Dominican convent
The Dominican Convent is an iconic place of prayer, reflection, and religious heritage in Guadeloupe. This sanctuary is occupied and managed by the nuns of the Carmelite Order of Basse-Terre, a community of monastic orders dedicated to prayer, silence, and service to the faith. A precious testament to the spiritual and communal commitment of the Caribbean islands, the convent attracts both the faithful and the curious in search of peace and meaning.
Presentation of the Dominican convent
The Dominican convent is strategically located in a quiet district of Basse-Terre, near the Notre-Dame Cathedral of Guadeloupe and several other religious landmarks. Accessible by car or public transportation, it is about 50 minutes from the Pôle Caraïbes Airport. Parking spaces are available for visitors, ensuring a convenient and comfortable experience. Founded in the 19th century, the Dominican convent is a historical and spiritual site where the nuns devote themselves to prayer, work, and community service. Its simple yet graceful architectural design reflects the values of modesty and devotion that define monastic life. The whitewashed walls and red-tiled roofs blend harmoniously with the surrounding tropical landscape.
The main building houses a chapel where daily masses and collective prayer times are held. The chapel, which can accommodate up to 150 people, features a carved wooden altar and stained glass windows depicting scenes from the life of Saint Thérèse, patron saint of missions. The carefully maintained gardens offer an outdoor meditation space where visitors can enjoy the serenity of the location. A stations of the cross path and a small oratory make it an ideal place for spiritual retreats or individual reflection.
Activities and points of interest
The Dominican convent offers several activities designed to nourish the mind and soul. Among them:
- Spiritual retreats : open to individuals and groups, these retreats offer an immersive experience of monastic life.
- Spirituality workshops : themed sessions on prayer, meditation, and exploring the Christian faith.
- Guided tours : organized tours to discover the history and spaces of the convent. Among the major events is the celebration of Saint Thérèse's feast, held each year in October. This celebration includes processions, special masses, and times of communal prayer, attracting many faithful from the region. During the Easter season, the convent also hosts special services marked by liturgical chants and collective moments of reflection. Nearby, the historic center of Basse-Terre offers many sightseeing opportunities, including the Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Saint-John Perse Museum, both less than 10 minutes away by car.
Our practical tips
The convent is open daily from 8 am to 6 pm. Entry is free, but donations are encouraged to support the nuns’ activities and site maintenance. Visitors are asked to respect the site's tranquility and to dress modestly. For those wishing to participate in a spiritual retreat, advance booking is required by contacting the Carmel of Basse-Terre directly. Most areas offer facilities adapted for persons with reduced mobility.
FAQ
1. Can I attend a mass at the Dominican convent ? Yes, masses are celebrated daily in the main chapel. 2. Are spiritual retreats open to everyone ? Yes, they are open to all, regardless of faith, with prior registration. 3. Is there an entrance fee to visit the convent ? No, entry is free, but donations are welcome. 4. When is the best time to visit the convent ? The convent can be visited year-round, but the most peaceful moments are usually during weekdays outside religious holidays.