Our History

Learn more about our Boutique Hotel

A landmark monument to the Conquistador Age and one of the most historic hotels in Old San Juan Puerto Rico, Hotel El Convento in San Juan, Puerto Rico showcases a timeless aura of Old World charm and splendor. Befitting its origins as a Carmelite convent more than 370 years ago, our splendid Puerto Rico luxury hotel is a loving restoration of Spanish Colonial architecture and design. Select from 81 elegant rooms - each adorned with rich wooden beams, handcrafted tiles, carved chairs, velvet settees, and antique chests. Walk in the footsteps of world leaders and international celebrities at this world-class Old San Juan luxury hotel.

Long colonial hallway with yellow walls, black ceiling beams, potted plants, and outdoor seating area with tables and chairs.

Hotel El Convento 5th floor hallway

Hotel El Convento 5th floor hallway

Hotel El Convento 5th floor hallway

El Convento Hotel History in San Juan, Puerto Rico  

Celebrate more than 360 years of tradition at our luxury old San Juan hotel in Puerto Rico. As the first Carmelite Convent in the Americas, it housed the nuns for 252 years until closing a few days before Christmas in 1903. Vacant for a decade, the abandoned building served as a retail store, a dance hall, and, for the next 40 years, a flophouse without running water, sanitary facilities, or electricity. 

Opened on Jan. 27, 1962 as El Convento Hotel, it offered a tranquil, European-style alternative to the glitzy hotels lining the Condado strip. Since that time, we've maintained a high standard of luxury and style - constantly improving our amenities and recreational services.