About Convento Capuchinas
Description
Step back in time at the Convento de Capuchinas, an architectural masterpiece that has stood the test of time since the 1700s. I’ve visited countless religious sites across Mexico, but this one left me absolutely speechless. The former convent, designed by the legendary Luis Barragán in 1955, showcases an incredible blend of colonial architecture and modern restoration that’ll make your jaw drop.
The minute you walk through those weathered stone walls, you’ll feel transported to a different era. The peaceful courtyard, with its perfect acoustics and minimalist design, creates this almost magical atmosphere that I honestly can’t put into words. And don’t even get me started on that iconic orange courtyard – it’s probably the most photographed spot in the whole complex, and for good reason!
Key Features
• The stunning central courtyard with its remarkable acoustic properties
• Original 18th-century stone architecture blending colonial and modern elements
• Preserved nuns’ cells that offer a glimpse into convent life
• The distinctive orange-walled meditation space
• Beautiful chapel with period-specific religious artwork
• Underground water filtration system (an engineering marvel for its time!)
• Multiple peaceful gardens and contemplation spaces
• Historic kitchen area with original cooking implements
• Impressive domed structures and archways
• Ancient well system still visible in the courtyard
Best Time to Visit
In my experience, early mornings between 9-11 AM offer the most serene atmosphere – you’ll practically have the place to yourself! The light streaming through the courtyards during these hours creates absolutely stunning photo opportunities. If you’re anything like me and want to avoid the tourist rush, skip weekends and opt for a mid-week visit instead.
The dry season (November through April) tends to be ideal since you’ll spend quite a bit of time in the outdoor courtyards. But honestly? Even during the rainy season, there’s something magical about watching the rain fall in the central courtyard. Just remember to bring an umbrella!
How to Get There
Getting to Convento Capuchinas is pretty straightforward. If you’re staying in the historic center, you can easily walk there – it’s about a 10-minute stroll from the main square. For those coming from further away, any taxi driver will know the spot, or you can use ride-sharing apps which I’ve found super reliable in the area.
If you’re feeling adventurous like I was on my first visit, you can take local buses that stop nearby – just ask for “las Capuchinas” and locals will point you in the right direction. The convent is surrounded by other historical attractions, so you might want to plan your route to include nearby sites.
Tips for Visiting
Listen, I learned some of these the hard way, so let me save you some trouble! First off, bring a good camera – your phone camera might struggle with the lighting contrasts in some areas. I missed some amazing shots my first time because I wasn’t prepared.
Wear comfortable shoes with good grip – those historic stone floors can be slippery, especially after rain. And speaking of comfort, bring a light jacket even on warm days. The thick stone walls keep the interior surprisingly cool, and you’ll want to spend at least an hour exploring everything properly.
Try to time your visit when tour groups aren’t around – usually mid-morning or late afternoon is perfect. The acoustics in the main courtyard are incredible, so take a moment to experience them. Stand in the center and speak softly – you’ll be amazed at how the sound carries.
Oh, and here’s something most guides won’t tell you: the best views of the orange courtyard are from the second-floor corridor, but you’ve gotta ask the guide specifically to take you there. Trust me, it’s worth it for those Instagram-worthy shots!
Consider hiring a local guide – they’ll share fascinating stories about the nuns who lived here and point out architectural details you might miss on your own. Some of those stories gave me goosebumps! And remember to book your tickets in advance during peak tourist season – nothing worse than showing up and finding out they’re fully booked for the day.
I always tell my friends to set aside at least 2-3 hours for their visit. Sure, you could rush through in an hour, but why would you want to? Take your time, soak in the atmosphere, and maybe sketch or journal a bit. It’s one of those places where the longer you stay, the more details you notice and appreciate.
