The Monasterio de la Cartuja is a Carthusian monastery on the northern edge of Granada, in Andalusia, and an example of Spanish Baroque at its most elaborate. Building started in 1506 on land granted by the Great Captain, Gonzalo Fernández de Córdoba, and continued for three centuries. The cloister and the church are modest outside, but the interior is covered in white marble, stucco and paint. The sacristy, finished in the 18th century, is its highlight, a room of carved marble, inlaid wood and mirror-like surfaces. The sanctuary behind the high altar has a large painted dome. A series of paintings by the Carthusian lay brother Juan Sánchez Cotán is shown in the cloister. The monastery grounds are quiet, and the visit takes about 45 minutes. It is a short bus ride from the centre, which makes it easy to add to a morning plan.
| Admission | About €5 (~$5.75) adults; reduced rates apply |
|---|---|
| Hours | Daily about 10:00–18:00 (to 20:00 in summer; later start on Sundays) |
| Typical visit | 45–60 minutes |
| Best time | Weekday mornings; the sacristy is the highlight |
| Getting there | City bus towards Cartuja from the centre (check current lines at the Transportes Rober site); or a 30-minute walk from Gran Vía |
| Address | Paseo de Cartuja, s/n, 18011 Granada, Spain |
Location
Paseo de Cartuja, s/n, 18011 Granada, Spain
37.1930, -3.5993 View on map
Highlights
- Baroque sacristy in marble and inlaid wood
- Church sanctuary and painted dome
- Cloister with paintings by Sánchez Cotán
- Quiet gardens at the edge of the city
Tips for visiting
- Take a city bus or taxi to save the walk
- Visit before lunch; hours may close at midday in winter
- Photography is allowed without flash
- Combine with the nearby Parque Federico García Lorca
- Cover shoulders
When to visit
Weekday mornings.
Accessibility
The ground floor and sacristy are mostly step-free; the cloister has some steps.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
Is it worth the trip?
Yes, the sacristy is among the finest Baroque rooms in Spain.
Is it near the centre?
It is about 2 km north of Plaza Nueva.
Is the visit long?
About 45 minutes.