Visiting the Convento de Santa Clara in Antigua, Guatemala

The Convento de Santa Clara is a gorgeous former convent, standing in ruins on the 2nd Avenue North in the southeastern part of Antigua's old town.

For 40 Quetzals (€4.60 at the time of writing), you can explore the entire ruins at your own pace, climbing different staircases, entering different rooms, admiring all the possible views and taking in the impressive architecture.

The convent was commissioned by the Franciscan order and construction began in 1699. It took three years to complete at which time the nuns of the Order of Saint Clare established themselves there. Also known as the "Poor Clares", these nuns were known for strict prayer routines and modest living conditions. Unfortunately, a major earthquake in 1773 destroyed much of the convent, after earlier earthquakes had already caused damage throughout the 18th century.

The convent laid abandoned until 1944 at which time Guatemala took it over, restored its gorgeous architectural beauty and reopened the space as an event and wedding venue and museum. It was the perfect way to spend an afternoon, wandering at leisure through the grounds, learning the history and snapping photographs of arguably the most aesthetically beautiful building in Antigua!