San Pedro Claver Church & Museum
A 16th-century Jesuit church and museum honoring Saint Peter Claver, the 'Slave of the Slaves,' a beacon of compassion.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
San Pedro Claver Church & Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 16th-century Jesuit church and museum honoring Saint Peter Claver, the 'Slave of the Slaves,' a beacon of compassion.
"A remarkable historical and spiritual site, a highlight of any visit to Cartagena."
🧥 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders & knees out of respect for this sacred site. :pray:
💰 Guided Tour Value
Consider the guided tour for deeper historical context. Worth the extra cost! :moneywithwings:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Saint Peter Claver's Tomb
Beneath the main altar
See the preserved remains of the 'Slave of the Slaves,' a powerful symbol of compassion and advocacy.
Jesuit Architecture
Throughout the church and museum
Admire the enduring Spanish Colonial style, showcasing intricate details and historical craftsmanship.
Museum Artifacts
Museum section
Explore religious art, pre-Columbian ceramics, and items detailing Claver's impactful life.

Plaza San Pedro Claver
Outside the church
Experience the vibrant energy of this colonial square, perfect for reflection and people-watching.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Attire is Key
Consider a Guided Tour
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
[xpost from r/Catholicism] Last Monday, I had a chance to visit the Church of St. Peter Claver here in Cartagena.
🧥 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders & knees out of respect for this sacred site. :pray:
💰 Guided Tour Value
Consider the guided tour for deeper historical context. Worth the extra cost! :moneywithwings:
📸 Respectful Photography
Be mindful of services. Ask permission before photographing people. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Explore the Plaza
Enjoy the lively Plaza San Pedro Claver outside for a contrast of calm and energy. :park:
Tips
from all over the internet
🧥 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders & knees out of respect for this sacred site. :pray:
💰 Guided Tour Value
Consider the guided tour for deeper historical context. Worth the extra cost! :moneywithwings:
📸 Respectful Photography
Be mindful of services. Ask permission before photographing people. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Explore the Plaza
Enjoy the lively Plaza San Pedro Claver outside for a contrast of calm and energy. :park:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the San Pedro Claver Church & Museum as a historically significant and spiritually moving site in Cartagena. The church's interior beauty and the museum's artifacts are highlights, offering deep insights into Saint Peter Claver's legacy. Some note that the exterior is plain, and the guided tour is an additional cost, but most agree it's a worthwhile experience for understanding the city's past.
"A remarkable historical and spiritual site in Cartagena is the Santuario de San Pedro Claver. Originally called the Church of San Juan de Dios and built in Spanish Colonial style by the Jesuits between 1580 and 1654, it was later renamed in honor of Saint Peter Claver. A Spanish Jesuit priest, Claver devoted his life to caring for enslaved Africans, earning him the title “Slave of the Slaves.”
The exterior is plain and shows the age of the church, however, the interior is beautiful and well kept. The white walls allow the artwork and religious icons to really stand out. We would have spent more time in the glory of it all, but felt we were imposing on the baptismal service.
Outside, the vibrant Plaza San Pedro Claver is alive with energy, surrounded by colonial buildings and dotted with charming iron statues that portray local life. It’s a perfect place to pause, reflect, and enjoy the contrast between the city’s bustle and the sanctuary’s sense of calm and reverence. We spent about an hour taking it all in. It was truly one of the highlights of our visit to Cartagena."
Alex Pan
"It's a great experience if you're keen to learn about the African influence in Colombia. It would be way better if the ticket includes the guided tour, you need to pay extra for it, which is kinda disappointing."
Jhonny Andrés Pedraza
"We spent quite some time here exploring the architecture and aware of the very deep history. It was built by the Jesuits between 1580 and 1654 in the Spanish Colonial style and was originally known as the church of San Juan de Dios, but was later renamed to honor Saint Peter Claver, a Spanish Jesuit priest who dedicated his life to helping enslaved Africans arriving in Cartagena.
Saint Peter Claver (1580–1654) is known as the "Apostle of the Blacks" or the "Slave of the Slaves" for his compassionate ministry to enslaved people. He baptized around 300,000 slaves and indigenous people and is recognized as a patron saint of slaves, Colombia, and race relations. His remains are preserved in a glass coffin beneath the main altar of the church. It has a lot of architectural features and is more than a church because the complex includes a church, a monastery, and a museum with religious art, pre-Columbian ceramics, and artifacts related to Peter Claver's life."
Ross Daniels
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG), the easiest way is to take a taxi directly to the Old Town. The ride typically takes 15-25 minutes depending on traffic. Alternatively, you can arrange for a pre-booked shuttle service for convenience.
Yes, the church is centrally located in the historic Walled City of Cartagena, making it easily accessible on foot from many hotels and other landmarks like the Clock Tower or the Inquisition Palace.
The Old Town is best explored on foot. Taxis can drop you off at the perimeter, but walking is the most enjoyable way to navigate the charming streets and discover hidden gems on your way to the church.
The church is located in Plaza San Pedro Claver, which is easily accessible from multiple entry points into the Old Town. The Puerta del Reloj (Clock Tower Gate) is a common entry point, and from there, it's a pleasant walk through the historic streets.
