Capuchins

It is located on 2nd Avenue North and 2nd Street West and it still preserves memories of its beautiful ancient facilities.

It is open to the public and is among the photographer’s favorites because of its beautiful courtyard and amazing bougainvillea flowers.

The construction permit was issued in 1725, five years after the first requested. It is one of the most compelling works of the renowned Diego de Porres, son of the notable José de Porres, who was also a prominent architect.

Most of the structure is in good repair and has been used for many cultural activities since the Conservation Council of Antigua Guatemala established its offices there.

A unique convent

In the days of yore, those who aspired to the nunnery would have to put up a dowry, i.e. one or several goods. Although the convent of the Capuchins did not demand a dowry, it never had more than 28 novices.

The convent housed many valuable goods that were moved by the nuns in 1773 when earthquakes forced them to set up in the new capital in the Ermita Valley. Many of the works of art can still be seen in the new temple, Saint Michael of the Capuchins, in Guatemala City.

The cells of the convent were different from those of other convents of the city: although small, they had a private restroom and study area. For this reason, the Center for the Conservation of Antigua Guatemala has considered it the first apartment building of the New World.

The cells formed a circular pattern, the only one of its kind among the convents of the city. The church has only one nave and does not have lateral halls. It did have two choir areas, one by the altar, and the other one on the second floor, above the end of the nave.

Another interesting characteristic is that one single column located in the basement holds up the entire building. Another important characteristic is that the crypts were not exclusively to bury for the members of the order.

Location in La Antigua Guatemala Click here and go to the interactive map.

This temple's and the School of Christ's facades are the only two in Antigua done in stone instead of stucco.

Of Italian origin

The order of the Capuchin nuns was founded in Italy with the purpose of obtaining sanctity through hard work and poverty while living in penitence and prayer.

When they arrived in Guatemala, they began to disseminate their religious beliefs, always in good spirits.

Although the monastery was dedicated to Our Lady of the Pillar of Zaragoza, the church was dedicated to Saint Michael the Archangel.