Monastery of Cartuja, Granada
Monastery in Granada
The Monasterio de la Cartuja rises quietly on a northern hill of Granada, far from the crowds of the Alhambra and city centre. Its serene exterior hides a breathtaking Baroque interior that has earned it a reputation as one of the most spectacular Carthusian monasteries in Spain. Despite the order's austere and contemplative nature, the monastery's church and sanctuaries are strikingly lavish, making it one of the top attractions in Granada and a highlight of any walking tour of Granada.
Built beginning in 1506 and expanded over three centuries, the site served as a spiritual retreat for the Carthusian monks, whose strict practices of silence, fasting, and solitude shaped their daily lives. Today the monastery stands as a museum of sacred art, architecture, and the extraordinary craftsmanship of the Baroque era.
Table of Contents
- History and Significance of the Monasterio de la Cartuja
- Things to See and Do at the Monasterio de la Cartuja
- How to Get to the Monasterio de la Cartuja
- Practical Tips on Visiting the Monasterio de la Cartuja
- Where to Stay Close to the Monasterio de la Cartuja
- Is the Monasterio de la Cartuja Worth Visiting?
- FAQs for Visiting the Monasterio de la Cartuja
- Nearby Attractions to the Monasterio de la Cartuja
History and Significance of the Monasterio de la Cartuja
The monastery stands on what was once a Roman cemetery. In 1506, land was granted by the Great Captain to the Carthusian order to establish a new monastic complex outside Granada’s medieval walls. Construction began in 1516 and continued for three centuries, though the full project was never completed. In 1836, during the disentailment, much of the monastic property—including the cloister and monks’ cells—was destroyed.
The order itself is among the strictest in Christendom. Founded in 11th-century France by St Bruno, the Carthusians emphasised silence, solitary prayer, and rigorous fasting. The Granada monastery housed both monks and lay brothers, each following strict rules of contemplation and discipline.
Despite later losses, the remaining structures—particularly the church, the Sancta Sanctorum, and the sacristy—preserve some of the finest examples of Spanish Baroque design.
Things to See and Do at the Monasterio de la Cartuja
Entering through a simple patio, visitors arrive at the central cloister, a peaceful space with a small fountain and four orange trees. Around its edges are three tiny chapels filled with remarkably intricate sculptures and religious decoration.
The church is the heart of the complex, divided into three zones. The presbytery contains dramatic altarpieces and works by Sánchez Cotán, a master of Spanish realism. The Sancta Sanctorum, separated by a Venetian glass gate, is the most breathtaking space of all—lavishly decorated by Francisco Hurtado Izquierdo between 1704 and 1720. Here, golden statues, cherubs, and swirling marble surround a magnificent tabernacle upheld by black columns.
The sacristy, created by the same architect, offers a stark visual contrast. Its dark tones and solemn atmosphere reflect the monks’ austere lifestyle.
Adjacent to the central areas are the Refectory and the Sala de San Pedro y Pablo. The former was the communal dining room, and the latter a small space once housing a fountain where monks washed before meals. The Old Chapel and the Sala Capitular, where the monks met to govern community affairs, hold artworks by Sánchez Cotán and Carducho.
Before leaving, step outside to admire the panoramic view from the entrance steps—a sweeping vista of Granada, the university district, and the surrounding hills.
How to Get to the Monasterio de la Cartuja
The monastery is located around three kilometres north of Granada's city centre. The nearest airport is Federico García Lorca Granada-Jaén Airport. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Granada on Booking.com.
Granada's train station is well connected to Málaga, Seville, and Madrid, making it easy to incorporate a visit to the monastery into a wider journey through Andalusia. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.
If arriving by car, you can drive up to the monastery area, but parking is limited in the surrounding streets. If you are looking to rent a car in Spain I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.
City buses N7, U1, U2, and U3 stop near the monastery. The best stops are “Science Education” or “Paseo de Cartuja.” A taxi from the city centre costs approximately €6–8.
Practical Tips on Visiting the Monasterio de la Cartuja
- Suggested tips: Take time in the Sancta Sanctorum—the detail is overwhelming and rewards slow observation.
- Best time to visit: Mid-morning, when the church interior is well lit.
- Entrance fee: €5.00, Up to 12 years free / students up to 25 years € 3.50
- Opening hours: Summer: 10:00-13:00 and 16:00-20:00
Winter: 10:00-13:00 and 15:00-18:00 - Official website: https://entradasgratuitas.diocesisgranada.es/
- How long to spend: 45 minutes to an hour.
- Accessibility: Some uneven steps and narrow passageways may be challenging for wheelchair users.
- Facilities: Limited on-site facilities; cafés and shops are available near the university district.
- Photography tip: Look upward in the Sancta Sanctorum to capture its swirling gold and marble detail.
- Guided tours: Some tours combine the monastery with the nearby Royal Hospital or university area.
- Nearby food options: Traditional eateries and student cafés along Paseo de Cartuja.
Where to Stay Close to the Monasterio de la Cartuja
For a peaceful stay near northern Granada, consider Hotel Allegro Granada. Closer to the historic centre, Granada Five Senses Rooms & Suites offers comfort and style. A boutique choice nearby is Catalonia Granada.
Is the Monasterio de la Cartuja Worth Visiting?
Yes—its ornate Baroque interiors, powerful spiritual atmosphere, and fascinating monastic history make it one of Granada's most impressive and underrated sites. It offers a very different experience from the Alhambra and is essential for history lovers and architecture enthusiasts.
FAQs for Visiting the Monasterio de la Cartuja
Who lived in the monastery?
Carthusian monks and lay brothers who followed strict rules of silence and contemplation.
Why is the interior so richly decorated?
The elaborate Baroque style reflects devotion to the Eucharist, contrasting with the monks’ personal austerity.
Is the cloister still intact?
No—the original cloister and cells were destroyed in the 19th century.
Can you visit the Sancta Sanctorum?
Yes, it is one of the most visited and admired spaces in the monastery.
How far is it from the city centre?
Around three kilometres, accessible by bus or taxi.
Nearby Attractions to the Monasterio de la Cartuja
- Royal Hospital of Granada: A landmark Renaissance building nearby.
- Paseo de Cartuja: Lively area near the university.
- Albaicín: A historic district of winding streets and viewpoints.
- Mirador de San Cristóbal: A stunning viewpoint overlooking the city.
- Plaza de Toros de Granada: The city's neo-Mudéjar bullring.
The Monastery of Cartuja appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Granada!
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Visiting Monastery of Cartuja
Summer: 10:00-13:00 and 16:00-20:00
Winter: 10:00-13:00 and 15:00-18:00
€5.00, Up to 12 years free / students up to 25 years € 3.50
Nearby Attractions
- Plaza Larga (1.2) km
Market and Square in Granada - Palacio de Dar-Al-Horra (1.2) km
Palace in Granada - Albaicín (1.3) km
Area in Granada - Church Of San Salvador (1.3) km
Church in Granada - Mirador de San Nicolás (1.4) km
Viewing Point in Granada - Arab Baths of Granada (1.6) km
Baths in Granada - Puerta de los Tablero (1.7) km
Bridge, City Gate and City Walls in Granada - Paseo de los Tristes (1.7) km
Park in Granada - Catedral de Granada (1.7) km
Cathedral in Granada - Royal Chapel of Granada (1.7) km
Church and Tomb in Granada
