The Convent Route: Monastic Dormitories Opening Their Doors to Travelers

The Best Kept Secret: Accommodation in Cloisters

Did you know that in the heart of downtown Medellín, just blocks from the hustle and bustle of Carrera Junín, there is a place where the silence is so thick you can almost touch it? I'm not talking about a museum or just any church. I'm talking about convents that, for decades, have been renting out rooms to travelers seeking something more than just a bed. There are no minibars or televisions here. There are cells with high ceilings, corridors of antique tile, and a scent of incense that follows you into your dreams.

Medellín has a religious history that few know about. During the colonial period and well into the 20th century, monastic orders built enormous cloisters in what is now the heart of the city. With modernization, many of these spaces became underutilized. Instead of selling them to developers, some religious communities decided to open their doors to guests. It's not a massive business. It's a way to keep tradition alive and, in the process, fund their social works.

For the spiritual traveler or the lover of living history, staying in a convent is an experience that no five-star hotel can match. You wake up to Gregorian chant, have breakfast in a centuries-old refectory, and walk through hallways that have seen generations of novices. But beware: it's not for everyone. There are unwritten rules, strict schedules, and a code of silence that must be respected.

In April 2026, as I write this, the offering of convent accommodation in Medellín remains a niche. But those who discover it, return. Here I tell you about the two most emblematic cases and how to live this experience without putting your foot in it.

Convento de las Agustinas (Center): Cells with Views of Colonial Gardens

On Calle 44 with Carrera 50, half a block from Parque Bolívar, stands the Convento de las Agustinas. It is a white-façade building with barred windows that goes unnoticed among the local shops. Inside, time stopped in the 19th century. A central garden with a stone fountain, corridors with fern pots, and a silence that contrasts with the city noise.

The Augustinian Recollect nuns began receiving guests in the 1980s, when the convent had more space than needed. Today they offer about 20 rooms, which they call "cells," although they are larger than the original ones. Each has a single or double bed, a simple wardrobe, and a private bathroom. No luxuries. But the window overlooks the garden, and in the mornings, light filters through the orange trees.

What makes this place special is the coexistence with the religious community. The nuns follow their routine: prayers at 5:30 am, mass at 7 am, work in the orchard, and embroidery workshops. Guests can join the religious services if they wish, but it is not mandatory. What is required is respect for the silence hours (no talking in the corridors after 9 pm) and not bringing food into the rooms.

The price per night is around $60,000 COP for a single cell, including breakfast. This is a reference price as of April 2026. It is recommended to call in advance, as the nuns do not have a website or online reservation system. Everything is done by phone or in person. The exact address is Calle 44 # 50-12, three blocks from the Parque Berrío metro station.

Fun fact: in the convent's basement, there is an old refectory with original 19th-century frescoes depicting scenes from the life of Santa Mónica. The nuns only show it if you ask politely and during the morning hours.

Monasterio Benedictino (East): Morning Choirs Included

If you move away from the center and head east of Medellín, in the El Poblado neighborhood, you will find the Monasterio Benedictino de la Virgen de la Candelaria. It is not in the historic heart, but on a hill overlooking the valley. The address is Carrera 43A # 7-50, near Parque El Poblado. Unlike the Agustinas, this monastery is more recent (built in the 1950s) and its architecture is Neo-Romanesque, with rounded arches and a bell tower visible from several blocks away.

The Benedictine monks opened their guesthouse in the 1990s, thinking of spiritual retreats. But over time, they began to receive regular travelers, as long as they respect the atmosphere of recollection. There are no televisions, no Wi-Fi in the rooms (signal is only available in the library), and meals are eaten in silence, except for the reading of a sacred text during lunch.

The most striking thing is waking up to the morning choir. At 6 am, the monks sing Lauds in the chapel. The sound rises through the vaults and seeps through the cell doors. No alarm clock can match it. Guests can attend the choir, but they must be in the chapel before it starts. Arriving late is considered bad form.

