"The Convento de Santa Clara in Carmona breathes ancient history and tranquil beauty, where the stone walls whisper of times gone by and time seems to stand still."

Poor Clares: A Life of Seclusion

The monastery is home to the Poor Clares, an order of Franciscan nuns who live according to the principles of poverty, charity, and devotion. Since its founding, the monastery has received many donations, including a significant contribution from Beatriz Pacheco, Duchess of Arcos, in 1511.

Construction and Influences

The construction of the monastery took place between the late 15th and early 16th centuries. This is reflected in the church’s architecture, which features a rectangular nave with a wooden Mudéjar ceiling. The choir is adorned with a Gothic ribbed vault, showcasing Christian architectural influences from that period.

In the 17th century, the choir was given a Baroque appearance with gilded decorations. The main altarpiece, designed by Felipe Ribas in 1645, is one of the highlights. Additionally, the monastery houses Moorish tiles from the 16th century and paintings from the 17th century, possibly created by followers of Zurbarán.

Features of the Monastery

The monastery has a square structure with two floors, connecting various spaces. The entrance is located on the north wall and is accessed through the compás (entrance courtyard). Another striking element is the 18th-century watchtower, which is taller than the church tower and features a four-sided gabled roof, characteristic of the Baroque style.

El Torno: Traditional Sweets

A unique aspect of the monastery is El Torno, where the Poor Clares prepare handmade sweets. Visitors can buy traditional treats such as Arabic pastries, sponge cakes, meringues, and English cake. In the past, purchases were made through a revolving hatch to maintain the nuns' seclusion, but today, the sweets are available directly at the reception.