San Benito de Alcántara

San Benito de Alcántara is a convent in Alcántara featuring Renaissance arches across a three-story loggia and a central polygonal apse flanked by two semicircular ones. The building combines religious spaces with structured interior areas arranged around the cloister.

Construction began in 1505 under architect Pedro de Ybarra after the Order of Alcántara decided to establish a new religious center. The convent was built on the foundations of a former Moorish fortress, incorporating elements from different periods.

The Gothic cloister has a square layout with two stories, showing how Spanish convents were designed in the 16th century. Visitors can see how the rooms are arranged around the central courtyard.

The convent is open to visitors who can explore the main nave, two side aisles, and the preserved sections of the original structure. It helps to take time looking at the cloister to fully understand the spatial layout.

The convent stands on the foundations of a former Moorish fortress, blending architectural elements from different time periods in its design. This layering of styles reflects how the building shows a transition between two cultures.

Location: Alcántara

Inception: 12 century

GPS coordinates: 39.72025,-6.88456

Latest update: December 12, 2025 16:43