In the heart of Toledo, monasteries are unexpectedly becoming landlords. Ancient walls that once echoed with silence and prayer may soon fill with the voices of new residents. The reason is simple: survival. Religious communities are seeking ways to preserve their way of life and prevent unique buildings from falling into ruin. In an environment where tourist rentals are pushing out long-term housing, monasteries have decided to take action.
Two monasteries—Carmelitas Descalzos and Capuchinas de la Purísima Concepción—have already offered their vacant spaces for the creation of four small apartments, two in each building. This isn’t just a way to earn money; it’s about preserving historical heritage and supporting local residents who are finding it increasingly difficult to secure housing in the old city.
In search of balance
Life in a monastery is far from luxurious, and utility bills and unexpected costs—like a collapsed roof after a storm—only add to the challenges. The monks and nuns receive no help from the diocese and rely solely on their own resourcefulness. Opening their doors to tenants is a last resort, but also an opportunity for the city.
The municipal consortium and city hall are backing the project, as around 150 buildings stand empty in the historic center. Many of them are in a dilapidated state. Authorities have allocated 260,000 euros to restore spaces in two monasteries. The plans go beyond just these four apartments: if everything goes as intended, the number of new homes could rise to thirty. It all depends on the budget and whether the religious orders are willing to embrace change.
For locals, not for tourists
A key point: the apartments won’t become yet another set of tourist rentals. This is a fundamental requirement. The monasteries have pledged to uphold a ‘rental ethic’—housing will be offered only to those genuinely wanting to live in Toledo, not weekend visitors. Rental prices will be set by the orders themselves, as they own the buildings, which can’t be divided or sold due to their cultural heritage status.
Apartment sizes range from 37 to 60 square meters. Each features a private entrance, kitchen, bathroom, and either one or two bedrooms. Everything meets regulations: electricity, ventilation, and windows facing the street. No ‘micro-apartments’ here—these are full-sized homes for families and young people who want to stay in the city.
The city and the monasteries
For Toledo, this isn’t just a real estate issue. The old city is losing residents, and with them, its vibrancy and atmosphere. By opening up to new tenants, the monasteries are trying to halt this trend. They don’t want to become museums or hotels. It’s important for them to preserve their mission and help keep the city alive.
Fray Antonio of the Discalced Carmelites puts it bluntly: “We have to earn a living, or we won’t survive.” Other monks echo his sentiment. They see young people leaving because they can’t find affordable housing. Now, they have a chance to stay—and this isn’t just talk, but a tangible investment in Toledo’s future.
Challenges and hopes
Renovating the historic center is no simple task. Machinery can’t get in, so everything has to be done by hand. This can double or even triple the cost. But the monasteries are undeterred. They’re ready to invest so the buildings don’t crumble and the city retains its character.
The project is only just beginning, but it’s already drawing interest from other religious communities. If the experiment succeeds, more monasteries may join in. That could mean even more affordable apartments for locals and a new lease on life for Toledo’s historic buildings.
