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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Ancient Spanish Monastery
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 900-year-old Spanish monastery, meticulously rebuilt in Miami, offering a glimpse into medieval history and a fairytale setting.
"It's a real-life fairytale setting with a thousand-year-old monastery just chilling in Miami."

📸 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.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Cloisters
Central Courtyard
Wander through these serene, ancient stone arches, a breathtaking architectural marvel.

The Labyrinth
Garden Area
Embark on a peaceful journey through this meditative maze, a unique spiritual experience.

The Monastery Architecture
Throughout the grounds
Marvel at the 900-year-old Spanish stones, meticulously reassembled into a stunning structure.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Photos
Donations Support the Sanctuary
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 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.
🚶♀️ Explore the Labyrinth
Find peace and quiet in the meditative labyrinth.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Florida heat can be intense; bring water, especially for exploring. :droplet:
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 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.
🚶♀️ Explore the Labyrinth
Find peace and quiet in the meditative labyrinth.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Florida heat can be intense; bring water, especially for exploring. :droplet:
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
Absolutely! The monastery is a popular spot for photoshoots, including weddings and engagement sessions, due to its stunning historical architecture and serene atmosphere.
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.
📸 📸 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 ❤️ 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.
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.
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.
Yes, it's quite common to see cats of various colors and sizes wandering through the monastery grounds. They are generally accustomed to visitors.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
📸 Photographers and History Buffs
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.
💍 Couples and Event Planners
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Time: The Monastery's Origins
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.
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.
Weddings and Events: A Fairytale Setting
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.
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.
The Feline Residents: A Sanctuary of Compassion
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.
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit