With its grandiose church, opulent façade and majestic two-story cloister, San Esteban Convent is one of Salamanca's most beautiful pieces of architecture. This religious complex has been an important center of study and theology for the Dominican Order for hundreds of years and still houses a monastic community.
Marvel at the craftsmanship of the church's façade, which is framed by a triumphal arch. The style is Plateresque, a Spanish architectural movement that was popular in the 15th and 16th centuries. The reliefs of the upper part depict Christ dying on the cross while below them is a representation of the martyrdom of San Esteban, or St. Stephen, the patron saint of the church.
Once inside, begin your tour on the lower level. Visit the church and explore its side chapels. See a 17th-century statue of St. John the Baptist, a Renaissance tomb and the confessional where St. Teresa of Ávila, also called St. Teresa of Jesus, historically confessed her sins.
Appreciate the artistry of the altarpieces in the Chapel of the Rosary. The church's main altar also features a stunning altarpiece, a Baroque work of art created toward the end of the 17th century. Stroll around the 16th-century Cloister of the Kings, pausing to look at the pillars adorned with plaques of Old Testament prophets.
Continue your tour in the convent’s upper level. Stand next to the choir for a closer look at the carved wooden chairs. See the large fresco from the early 18th century, which features symbolic depictions of the virtues of courage, justice, prudence, temperance, faith, hope and love. Inside the Museum of Esteban, study the sculptures, liturgical robes and gold and silverware.
This captivating religious attraction is located on the Plaza del Concilio de Trento in the heart of Salamanca, a short walk from the cathedrals and the main square. San Esteban Covent is open daily and charges a fee for admission, which is discounted for students and senior citizens age 65 and over.
