Museo del Carmen Alto
Explore a former convent, discover eerie mummies in crypts, and marvel at religious art. A unique historical and cultural journey.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Museo del Carmen Alto
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a former convent, discover eerie mummies in crypts, and marvel at religious art. A unique historical and cultural journey.
"This is a hidden gem in Quito! We just loved it! "
🎯 Book a Guided Tour
Highly recommended for deeper insights into the history and art. Ask for Natalia for an excellent English tour!
📸 Photography Encouraged
Capture the beauty of the art and architecture; photos are welcomed inside.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Crypts and Mummies
Underground chambers
Explore the eerie crypts and discover the preserved mummies of former nuns. A truly unique and chilling experience.
Art and Restoration
Exhibition halls
Marvel at exquisite religious art, some in various stages of restoration, offering glimpses into anonymous artists' lives.
Nuns' Daily Life Exhibits
Former convent cells
Gain insight into the secluded lives of Carmelite nuns through detailed exhibits and artifacts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Unlock the Secrets of El Carmen
Timing is Everything
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book a Guided Tour
Highly recommended for deeper insights into the history and art. Ask for Natalia for an excellent English tour! +1
📸 Photography Encouraged
Capture the beauty of the art and architecture; photos are welcomed inside.
💰 Value for Money
While some find it pricey, many agree the unique exhibits and tours offer great value.
🤫 Respect the Silence
Remember that nuns still reside here; maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book a Guided Tour
Highly recommended for deeper insights into the history and art. Ask for Natalia for an excellent English tour! +1
📸 Photography Encouraged
Capture the beauty of the art and architecture; photos are welcomed inside.
💰 Value for Money
While some find it pricey, many agree the unique exhibits and tours offer great value.
🤫 Respect the Silence
Remember that nuns still reside here; maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Museo del Carmen Alto is often described as a hidden gem, offering a unique and educational experience, particularly through its guided tours. Visitors are impressed by the insights into the lives of Carmelite nuns and the historical art, though some find the admission price a bit high for the size of the museum. The crypts are a standout, albeit somber, feature. +1
"What a wonderful surprise to come across this hidden gem of a museum during my exploration of Centro Histórico. I really didn't know what to expect, but I was really impressed by how interesting and educational this museum was! My guide, Natalia, was phenomenal. Although the marvelous guided tour she provided was in Spanish, she spoke slowly and clearly for me so that I understood 100% of what she said with my moderate level of Spanish. I knew nothing about the lives of the nuns who lived within these walls and was fascinated by how they carried out their day-to-day activities. There are some amazing works of art in various stages of restoration (the pandemic has hindered the process) by anonymous artists - but to learn why they remain anonymous you have to visit! Tours last about an hour and this former convent provides for some great photo opportunities. Taking photos is actually encouraged and I took many. Overall, I was immensely impressed by this museum and HIGHLY recommend adding it to any itinerary while visiting Quito. Ask for Natalia for her amazing tour and intriguing insights into this fascinating place. You won't be disappointed!"
Robert Blackie
"It might not be the most impressive convent by size or architecturally, but the museum has very interesting exhibition on migration, on women's role, etc., the overall message is very positive. And I loved the sweets from there."
L L
"Nothing interesting here and 8.$ for such a museum is juest a waste of time and money!! 👎🏾"
Zana Suran
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Museo del Carmen Alto is located in Quito, Ecuador, a short walk from Independence Square. Taxis or ride-sharing services are convenient options.
Yes, it's centrally located in Quito's historic center, making it accessible for most visitors.
Walking from nearby attractions like Independence Square is recommended. Otherwise, a taxi or bus is suitable.
Parking in the historic center can be challenging. It's advisable to use public transport or taxis.
Yes, several bus routes pass through the historic center, making it accessible via public transport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The museum is typically open Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It's always best to check their official website for the most current hours.
Admission is around $80.00 pesos, though some reviews mention different prices. Sundays are often free for Mexican nationals, and there are discounts for students and teachers.
Yes, discounts are available for students, teachers, and individuals with disabilities. Sundays are often free for Mexican citizens.
While not always mandatory, booking in advance, especially for guided tours, is recommended to secure your spot.
For Mexican nationals, Sundays are often free. It's advisable to confirm this policy before your visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the crypts with mummies, view religious art, learn about the lives of Carmelite nuns, and see exhibits on migration and women's roles. +1
Yes, guided tours are highly recommended. They offer in-depth information and are available in Spanish and sometimes English. +1
Photography is generally encouraged inside the museum, allowing you to capture the art and historical setting.
The museum offers educational exhibits that can be interesting for older children, but the crypts might be unsettling for very young ones.
A visit, especially with a guided tour, usually lasts about an hour.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there isn't a full restaurant, some visitors have enjoyed sweets from the museum shop.
The surrounding historic center of Quito offers a wide variety of restaurants and cafes serving local and international cuisine.
It's generally best to consume food and drinks outside the museum to preserve the exhibits.
Quito's culinary scene is diverse, and you'll find many restaurants offering vegetarian and vegan dishes in the vicinity.
Try traditional Ecuadorian dishes like Llapingachos, Seco de Chivo, or Empanadas from local eateries.
📸 📸 Photography
The crypts, the art-filled halls, and the architectural details of the former convent offer excellent photo opportunities.
While general photography is encouraged, it's always wise to check for specific restrictions on flash photography to protect the artwork.
A camera with good low-light capabilities is beneficial for the crypts, while a versatile lens is useful for capturing both art and architecture.
Drone photography is generally not permitted inside historical sites or museums.
The contrast between the serene convent spaces and the somber crypts, along with the detailed religious art, makes for striking photographs.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ History Buffs
🎨 Art Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Crypts: A Journey into the Past
Exploring these chambers requires a sense of respect for the deceased. While photography is generally allowed, it's important to be mindful of the solemn nature of the space. The crypts are a significant part of the museum's narrative, offering a unique historical perspective that sets Museo del Carmen Alto apart from other cultural institutions.
Guided Tours: Unlocking Hidden Stories
Opting for a guided tour is particularly recommended for those with a moderate understanding of Spanish, as guides can tailor their explanations. For English speakers, confirming tour availability in advance is crucial. The insights gained from a knowledgeable guide can transform a casual visit into a deeply educational and memorable one, helping visitors appreciate the nuances of the museum's collection and the history it represents.
Art and Restoration: A Legacy in Progress
Interestingly, some of the most compelling works are by anonymous artists. The reasons behind their anonymity are part of the intriguing narratives shared during guided tours, adding another layer of mystery and historical depth to the collection.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit