What to Wear to the Descalzas Reales

Covering shoulders: the rule and why

The Descalzas Reales is a working enclosed convent. A community of Poor Clare nuns lives here. This is not a secular museum with tourist crowds. You must cover your shoulders. Tank tops, sleeveless dresses, and halter tops are not allowed. A t-shirt, a long-sleeve shirt, a shirt with cap sleeves, or a short-sleeve blouse — anything with sleeves — is fine. If you arrive in a tank top, the guard will ask you to put on a sweater or leave. This is not negotiable.

Hemlines and beachwear

Shorts should be knee-length or longer. Bikini bottoms, very short shorts, and beachwear are not appropriate. You do not need a full-length skirt; casual knee-length or longer shorts or a midi skirt are fine. Jeans and long pants are ideal. The rule is not about fashion; it is about respect for a working monastery.

Footwear

Wear comfortable walking shoes. The visit involves climbing stairs (the grand staircase with the fresco, then the upper floors), walking through rooms, and standing. Flip-flops and strappy sandals will hurt your feet. Trainers, walking shoes, casual loafers, or comfortable flat boots are all fine. The floors are smooth marble and tile, so even heeled shoes work, but you will be more comfortable in something flat.

In winter: layers

The rooms are cool, especially in winter. The monastery does not pump heat into the chapel and relicario like a museum would. Bring a cardigan or a light sweater. You will take it off once you warm up with the crowd, or you will wear it the whole time. In December and January, definitely bring a layer.

Frequently asked questions