The former convent of Santo Domingo, founded in the 16th century by the Dominican order, is one of the main historical and patrimonial referents of San Cristóbal de la Laguna. Over time, this emblematic building has fulfilled various functions: convent, educational center, library, weather station, prison during the civil war and social dining room.
Its educational legacy is especially relevant, housing from 1539 grammar and Latinity teachings, the Literary University of San Fernando in 1821, and the Institute of Second Teaching of the Canary Islands in 1846, being an academic reference in the islands until well into the twentieth century.
The building has been modified over the centuries, highlighting interventions in 1926, the 50s, and an important restoration between 1993 and 1997. Its church, however, remains pending rehabilitation after a fire in 1964.
Among its most valuable elements is a Renaissance cloister of great beauty, with red stonework columns and wood structure, as well as chapels decorated with Italian inspiration murals. Declared well of cultural interest in 2008, the whole represents a space loaded with history and symbolism.
Today, this historic Enclave hosts the International Campus City of La Laguna, integrating contemporary knowledge with the cultural legacy of the city.
