Monastery of Cartuja, Granada

Monastery in Granada

Granada Charterhouse view from the east. Granada Spain

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Ввласенко

Monastery of Cartuja is a former Carthusian monastery in Granada, Spain, set on the city's northern side near Paseo de Cartuja. It is a religious site and museum where the outer buildings are modest, but the main church and sanctuary spaces are heavily decorated with Baroque work, marble, gilding, and carved religious imagery.

The monastery matters for the contrast it shows between Carthusian austerity and the visual richness of its interiors. Visitors notice the central cloister, the church, the Sancta Sanctorum, the sacristy, and several smaller rooms that help explain monastic life here. It suits visitors interested in sacred art, architecture, and a quieter stop away from Granada’s busiest sights; others may find it best as a shorter visit.

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

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.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.7 (6,477)

Monasterio de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción "La Cartuja", on P.º de Cartuja in Beiro, is a sand‑colored monastery famed for lavish golden Baroque interiors and vibrant marbles; visitors say it’s impressive both inside and out, with rich historical artwork across multiple rooms and a church many call a hidden gem, easily reached from the city centre by short bus trip and often visited via the sightseeing route, while the exterior setting includes a small park, some souvenir stalls and a memorable sculptural detail above the main door.

Riku Ota

5 months ago

"The monastery was no longer active as a monastery anymore it seems but it is very beautiful and amazing architecture. It’s easy to access from Centrousing the bus number 8. There is a very cute cat in front of the main door. The monastery used to be a large as it shown in the replica but now remains just small part...."

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229murphm

11 months ago

"It is beautiful. Self-guided tour was really good. The history of the monastery is intriguing. Would definitely recommend."

River - Glad or Mad Australia

a year ago

"This monastery is really impressive. It is not far from the city centre, and you can easily get there by bus, which takes less than 15 minutes. Forme, it is one of the most beautiful monasteries I have seen. There is a lot to see and take in. The audio guide they provide is great, giving you lots of interesting information. And honestly, the photos speak for themselves. It is definitely worth a visit if you are in Granada...."

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Guilherme La a

9 months ago

"I went before it was open so I could only see the outside. I has a beautiful small park at th door and some souvenir shops. What got my attention wasthe statue on top of the front door which has baby head and hands (see pictures for details). Not sure if on purpose or if it was replaced somewhere in time. Would love to hear about the backstory on this...."

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Farooq Hassan

7 months ago

"Building is really nice with one of the most beautiful art work, historical artwork is also displayed, have different rooms with all the details ofChristian history...."

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Stephen Hall

a year ago

"This is one of the stops on the site seeing bus. Most people make the mistake of not getting off and missing this little gem hidden away. Veryimpressive church and only €6..."

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FAQs for Visiting the Monasterio de la Cartuja

Carthusian monks and lay brothers who followed strict rules of silence and contemplation.

The elaborate Baroque style reflects devotion to the Eucharist, contrasting with the monks’ personal austerity.

No-the original cloister and cells were destroyed in the 19th century.

Yes, it is one of the most visited and admired spaces in the monastery.

Around three kilometres, accessible by bus or taxi.

The Monastery of Cartuja appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Granada!

Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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