While buses operate within Cartagena, they may not directly serve the heart of the Old Town where the church is located. Taxis or walking are generally more convenient for reaching this specific attraction.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the church itself is generally free, allowing visitors to admire its architecture and spiritual atmosphere. However, access to the museum and any special exhibits may require a separate ticket.
The museum typically has a modest entrance fee. It's advisable to check the official website or inquire on-site for the most current pricing, as it can change.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or children. It's recommended to inquire at the ticket counter or check their official information channels for any applicable concessions.
The church and museum generally have set operating hours, often closing for a siesta period in the afternoon. It's best to verify the current schedule online or upon arrival to avoid disappointment.
While some attractions offer online booking, it's not always standard for smaller historical sites like this. You can usually purchase tickets directly at the museum entrance.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Many visitors highly recommend a guided tour. Guides offer invaluable historical context about Saint Peter Claver's life and the church's significance, enriching the experience beyond just sightseeing.
Visiting the museum and taking a guided tour are the best ways to understand Saint Peter Claver's profound impact as the 'Slave of the Slaves.' His tomb is a central point of reverence.
Pay attention to the Spanish Colonial architecture, the beautiful interior with its white walls that highlight artwork, and the serene courtyard. The blend of historical styles is noteworthy.
The museum houses religious art, pre-Columbian ceramics, and artifacts directly related to Saint Peter Claver's life and ministry, offering a glimpse into the region's history and culture.
Yes, it is an active church. You might encounter services or religious events during your visit, which adds to the spiritual ambiance but may require respectful quiet.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Typically, there are no dining facilities directly within the church or museum complex itself. However, the surrounding Plaza San Pedro Claver and the Old Town are filled with numerous restaurants and cafes.
You'll find a wide variety of Colombian cuisine, from fresh seafood and traditional dishes like bandeja paisa to international options. Many places offer outdoor seating in the charming plazas.
Yes, while some restaurants in the main plazas can be pricier, exploring the side streets of the Old Town will reveal more affordable local eateries and street food vendors offering delicious snacks.
Absolutely. The plaza and surrounding streets are dotted with cafes and small shops where you can grab a coffee, a pastry, or a refreshing drink.
It's often convenient to have a meal or snack before or after your visit, especially if you plan to spend a significant amount of time exploring the church and museum. This allows you to fully immerse yourself without worrying about hunger.
📸 📸 Photography
The interior, with its white walls and religious art, offers beautiful shots. The courtyard with lush greenery and architectural details is also very photogenic. Be mindful of services.
Generally, photography is allowed in the church, but it's crucial to be respectful, especially during services. Flash photography might be prohibited in certain areas, and in the museum, specific rules may apply to protect artifacts.
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise or before sunset – offer beautiful, soft light for capturing the plaza and the church's exterior. Midday can be harsh due to direct sun.
Photographing the exterior of the church with the vibrant plaza life, or capturing details of the religious art and Claver's tomb inside, can be very impactful.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is useful for both interior shots and wider plaza views. A wide-angle lens can be great for capturing the church's architecture. A smartphone camera is also perfectly adequate for most visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ History Buffs & Culture Enthusiasts
🙏 Spiritual Seekers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Saint Peter Claver
Claver's work was extraordinary for its time. He would meet ships arriving with enslaved people, often in horrific conditions, and offer them comfort, basic medical care, and religious instruction. He is credited with baptizing an estimated 300,000 individuals and advocating tirelessly for their humane treatment, even when it put him at odds with colonial authorities. His remains are preserved in a glass coffin beneath the main altar of the church that now bears his name, serving as a perpetual reminder of his profound legacy.
Visiting the San Pedro Claver Church & Museum offers a tangible connection to this history. The museum displays artifacts related to his life and ministry, alongside pre-Columbian ceramics and religious art, providing a comprehensive understanding of the era and Claver's pivotal role. His story is a crucial part of understanding the African diaspora's influence on Colombia and the broader Caribbean.
Architectural Significance and Museum Collections
Beyond the church itself, the adjacent museum is a treasure trove of historical and cultural artifacts. Visitors can explore a collection of religious art that spans centuries, offering insights into the artistic expressions of faith in the region. Complementing this are displays of pre-Columbian ceramics, showcasing the rich indigenous heritage that predates the colonial period. The museum's most poignant exhibits, however, are those dedicated to Saint Peter Claver, featuring personal effects and documents that illuminate his extraordinary life and humanitarian efforts.
The courtyard of the complex provides a tranquil oasis, often featuring lush vegetation and architectural details that invite quiet contemplation. It's a space where the historical weight of the site can be felt amidst a sense of peace. The combination of the church's spiritual ambiance and the museum's historical depth makes for a compelling and educational visit.
Experiencing Plaza San Pedro Claver
Surrounding the plaza are other significant colonial buildings, adding to its historical charm. You'll often find charming iron statues scattered throughout the plaza, depicting scenes of local life and culture, which make for interesting photo opportunities and add to the visual narrative of the space. It's a perfect spot to pause, observe the daily rhythm of Cartagena, and soak in the ambiance before or after your visit to the church and museum.
Many visitors find the plaza to be an ideal place to relax, perhaps with a refreshing drink from a nearby cafe, and reflect on the historical and spiritual significance of the site. The contrast between the bustling plaza and the serene interior of the church offers a well-rounded experience of this important Cartagena landmark.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit