All the rooms of the Carthusian Monastery in Granada

Discover its spaces, history, and art

The Charterhouse Monastery of Granada, also known as the Monastery of Our Lady of the Assumption, stands as one of the finest examples of Andalusian and Spanish Baroque architecture. Its monumental beauty, combined with an atmosphere of spiritual retreat, makes it a must-visit for those interested in Granada’s religious and artistic heritage.

In this article, we explore all the halls and spaces of the Charterhouse Monastery, including its architecture and rich symbolism. If you wish to explore it in depth, don’t hesitate to book your ticket at ticketsgranadacristiana.com and enjoy the Granata Christiana Pack to visit other iconic landmarks.

The Courtyard: gateway to monastic life

The courtyard (compás) serves as a transition space between the outer world and monastic life. Visitors enter through a 16th-century doorway designed by Juan García de Prada, reached by ascending a double staircase of Sierra Elvira marble, the work of Cristóbal de Vílchez.

This stone-paved space is a hallmark of 17th-century Granada craftsmanship, preparing visitors for the spiritual and artistic experience inside.

The Cloister and communal rooms

The cloister organises the monastery’s communal life. Key rooms include:

• Refectory: a simple vaulted hall adorned with paintings by Fray Juan Sánchez Cotán.
• Sala Profundis: used by monks for prayer before meals.
• Chapter House for Lay Brothers: the oldest part of the complex, originally used as a church.
• Monks’ Chapter House: decorated with works by Vicente Carducho.
• Church: the spiritual heart of the monastery, detailed below.

The Church

The church consists of a single nave, with a richly decorated Baroque ceiling in white plasterwork. Construction began in the 16th century under Cristóbal de Vílchez and was completed in 1662.

Its three distinct sections were designed for:

• Lay worshippers.
• Lay brothers.
• Monks.

Though four towers were planned, only one was built. Inside, artworks by Sánchez Cotán stand out as invaluable treasures.

The Sanctuary: a masterpiece of Baroque scenography

The sanctuary of the Charterhouse is one of its most breathtaking areas. It unites architecture, sculpture, and painting in a theatrical and spiritually immersive setting.

Materials such as colourful marbles, gilded details, curtains, and an imposing central tabernacle act as a stone custodia. The design draws the eye upward, evoking spiritual ascension.

The Sacristy: a temple within a temple

Built in 1732, likely following a plan by Hurtado Izquierdo, the sacristy is remarkable for its spaciousness and refined architecture. The rhomboid floor design and the interplay of volumes in walls and ceilings create an atmosphere of contemplation.

Abstract and geometric stucco shapes create stunning visual effects. More than a sacristy, it feels like a full-fledged Baroque temple.

An experience to enjoy with Tickets Granada Cristiana

If you haven’t yet visited the Charterhouse Monastery, now is the perfect time. On our website, you can book your tickets or take advantage of the Granata Christiana Pack, which includes access to several major religious monuments in Granada.

We also recommend the documentary film directed by Óscar Parada, available on our website. By purchasing access, you help fund the installation of a lift to improve accessibility for visitors with reduced mobility.