The Monasterio de Santa Clara de Manila, officially known as the Real Monasterio de la Purisima Concepcion de Nuestra Madre Santa Clara de Manila, is a historical convent of the contemplative Order of Saint Clare that is open to the public for moments of prayer and reflection.
Founded in 1621 by Mother Jerónima de la Asunción, St. Claire Monastery holds the distinction of being the first contemplative community of nuns in Asia, with a long history deeply rooted in faith. A serene pilgrimage site in Metro Manila, it offers visitors a unique blend of Spanish-American architecture, rich history, and sacred traditions.
The monastery features a mission-style structure characterized by simple, austere walls, serene gardens, and a quiet, contemplative environment. The convent grounds are home to altars embellished with votive candles, frescoes depicting St. Clare and Saint Agnes of Assisi, as well as replicas of religious icons like the San Damiano Cross.
St. Clare’s shrine is particularly noted for its distinctive tradition of offering eggs to the Poor Clare sisters in exchange for prayers, especially for favorable weather during special occasions. Over time, this custom has evolved to include petitions for other intentions, which are written down and left in the wishing hall for the nuns to pray over.
The convent also gained literary significance, having been immortalized in Jose Rizal’s novel, Noli Me Tangere, as the place where the character Maria Clara sought refuge. For centuries, the nuns, who are bound by a vow of enclosure, lived in a way that kept them largely isolated from the outside world, earning the nunnery the nickname “living death”, as women who entered were seldom or never seen again by outsiders.
Originally constructed in Intramuros, St. Claire Monastery has endured several significant events throughout its history, including the British invasion of Manila in 1762, forcing the nuns to temporarily relocate for safety, and the bombings of World War II, which obliterated the original site.
Despite these disruptions, the community of nuns persevered, eventually relocating to Aurora Boulevard in Quezon City in 1950, and later compelled to move again to its current location in 1995 due to urban development projects, specifically the construction of Circumferential Road 5 or C-5, which comprise the fifth beltway of Metro Manila.
Today, St. Claire Monastery is open to the public where visitors can pray or attend mass, participate in traditional devotions, submit prayer petitions, have religious artifacts blessed, or simply appreciate the peaceful atmosphere. Mass is celebrated at 6:00 a.m. from Monday to Saturday, and at 6:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. on Sundays.
Often regarded as a sanctuary of solemnity, tranquility, and reflection, St. Clare is ideal for those seeking solace, a spiritual connection, and a reflective, enriching experience amidst the bustle of the city.