Convent Cloister of the Recollect Augustinians

The construction of the Convent of San Agustín in Valdefuentes began in May 1634 and suffered various interruptions until its completion in 1721. Over time, it has received care and restorations, especially in its cloister, allowing visitors today to admire this complex that was known as the "little Escorial" due to its monumental nature within the austerity typical of monastic life. It was founded in 1663 by Alfonso Lancaster, the 1st Duke of Abrantes, and Ana de Sande, the 2nd Marchioness of Valdefuentes, and belonged to the Order of the Augustinian Recollects. The church features a single nave divided into two sections, with a transept and a straight presbytery. Above the center of the transept rises a semi-spherical dome on pendentives, which adds solemnity to the space. Its altarpiece is notable for its great ornamental richness, with gilding made from genuine gold leaf. Attached to the side of the Epistle is the restored cloister, with a square floor plan and galleries with four semicircular arches. It is a true gem of stonework, featuring a central cistern in its garden and a courtyard decorated with sgraffito of religious emblems and plant motifs. The building was acquired by the City Council, and currently, part of its former grounds house the City Hall, the Civil Guard barracks, the Peace Court, and the House of Culture. There is the possibility of a guided tour of the convent and the ethnographic museum, by appointment and lasting approximately 1 hour. Visiting hours: Friday (afternoon), Saturdays and Sundays (morning): - Winter: 09:00–14:00 / 17:00–19:00 - Summer: 09:00–14:00 / 19:00–21:00 Other days: inquire