Monasterio de Santa Catalina de Siena, Dominican monastery in historic center, Quito, Ecuador.
The Monastery of Saint Catherine of Siena sits in central Quito with thick stone walls and traditional colonial architecture that reflects its age. The complex includes cloisters, work areas for the nuns, and exhibition rooms that display religious artworks spanning several centuries.
Maria de Siliceo founded this Dominican monastery in 1593 under the protection of Our Lady of Peace. Over the centuries the building grew and remained an important religious center as the city developed around it.
The community of Dominican nuns who inhabit this place has shaped its character for centuries through their daily prayers and contemplative life. Their presence infuses the building with a sense of living tradition that visitors can feel when walking through its halls.
The exterior of the monastery is visible from the street with its impressive stone facade, but interior visits should be done respectfully as nuns live and work there. The surrounding streets are sometimes steep and narrow, so comfortable shoes are helpful when exploring this historic area.
The Dominican nuns here prepare traditional herbal remedies following ancient recipes, continuing practices that have been passed down for generations. This blend of old knowledge with current life is something many visitors overlook when touring historic religious sites in the city.
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