Former Monastery Hotels in South America

Next to the vibrant Cusco Central Square is the Belmond Hotel, a former monastery and a national monument. This ex monastery offers luxury colonial-style accommodation and it's set around a courtyard in the Cusco´s historical centre just 2 blocks from Plaza Armas Square. Originally built in 1592, Belmond Hotel Monasterio sits on the site of Inca Amaru Qhala’s palace. Six years later, the Spanish took it over and founded the Seminary of San Antonio Abad. However, an earthquake seriously damaged the building in 1650 and upon restoration the beautiful Chapel was added. In 1965, the building was remodelled as a hotel and right now it is a national historic landmark, protected by Peru’s National Institute of Culture.

Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Cartagena was built in 1621 and was initially used as a convent which accommodated the Poor Clares before their eviction in 1861. Apart from a convent, the building was also later turned into a charity hospital, a medical school and a prison, before becoming the luxurious hotel it is today in 1995.

The building in which this luxurious hotel is housed today was initially an Inca palace built in the 16th century. In the 18th century, it was used as a convent, in which later on some rooms where used as a boarding school for girls. The last nun that inhabited the convent left in 1977, and after that the building passed to the government of Peru before becoming the majestic hotel it is today.

Hotel Monasterio San Pedro was built in 1650 and was initially used as a monastery, before becoming the budget hotel that it is today. Guests can still admire and experience the heritage and rich history of the hotel through its architecture and unique atmosphere.