Overview

Built in 1716 as a Franciscan cloister, this complex served as a hospital during the English invasions, and was later converted into a school. In 1928, the building was partially destroyed to make way for the expansion of the adjacent Recoleta Cemetery. Years later, it was again reborn as an asylum for over 800 homeless and elderly people, which it served as until 1978, when it was officially rezoned for use as a cultural center. The walls were fortified and painted in ochre and reddish tones, and the building was given new life. It now bustles with cultural and educational activities and even boasts offices of the United Nations. There is a small café, a gift shop and bookstore on the premises.