Monasterio de Santa Catalina de Sena

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The Monasterio de Santa Catalina de Sena was built in the 17th century atop of the Incan architectural complex, Aqllawasi, where aqllas (chosen women of noble Incan families) lived in confinement as wives of the sun and other Incan deities. Today, the monastery continues to house thirteen nuns, though a portion of the monastery has been converted into a museum documenting their day to day life. Confessionals, a workroom, chapter house, choir room and novitiate quarters replete with paintings, models and displays provide a well organized presentation of the monastic lifestyle. The museum also houses a colonial art gallery including three paintings attributed to Diego Tito Quispe, an exemplary 17th century artist of the Cusqueñan school of painting. The museum is open Monday through Saturday from 8:30am-5pm and Sundays from 2pm-5pm. Tickets are s/8 for adults (students pay half price) and a combined Monastery and Qoricancha ticket may be purchased for s/15.