Convento San Bernardo, Salta

Appreciate the mixture of colonial architecture and indigenous art at Convento San Bernardo. Considered the oldest religious landmark in Salta, the building originally served as a hermitage until sometime before or during the 17th century, although a loss of records has made it impossible to identify what year. In 1726, the building was redesignated as a hospital, before becoming a convent in 1846. Look for the complex's distinctive oak door, carved by indigenous artisans and installed in 1762. Unless you're a Carmenite nun, you unfortunately won't be allowed to enter; instead, walk around the exterior and pop into the gift shop selling icons and baked goods made by the nuns. Visitors can leave prayer requests in the convent's prayer wheel. With our online itinerary creator, Salta attractions like Convento San Bernardo can be center stage of your vacation plans, and you can find out about other attractions like it, unlike it, near it, and miles away.