圣伯纳迪诺·锡耶纳修道院：巴利亚多利德近郊的殖民时代方济各会遗存

J S

2026-07-02

We visited Convento de San Bernardino de Siena in Valladolid, Yucatán, and it was a beautiful and peaceful place to visit. The church is very impressive from both outside and inside. The architecture, arches, altar, old stone walls, and historic details make it feel very special. It is a good place for photos, quiet time, and learning about the history of Valladolid. The inside of the church was beautiful, with detailed artwork and a peaceful atmosphere. The outside area is also very nice, with the Valladolid sign and open green space in front of the convent. We also enjoyed locally made kulfi nearby. It was creamy, tasty, and vegetarian, and I would recommend people to try it if available. Overall, this is a must visit place in Valladolid. Very beautiful, historic, calm, and worth adding to your trip.

Klau Pao

2026-06-13

A beautiful step back in time This is a truly historical place, and you can feel it the moment you walk in. If you love history, this is a must-visit. A bit of background: The convent was founded by the Franciscan order around 1552, making it one of the oldest colonial complexes in Yucatán. It was built under the direction of Fray Juan de Mérida, and interestingly, the church was finished first (around 1560), while the convent took longer, completed around 1613. The person it's named after, Saint Bernardine of Siena, was an Italian Franciscan preacher born in 1380. He was known for his incredible eloquence and for promoting devotion to the Holy Name of Jesus (the IHS symbol you might recognize). He was canonized just six years after his death in 1444, which is remarkably fast for that time, faster than Juan Diego that’s for sure. Like many Spanish colonial structures, this convent was built on a site sacred to the Maya, specifically over the Cenote SisHa, a limestone cavern whose opening is still visible behind the convent (go way, way back in the yard and there is also like a swimming pool type of structure with blue clean water). The Franciscans became so powerful in the region that they clashed with Spanish landowners, and the convent was actually burned twice around 1562. Later, during the Caste War and other rebellions, the Maya repeatedly sacked it because they saw it as a symbol of colonial oppression. My visit and feedback: The building itself is amazingly well-preserved given its turbulent history. No AC, though (fans inside but off) so be prepared for that Yucatán humidity! It's really remarkable how much trust there is for visitors; everything is just placed there beautifully, like you've genuinely gone back in time. It was inexpensive, and they only take cash to enter. I believe it is still a functioning religious site; I saw people praying in the chapel and a woman confessing, so I think it remains active today. The location is in Valladolid, which is a beautiful historic town that will take your breath away. Lovely, lovely area… clean, safe, and peaceful. Highly recommend if you're in town!

Ernest Aguilar

2026-06-07

Beautiful stone structure from the 16th century that embodies the expansion of Catholicism into the Americas. It sits against a junglesque backdrop with a big courtyard in front. In the evenings they project the story of the town onto the buildings walls. This is also where you’ll find the towns letters. The road of the friars is worth seeing if you’re here

Poppy

2026-05-06

Peaceful garden with an interesting display about the excavation of Ziiz Ha cenote. The cenote itself is closed but you can still see the structure. Holds a photography exhibit and a quiet church as well. 40 Peso entrance really good value.

Cynthia P.

2026-01-13

--- Convento de San Bernardino de Siena is a stunning historical site that beautifully showcases Valladolid’s rich heritage. The architecture is impressive, with its centuries-old stone walls and serene courtyard creating a peaceful atmosphere. The convent offers a glimpse into the region’s colonial past, and the surrounding gardens add to its charm. It’s a perfect spot for history lovers and those seeking a quiet, picturesque place to explore. Don’t miss the evening light show that brings the history of the convent to life in a captivating way.