Ancient Spanish Monastery
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Ancient Spanish Monastery

4.6
·2k reviews·North Miami Beach, United States

A 900-year-old Spanish monastery, meticulously rebuilt in Miami, offering a glimpse into medieval history and a fairytale setting.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
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Ancient Spanish Monastery

Ancient Spanish Monastery

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A 900-year-old Spanish monastery, meticulously rebuilt in Miami, offering a glimpse into medieval history and a fairytale setting.

4.6
(2k reviews)

"It's a real-life fairytale setting with a thousand-year-old monastery just chilling in Miami."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

Capture stunning shots during golden hour; the light is magical!

🐾 Support Stray Cats

Donate to help feed the monastery's beloved feline residents.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Cloisters

The Cloisters

Central Courtyard

Wander through these serene, ancient stone arches, a breathtaking architectural marvel.

Instagram
The Labyrinth

The Labyrinth

Garden Area

Embark on a peaceful journey through this meditative maze, a unique spiritual experience.

Instagram
The Monastery Architecture

The Monastery Architecture

Throughout the grounds

Marvel at the 900-year-old Spanish stones, meticulously reassembled into a stunning structure.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for Photos

Visit during the golden hours for stunning photos. Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds, making it ideal for capturing the monastery's ancient beauty. TikTok

Donations Support the Sanctuary

This historic site is also a sanctuary for stray cats. Consider making a donation to help feed and care for these feline residents, a heartwarming aspect of the visit. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The Ancient Spanish Monistary In North Miami Beach Is Considered To Be The Oldest Building In The United States #oldestbuilding #history #miamibeach #florida
@zackfaunce
63.7K likes • 635.6K views

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

Capture stunning shots during golden hour; the light is magical! TikTokInstagram

🐾 Support Stray Cats

Donate to help feed the monastery's beloved feline residents. Reddit

A real life fairytale 🤍 #weddingcontentcreator #weddingcontent #weddinginspo #miamiwedding #destinationwedding #2025bride #2026bride #miamiweddings #2025wedding #spanishmonastery
@btsbybianca
35K likes • 188.9K views
A thousand-year-old monastery… just chillin’ in Miami. The Ancient Spanish Monastery was originally built in Spain in the 1100s, then shipped stone by stone to Florida and rebuilt brick by brick. Weddings, peaceful gardens, and yes—there’s a labyrinth. You’ve got to see it to believe it. Details: 📍 Ancient Spanish Monastery 16711 West Dixie Highway, North Miami Beach, FL ⏰ Hours: 10 AM – 4:30 PM...
thefloridatribe
611 likes • 12.6K views

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Labyrinth

Find peace and quiet in the meditative labyrinth. Instagram

💧 Stay Hydrated

Florida heat can be intense; bring water, especially for exploring. :droplet:

Details here👇🏼 . Believe it or not, this monastery is nearly 900 years old and still standing tall. It’s the oldest building in the Western Hemisphere and it is part of the original monastery in Sacramenia, Spain completed in 1141 AD. The most interesting fact is it was dismantled and reassembled like a huge 3D puzzle once it arrived in South Florida in 1952. . The Ancient Spanish Monastery 📍 1671...
thesofloduo
5.9K likes • 110.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

Capture stunning shots during golden hour; the light is magical! TikTokInstagram

🐾 Support Stray Cats

Donate to help feed the monastery's beloved feline residents. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Labyrinth

Find peace and quiet in the meditative labyrinth. Instagram

💧 Stay Hydrated

Florida heat can be intense; bring water, especially for exploring. :droplet:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors are consistently impressed by the Ancient Spanish Monastery's unique historical significance and stunning beauty, calling it a 'hidden gem' and a 'fairytale' location. The architecture, cloisters, and labyrinth are frequently praised, making it ideal for photography and special events. Some note the presence of stray cats, for whom donations are welcomed, adding a compassionate element to the visit.

"The old monastery where we recently photographed a wedding truly impressed us with its atmosphere. It’s a stunning historical location with a special energy — the perfect setting for a photoshoot.

Every corner is filled with timeless charm: ancient walls, arches, and architectural details create a breathtaking backdrop for romantic and elegant shots.

