Cartuja Monastery (Monasterio de la Cartuja)
The Basics
The lavish interior of this Carthusian monastery, also known as Monasterio de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción and Granada Charterhouse, has earned it a reputation as the Christian answer to the magnificent Alhambra. Due to its location on the outskirts of the city, the monastery is often overlooked by visitors to Granada, though some historical tours will make a stop here, along with the Cathedral and Royal Chapel and the Albaicin, a UNESCO-listed Arab quarter.
Things to Know Before You Go
La Cartuja Monastery, off the beaten path, offers a quiet escape from the city center.
Remember to dress conservatively, as this remains an active place of worship.
Video and photography are not permitted within the monastery.
How to Get There
The Cartuja Monastery is located about 2 miles (3 kilometers) from the Granada city center. The best way to get there is to take city buses N7, U1, U2, or U3 to either the Science Education or Paseo de Cartuja stops. It’s also possible to hire a taxi from the city center.
Trip ideas
When to Get There
The monastery is open daily, with reduced hours on Saturdays. Plan to visit on a weekday to avoid lines at the ticket office.
Who Are the Carthusians?
Founded in France during the 11th century, the Carthusians were a group of monks who manifested their devotion with strict vows of silence and fasting. The Carthusian monks who lived in the Monasterio de la Cartuja had a rather humble life; they practiced silence, ate simple vegetarian fare, and spent their time praying, studying, working, and making rosary beads from rose petals (which you can still buy at the souvenir shop). Only five of the original 24 Carthusian monasteries of Spain remain.
- Albaicín
- Ermita de San Miguel Alto
- Mirador de San Nicolás
- San Jeronimo Monastery (Monasterio de San Jerónimo)
- Hammam Al Andalus Granada
- Paseo de los Tristes
- Plaza Nueva
- Royal Chapel of Granada (Capilla Real)
- Alcaicería
- Plaza Bib Rambla
- Palace of Charles V (Palacio de Carlos V)
- Baños Árabes (Arab Baths)
- Alhambra (Alhambra de Granada)
- Generalife Gardens
- Sacromonte