The monastery was founded in 1313 by Sancho Sánchez de Velasco.
It houses the alabaster tomb of the founder, Sancho Sánchez de Velasco, and his wife, Doña Sancha.
The site contains a collection of ivory carvings that are considered among the finest in the region.
It has functioned continuously as a convent for over 700 years.
The interior includes a unique collection of colonial-era religious artifacts brought back from the Americas.
The Monastery of Santa Clara in Medina de Pomar is a 14th-century Clarissan convent founded by the Fernández de Velasco family. It serves as a significant funerary site for the Dukes of Frías and holds a distinct collection of religious art within its cloistered walls. The complex features a notable 16th-century gothic-style church housing elaborate altarpieces and funerary monuments. The museum area showcases sacred vestments, medieval sculpture, and ivory carvings. The site remains an active convent under the order of the Poor Clares. Its architecture reflects the transition from late Gothic to Renaissance styles.
The central cloister courtyard which provides a symmetrical view of the monastic architecture.
Inquire about purchasing artisanal sweets handmade by the cloistered nuns at the monastery turn.
Allow extra time to appreciate the detailed alabaster carvings on the funerary monuments in the church.
Ensure you visit the museum section, as it is separate from the main church area.
Do not attempt to enter private cloistered areas restricted for the residents; respect all signage indicating 'private' zones.
The museum and church areas often observe closure on Mondays and follow reduced visitation schedules during winter months.
Maintain a quiet, respectful tone throughout the complex; photography may be restricted in specific chapel or museum areas.