The rooms are more austere than at the Agustinas: iron beds, a wooden desk, and a crucifix on the wall. Not all have private bathrooms; some share a bathroom with three other cells. The price is $45,000 COP per night, without breakfast (but you can buy bread and coffee at the monastery store). There is also a full board option for $70,000 COP, which includes three meals prepared by the monks.

The Benedictines follow the Rule of Saint Benedict: "Ora et labora." So don't expect room service or 24-hour reception. Check-in is until 8 pm, and after that time, the porter does not open the door. If you arrive late, you'll have to find other accommodation. It is best to confirm times before going. It is recommended to call the number listed in the tourist guide of the Archdiocese of Medellín, as they do not have an official website for reservations.

Coexistence Protocols with Nuns

Staying in a convent is not like arriving at a hostel. There are unwritten rules that, if ignored, can earn you a disapproving look from the sister at the door. Here are the most important ones:

• Silence after 9 pm: In both convents, the audible curfew is sacred. No talking in the hallways, playing music, or making loud phone calls. If you need to talk, do so in your room with the door closed.
• Modest clothing: No shorts, miniskirts, or clothing with flashy prints in common areas. At the Agustinas, they may even ask you to wear a long skirt if you are a woman, although it is not mandatory. Better to wear clothes that cover shoulders and knees.
• No food in the rooms: The nuns and monks control food to avoid pests and maintain cleanliness. Everything is consumed in the refectory or in designated patios.
• Respect prayer times: If you are in a hallway during mass, walk on tiptoes. Do not use your cell phone in the chapel or take photos without permission. At the Benedictines, photographing the monks during the choir is prohibited.
• Do not touch religious objects without permission: Altars, images, and liturgical books are not decorations. If you want to see something up close, ask a religious person to show you.
• No tips, but donations yes: At the Agustinas, tips are not accepted. But there is a collection box for donations to the convent's social work. At the Benedictines, you can leave a contribution at the guestmaster's office.

A common mistake: thinking that because you pay, you can do whatever you want. That's not the case. You are in someone's home, and the home has owners who live there. Treat them with the same courtesy you would expect if someone came to your home.

How to Book Without Disturbing the Silence

Booking at these places is not like opening Booking.com. It has to be done with patience and, in many cases, with a phone call. Here is the step-by-step guide:

1. Identify the convent you are interested in: The Agustinas are ideal if you want to be in the historic center, near the Metropolitan Cathedral and the Museo de Antioquia. The Benedictines are better if you are looking for a spiritual retreat and nature.
2. Call by phone: They do not have email or WhatsApp for reservations. At the Agustinas, the number is the porter's (you can find it in the Archdiocese phone directory or by asking at the Cathedral reception). At the Benedictines, the number is registered on the Diocese of Medellín's website. If you can't get the number, you can go in person and ask.
3. Speak clearly and respectfully: Say you are a traveler and want to stay. Ask about availability and prices. Don't use slang or rush. The nuns and monks have their own pace.
4. Confirm arrival times: Especially at the Benedictines, where check-in closes at 8 pm. If you arrive after, they won't let you in.
5. Bring cash: They do not accept credit cards or transfers. At the Agustinas, payment is in cash upon arrival. At the Benedictines, you can pay at the end of your stay.
6. Respect the length of stay: At both places, the maximum stay is usually 3 to 5 nights. They are not hotels for long periods.
7. Don't book too far in advance: Religious communities do not plan months ahead. Call a week in advance, maximum two.

An extra tip: if you speak English, try to practice your basic Spanish. At the Agustinas, the older nuns do not speak English. At the Benedictines, some monks do, but it is not the norm. Bring a dictionary or an offline translation app.

Current Status

In April 2026, the offering of convent accommodation in Medellín remains small but stable. The Agustinas receive an average of 10 guests per night, mostly Colombians from other cities who come for religious tourism or by word of mouth. The Benedictines have a more constant flow of foreigners, especially Europeans and North Americans interested in silent retreats.

