Monasterio de Santa Paula

The Monasterio de Santa Paula, founded by Doña Ana de Santillana in 1473 for nuns of the cloistered Order of Saint Jerome comprises a church and a cloister. Among the first monasteries in the city to receive the designation of a historic monument, the edifice is a popular tourist attraction. The convent opened its doors to visitors after being converted into a museum.

It houses a permanent art collection, and is also well known among the local community for the delicious candies, marmalades, and madeleine cakes handmade by the nuns here that are then sold at the site. The unique design of the Monasterio de Santa Paula, particularly the church within, is a seamless blend of Gothic and Mudéjar style with Renaissance elements.

As you witness the structure from the outside, it presents the appearance of a modest building with a brick doorway. Once you step inside, you will find yourself in an atrium facing the church. As you enter the church you will see one of its most significant features which is an early 16 th century brick-and-tile creation by sculptor Pedro Millán and Francisco Niculoso Pisano.

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• Step into the solemn atmosphere of this 15th century monastery that is also the first of its kind in Seville to become a historical monument
• Marvel at the imposing entryway to the church that is a beautiful combination of Gothic and Mudéjar style architecture with Renaissance elements
• Witness one of the most elegant belfries in the city with its slender structure comprising two levels and four bells
• Admire the richly decorated Gothic-Mudejar ribbed ceiling and the stained glass windows decorated with plasterwork and paintings
• Pick some of the delectable marmalades, candies, and madeleine cakes made and sold by the nuns’ confectionery here

The best time to visit the monastery is in the early hours of the morning. The gates of the Monasterio de Santa Paula open early for visitors and continue until mid-afternoon. Visiting early not only helps you avoid big crowds and large tour groups but also lets you explore the place while the weather is relatively cooler.

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Tips To Visit Monasterio de Santa Paula

1. Wear clothes that covers your knees and shoulders as this place has a religious significance
2. Visit early to explore the monastery in relative quiet and soak in the peaceful atmosphere of the place
3. Pick a few bottles of the delicious jams and marmalades made and sold by the nuns here to take back home with you

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By Bus: you can either take the bus line M-165 or M-168 as they follow routes that pass near Calle Monasterio de Santa Paula. The nearest bus stop where you should disembark is in Espartinas which is only a 4 minutes’ walk away.

By Train: You can avail the C5 train line and get off at the nearest station which is Urb El Loreto V that is only 282 meters away from your destination and takes about 4 minutes to cover on foot.

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