See & do · Landmarks & architecture
Ancient Spanish Monastery
Images provided by Google Places
Medieval monastery transported from Spain & rebuilt in the U.S. with Sunday mass, events & tours.via Google
A 12th-century Spanish monastery dismantled in Spain and reassembled in Florida in the 1950s.
- Good to know
- €€ admission, 1 hour needed.
Reviews from Google
This place is absolutely gorgeous! The pictures don't do it justice—you really have to see it in person to appreciate how beautiful it is. It's not a huge place, but that's part of its charm. There's a small museum near the ticket area that's worth checking out and provides some interesting background about the site. Outside, you'll find a lovely setting with palm trees, beautiful architecture, and several unique spots to explore. The chapel is especially charming and has a peaceful atmosphere. Even though the property isn't very large, there are plenty of great places to take photos. I was also pleasantly surprised by the restrooms—they were very clean and had their own unique character, which isn't something you notice everywhere. The person selling the tickets was incredibly friendly, welcoming, and able to speak multiple languages, making the experience even better for visitors from different countries. Overall, this is a beautiful and memorable place to visit. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, photography, or just looking for a peaceful place to explore, I would definitely recommend stopping by.
The Ancient Spanish Monastery — a truly extraordinary historical landmark. This is far more than a sightseeing spot — it’s a genuine journey through time. A 12th-century Spanish monastery standing in North Miami Beach feels almost surreal. From the moment you step inside, the architecture, arches, and peaceful courtyards create a rare sense of calm and timelessness. What makes this place especially remarkable is its story. The monastery was carefully dismantled stone by stone in Spain, shipped to the United States, and eventually reassembled decades later. Walking through it, you’re literally surrounded by centuries-old stones that have crossed the Atlantic and lived multiple lives. It’s an ideal place for quiet reflection, photography, weddings, or a slow, meaningful walk away from the city noise. One of the most unique and underrated historical sites in South Florida. Absolutely worth visiting — for both tourists and locals who want to experience a deeper, more unexpected side of Miami.
“The Ancient Spanish Monastery in Miami is an absolute hidden gem ✨ If you’re looking for a peaceful, beautiful place to relax and disconnect, this is it. The gardens are incredibly well maintained and stunning, and the monastery itself feels like stepping into a medieval castle. The architecture is breathtaking, and the history truly transports you back in time. Originally built in Spain between 1133 and 1141 AD, this monastery is over 900 years old and is considered the oldest building in the Western Hemisphere. It was later dismantled, shipped across the ocean, and reconstructed in Miami in the 1920s–1950s. Just knowing that makes the visit feel magical. Walking through this place feels surreal and unforgettable. If you love history, architecture, or simply peaceful and beautiful spaces, I highly recommend visiting. You’ll leave feeling inspired and refreshed. Don’t miss it!” 🏰🌿
The Ancient Spanish Monastery is a place that feels very different from most of what people usually associate with Miami. While many visitors focus on the beaches or the nightlife, this spot in North Miami offers a much quieter and more historic setting. I’ve been living in Miami for almost four years and have returned here a few times. Each visit feels a bit like stepping outside the city. The stone architecture, cloisters, and overall layout give it a very old-world atmosphere that you don’t really expect to find here. The gardens are probably my favorite part of the property. They’re peaceful and well kept, and it’s easy to spend time just walking around or sitting for a moment away from the usual Miami pace. Parking has always been easy in my experience with plenty of free spaces available, and the admission fee is fairly reasonable. If you enjoy architecture or quiet historic spaces, it’s an interesting place to spend some time. Judging by my camera roll after visiting, it’s also a place that lends itself well to photography.
An absolutely beautiful wedding venue with an ancient, timeless feel. The place is incredibly well kept, full of charm and history, and everything looked stunning from start to finish. The staff was amazing—professional, attentive, and genuinely helpful throughout the entire event. Truly a special location for an unforgettable celebration.