Convento de Santa Clara

The first records of the use of this structure date back to 1238, when it was established as a convent for nuns of the Saint Clare order. Subsequent additions from the 14th century on had covered much of the original structure and art, but restorations in the 1980s allowed older paintings to come to light. 

In 2019, the convent was abandoned by the order, due to, as the order put it, a lack of callings to become nuns. Because of the great value of its art and architecture, the convent was turned into a museum, which opened in 2020.  

It is now possible to visit the church, cloister, and two choirs.  It is particularly interesting because it provides the chance to see the ceiling wood panelling from very close, through a structure built for these purposes. This original panelling has been very well maintained (probably because it was covered in later centuries) and some say it shows the history of the union of the kingdoms of Castille and León. The oldest murals still visible on the walls date back to 1380. 

The "artesonado", a type of wooden ceiling cover typical of the Mudéjar architectural style of the region, dates back to the 14th century, and is intricately decorated. The complex also has a tower which can be climbed to enjoy wonderful views over Salamanca.