Our team had such a great experience working there. The photos turned out absolutely beautiful — places like this are so inspiring!
We definitely recommend it for weddings and timeless-style sessions."

TOP PICTURES

"It's a very unique place. The monastery is not big but very beautiful. Originally, it was constructed in Spain, and much later, part of it was moved to Florida. Amazing place for special events! Ladies on entrance are so sweet and welcoming. Please don’t forget to donate for cats as there are a lot of street cats in the monastery and stuff looking after them!"

elena korobova

"Interested in photography and history? Look no more. This place is stunning. Very easy to access, a decent collection and plenty of land to wonder and explore.

My favorite part is that they collect donations to feed the stray cats that wonder through the property."

Rocío Serrano

What People Like

Stunning historical architecture
Peaceful cloisters and gardens
Unique wedding venue

What People Dislike

Can get crowded
Limited food options on-site

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Ancient Spanish Monastery is located at 16711 West Dixie Highway, North Miami Beach, FL 33160. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. If using ride-sharing services, input the full address. Public transportation options might be limited, so driving or ride-sharing is often recommended. Instagram

Yes, there is parking available at the Ancient Spanish Monastery. It's generally sufficient for visitors, but can fill up during peak times or special events. TikTok

From Miami, driving is the most straightforward way to reach the Spanish Monastery. You can also use ride-sharing apps like Uber or Lyft. Public transport might involve multiple bus transfers and a longer travel time. Reddit

Yes, it's relatively easy to find with GPS. It's situated in North Miami Beach, and the address 16711 West Dixie Highway is accurate. Instagram

Walking to the monastery depends heavily on your starting point. If you are staying very close by, it might be feasible, but generally, it's best accessed by car or ride-sharing due to its location. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission fees can vary, and it's always best to check their official website or call ahead for the most current pricing. Sometimes, special events like Free Museum Day offer free admission. Instagram

Opening hours can change, so it's recommended to check the official website for the most up-to-date information. They are typically open during weekdays and weekends, but may have different hours for events or holidays. Instagram

For general visits, booking in advance is usually not required, but it's a good idea to check their website, especially if you plan to visit during a busy period or for a special event. TikTok

Absolutely! The monastery is a popular spot for photoshoots, including weddings and engagement sessions, due to its stunning historical architecture and serene atmosphere. InstagramReddit

Yes, the Ancient Spanish Monastery is a highly sought-after venue for weddings and other special events. Its unique historical setting provides a fairytale backdrop. TikTokInstagram

📸 📸 Photography

The best times for photography are during the 'golden hours' – early morning or late afternoon. The soft, warm light enhances the ancient stone and architectural details, creating a magical ambiance. TikTokInstagram

Generally, photography for personal use is allowed. However, for professional photoshoots, weddings, or commercial purposes, you may need to obtain special permits or adhere to specific guidelines. It's best to inquire with the venue beforehand. Reddit

The cloisters, the labyrinth, the ancient stone walls, and the archways are particularly photogenic. The intricate details of the architecture offer endless opportunities for stunning shots. InstagramReddit

Tripod usage might be restricted, especially during peak hours or for professional shoots. It's advisable to check the monastery's policy on photography equipment before your visit. TikTok

It's ideal for historical, architectural, romantic, and fine art photography. It's also a very popular location for wedding photography, engagement shoots, and even fashion photography. InstagramReddit

🎫 ❤️ Community & Cats

Yes, the Ancient Spanish Monastery is known to be a sanctuary for many stray cats. The staff and visitors often contribute to their care through donations. Reddit

You can support the cats by making a donation. There are usually donation boxes available, or you can inquire at the entrance about how to contribute to their food and care. Reddit

The monastery, originally built in Spain in the 1100s, was relocated to Florida. Over time, stray cats have found refuge within its peaceful grounds, and a community effort has emerged to care for them. InstagramReddit

Yes, it's quite common to see cats of various colors and sizes wandering through the monastery grounds. They are generally accustomed to visitors. Reddit

Visitors often describe the atmosphere as peaceful, serene, and having a special, timeless energy. It's a place that evokes a sense of history and tranquility. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Ancient Spanish Monastery offers a unique educational and visually engaging experience for families. Children can be fascinated by the ancient stones and the story of how the monastery was transported from Spain. The labyrinth provides a fun and interactive element, encouraging them to explore and navigate. Instagram

While the historical aspects might require some engaging storytelling, the sheer visual appeal of the architecture and the presence of the friendly stray cats can captivate younger visitors. It's a great opportunity to introduce children to history and architecture in a memorable setting. Remember to bring water and snacks, as exploring can be tiring under the Florida sun. Reddit

📸 Photographers and History Buffs

For photographers, the Ancient Spanish Monastery is a paradise. The cloisters, intricate stone carvings, and arches provide endless opportunities for stunning architectural shots. Visiting during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset will yield the most dramatic and beautiful lighting. TikTokInstagram

History enthusiasts will be captivated by the monastery's journey from 12th-century Spain to its reassembly in Miami. Learning about its past, the Cistercian monks, and William Randolph Hearst's role adds a rich layer to the visit. The oldest building in the Western Hemisphere status is a significant draw. InstagramReddit

💍 Couples and Event Planners

The Ancient Spanish Monastery is an exceptionally romantic and unique venue for weddings and special events. Its historical ambiance, beautiful gardens, and stunning architecture create an unforgettable setting for ceremonies and receptions. TikTokInstagram

Event planners will appreciate the distinctiveness of the location, offering clients a truly memorable experience. The monastery provides a fairytale backdrop that is both elegant and steeped in history, making it a top choice for those seeking an extraordinary celebration. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Journey Through Time: The Monastery's Origins

The Ancient Spanish Monastery is not just a building; it's a piece of history transported across the Atlantic. Originally constructed in Sacramenia, Spain, in the 1100s, it served as a home for Cistercian monks for over 700 years. Its original name was the Monastery of Saint Bernard of Clairvaux. The monastery's rich history took a dramatic turn during a social revolution in Spain, leading to its seizure and repurposing as a granary and stable. Instagram+1

In the early 20th century, American publisher William Randolph Hearst acquired the monastery. He envisioned bringing its ancient stones to the United States. The entire structure was meticulously dismantled, with over 3,500 tons of stone shipped stone by stone to Miami. It was then painstakingly reassembled in North Miami Beach, brick by brick, resembling a colossal 3D puzzle. This incredible feat of preservation and reconstruction makes it the oldest building in the Western Hemisphere. InstagramReddit

Today, the Ancient Spanish Monastery Foundation preserves this historical gem. It stands as a testament to medieval architecture and a unique cultural bridge between Spain and the United States. Visitors can explore its cloisters, gardens, and learn about its fascinating journey, experiencing a tangible connection to centuries past. TikTokInstagram

Weddings and Events: A Fairytale Setting

The Ancient Spanish Monastery is a dream venue for weddings and special events, offering a truly unique and romantic atmosphere. Its ancient architecture, serene gardens, and timeless charm create a fairytale backdrop that couples adore. TikTokInstagram

From intimate ceremonies to grand celebrations, the monastery provides a picturesque setting. The cloisters offer a breathtaking space for vows, while the surrounding grounds can accommodate receptions and other festivities. The historical significance and unique beauty of the location ensure an unforgettable experience for the couple and their guests. Reddit

Beyond weddings, the monastery also hosts various events, including cultural gatherings, photoshoots, and even religious services. Its versatility and stunning aesthetics make it a sought-after destination for those looking for an extraordinary venue. InstagramReddit

The Feline Residents: A Sanctuary of Compassion

A heartwarming aspect of the Ancient Spanish Monastery is its role as a sanctuary for numerous stray cats. These felines have found a peaceful refuge within the monastery's ancient walls and well-kept grounds, adding a unique charm to the visitor experience. Reddit

The monastery's staff and a dedicated community actively care for these cats, providing them with food and shelter. Visitors are often encouraged to contribute to this cause through donations, which directly support the well-being of the feline residents. This initiative highlights the compassionate spirit of the place and offers visitors a chance to make a positive impact. Reddit

Seeing the cats roam freely adds a special, almost domestic, touch to the historical site. It's a reminder of the monastery's ability to provide solace not only to humans seeking peace but also to animals in need. Reddit

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