However, there are challenges. The lack of an online presence limits their reach. Many young travelers don't even know they exist. Furthermore, maintaining centuries-old buildings is expensive, and religious communities do not always have the resources for renovations. At the Agustinas, for example, the electrical installations are old and the air conditioners sometimes fail (there are few, as most cells only have fans).

On the other hand, spiritual tourism is growing in Medellín. More and more people are seeking authentic experiences, away from the noise of parties and reggaeton. The convents could be a magnet for this niche, if they manage to modernize their way of communicating without losing their essence. For now, they remain a secret shared among travelers who understand that luxury is not always in a hotel's stars, but in the peace of a cloister.

If you decide to venture, remember: you are not going to a spa. You are going to a place where time has a different rhythm. Where breakfast is served in silence and bells mark the hours. Where, if you are lucky, a nun will tell you the story of how she got there, and a monk will teach you how to prune a rose bush. That, my friend, cannot be paid for with a credit card.

Sleep Among Saints: the ultimate guide to overnighting in sacred silences. If you feel like it, bring a notebook to write. Because in those hallways, ideas come clearly, like the water from the garden fountain.

Origins

The history of convents in Medellín dates back to the colonial era, when the city began to establish itself as a religious and cultural center. These spaces not only served as refuges for monastic life but also played a crucial role in community life, offering education and assistance to the needy. Over time, many of these convents have survived urban transformations and have found new ways to interact with the modern community.

A fascinating aspect of the convents in Medellín is how some have opened their doors to travelers, offering a unique experience that blends spirituality, history, and hospitality. This opening not only allows visitors to appreciate colonial architecture and religious art but also provides the opportunity to learn about monastic life from a personal perspective.

Convento de San Diego

Located in the historic center, this convent is known for its impressive cloister and inner peace. Insider Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to attend one of its masses, where you can hear Gregorian chant, an experience that transcends the everyday.

Convento de las Hermanas Clarisas

This convent is famous for its delicious cookies and sweets made by the nuns. Insider Tip: Arrive early to buy their products, as they sell out quickly and make a perfect gift to take home.

Visiting these convents is not only a way to escape the city noise but also an opportunity to connect with the history and culture of Medellín in a way that few tourist experiences can offer.

Timeline or Historical Milestones

16th Century - Foundation of the First Convents

During this time, the first convents in Medellín were established, mainly by religious orders such as the Franciscans and Dominicans. These spaces were fundamental for the evangelization and education of the local population.

1782 - Convento de San Ignacio

This convent, which houses the Society of Jesus, stands out for its colonial architecture and rich educational history. Insider Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to attend one of the traditional masses, where Gregorian chant resonates within its walls. It is an experience that connects with the spirituality of the place.

1850 - Foundation of the Convento de la Presentación

Known for its contribution to the care of the needy, this convent has been a pillar in the social history of Medellín. Insider Tip: Ask about the community activities they carry out; participating in them can offer you a deeper perspective on current monastic life.

1920 - Revitalization of the Convento de San Agustín

This convent, although founded much earlier, experienced a significant revitalization in the 1920s. It became a cultural center that attracted intellectuals and artists. Insider Tip: Explore the temporary exhibitions frequently held in its cloister, where contemporary art dialogues with history.

2010 - Opening to Religious Tourism

Convents began to open their doors to tourists seeking different experiences. This initiative has allowed travelers to get a close-up look at monastic life. Insider Tip: Ask if they offer retreats or meditation workshops; they are unique opportunities to disconnect from the urban hustle and reconnect with yourself.

Key Figures or Events

Monasterio de San Pedro y San Pablo

This convent, founded in 1880, is a notable example of religious architecture in Medellín. It houses the nuns of the Order of Saint Augustine, who keep alive the tradition of silence and contemplation. Insider Tip: Visit their artisan sweet shop, where you can buy products made by the nuns, such as cookies and jams that make perfect souvenirs.

Convento de la Presentación

Located in the La Candelaria neighborhood, this convent is known for its impressive altar and its rich history dating back to the 18th century. A place where time seems to have stood still. Insider Tip: Attend Sunday masses, where you can hear Gregorian chants resonating in the air, creating a magical atmosphere.