Bienal de Pontevedra

The last building incorporated into the Museum of Pontevedra is the Santa Clara Convent. It is made up of a group of buildings and outdoor spaces, covering an area of more than 12,000 m² in the town centre. It comprises a church, a convent, a garden, an orchard and other small buildings.

Founded in 1271, it had been home to Poor Clare nuns until December 2021, when it was purchased by the Town Council of Pontevedra. Later on, in January 2023, the property was transferred to the Provincial Council of Pontevedra and then became part of the Museum of Pontevedra.

The Santa Clara Convent has changed over time. Some of its most outstanding architectural elements date back to the Middle Ages, such as the distinctive Gothic apse of the church, from 1362. During the 16th and 18th centuries, it was repeatedly altered and enlarged to give it the appearance it has today, although it has also undergone more recent renovations.

In the exterior of the church, particularly noteworthy are the Gothic-style pointed arches in the chevet, the representation of the last judgement in the archivolts of the entrance door, the baskets featuring animal and human figures, and the series of coats of arms of families that were linked to the convent. Inside, the main altarpiece, in the churrigueresque style, the tombs with human sculptures on both sides, the high and low choirs, and the baroque pipe organ stand out.

The Deputación de Pontevedra carried out an archaeological, historical and artistic study to delve into the history of the Convent. Accordingly, the project for restoring the entire property will be carried out. Besides the new uses that may be defined as a new building of the Museum, the Convent's orchard and gardens will be open to the public and the church used as an events hall.