Sant Agusti Convent

Ciutadella de Menorca, Spain

The 17th-century Convent of Sant Agusti, in the heart of Ciutadella, is still used as a residence for a community of nuns while also being a cultural focal point for the public at large because it houses the Diocesan Museum.

The Church of Socorro (Solace), alongside the cloister, is built in the Renaissance style, with one single nave and side chapels, covered by a barrel vault and a transept topped with a dome. The facade, defined by its two twin towers, reveals a late 18th-century gateway, with three gates opening onto a great atrium, decorated with the emblems of the Augustinian order and crowned by Our Lady of Perpetuo Socorro. It was heavily refurbished during that period, with the construction of the main reredoses, the organ and the interior decoration, which left the vaults, dome and walls covered with fresco murals.

The devastation suffered during the Civil War led to the destruction of the reredoses and the other liturgical furniture. Meanwhile, over the decades during which it was closed or used for a whole range of functions it suffered ever worsening deterioration, a process which has been arrested over the last 15 years by embarking on the costly and complex task of restoration and refurbishment now in progress. Nonetheless, only a few fragments remain. The Baroque organ was built in 1793 by the Catalan master craftsman Josep Casas i Soler, was destroyed in the Civil War, and recently rebuilt by the team of organ maker Albert Blancafort. The choir retains its beautiful walnut seating with marquetry ornamentation.

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Details

Founded: 17th century
Category: Religious sites in Spain

More Information

www.menorca.es

Rating

5/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

David Currie (8 months ago)
Haven of tranquility Beautiful courtyard garden and cloisters with lots of fascinating artworks and historical artefacts in the museum and galleries within the cloisters. Ideal for an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The mix of birdsong in the garden and some classical music played over the PA adds to the tranquil nature of this little haven. Don't miss out on wandering into the cloisters and discovering all the rooms and the stunning chapel. A ticket for the convent and the cathedral costs only 7 euros and can be used repeatedly throughout your stay. Also handy for using the loos!
Manuel García Roldán (5 years ago)
Highly recommended, especially the visit with the guide Josep who has been completely exceptional.
Philip (5 years ago)
Beautiful, peaceful building, well worth a look along with the cathedral.
Ewa Sara Lewandowska (6 years ago)
So Super place.
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